Effects of copper exposure on calcium, carbohydrate, and protein levels in the freshwater mussel Anodonta anatina

Exposure of the European freshwater mussel Anodonta anatina to Cu via water (0.3 mu mol L-1 Cu-63) or via food (Cu-63-loaded algae, equivalent to 0.06 mu mol L-1) for 24 days results in increased Ca concentrations in all body compartments, in time pattern and extent following the uptake of Cu. This is accompanied by decrease in protein and carbohydrate levels. During the subsequent 12 days of depuration, Cu is quickly eliminated and Ca, protein, and carbohydrate levels tend to normalize, although not fully back to controls.