Effects of exposure to lead on behavior of mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus L) larvae

Starting at the day of hatching, Fundulus heteroclitus L. larvae were exposed to 0, 0.1, 0.3, or 1.0 mg l(-1) Pb (as lead acetate). At weekly intervals they were tested for prey capture of Artemia, spontaneous activity, and swimming performance. Prey capture was significantly decreased only after 4 weeks of exposure when there was a significant elevation of miscues. A significant reduction in spontaneous activity was seen at 1, 3 and 4 weeks. A significant reduction in swimming performance was also seen at 1, 3 and 4 weeks. Larvae were tested at 2-3 weeks of age for predator avoidance, using grass shrimp (Palaemonetes pugio Holthuis) as the predator. Exposed larvae had increased susceptibility to shrimp predation. After 4 weeks of exposure, larvae were returned to clean sea water and testing continued for another 2-4 weeks of depuration. By 8 weeks, behaviors of previously exposed larvae were no longer statistically different from that of controls, and lead tissue levels had decreased. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.