Biological effects on ice-associated fauna

Studies investigating the biological impact resulting from the ‘Amoco Cadiz’ oil spill in Northern coast of France (>20 years ago) have demonstrated that amphipods population (Ampelisca sp.) have yet to fully recover. A potential explanation is that female amphipods carry young in a brood pouch until they hatch as fully developed immature specimens. Hence, pollutants affecting adults will also affect offspring.

Owing to the lack of studies addressing the long term effect of oil in ice on Gammarus wilkitzkii, we are investigating the long term biological effect of oil mixed in sea ice on the reproduction cycle of Gammarus wilkitzkii (adults, embryos and larvae) using a holistic approach to detect effects at the biochemical level, up to cellular and physiological levels.

Financed by the Norwegian Research Council: Project 164407 to IRIS-Akvamiljø, Long term effects on Arctic ecosystem from accidental discharges.

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