Effects of aromatic hydrocarbons and evaluation of oil toxicity modelling for larvae of a tropical coral

Application of oil toxicity modelling for assessing the risk of spills to coral reefs remains uncertain due to a lack of data for key tropical species and environmental conditions. In this study, larvae of the coral Acropora millepora were exposed to six aromatic hydrocarbons individually to generate critical target lipid body burdens (CTLBBs). Larval metamorphosis was inhibited by all six aromatic hydrocarbons, while larval survival was only affected at concentrations >2000 mu g L-1. The derived metamorphosis CTLBB of 9.7 mu mol g(-1 )octanol indicates larvae are more sensitive than adult corals, and places A. millepora larvae among the most sensitive organisms in the target lipid model (TLM) databases. Larvae were also more sensitive to anthracene and pyrene when co-exposed to ecologically relevant levels of ultraviolet radiation. The results suggest that the application of the phototoxic TLM would be protective of A. millepora larvae, provided adequate chemical and light data are available.

Automated summary

The application of oil toxicity modelling for coral reefs remains uncertain due to lack of data, but this study provides insights on the sensitivity of Acropora millepora larvae to aromatic hydrocarbons and UV radiation. The larvae exhibited inhibited metamorphosis and reduced survival when exposed to these compounds, highlighting their vulnerability compared to adult corals. The phototoxic TLM could potentially offer protection for A. millepora larvae, if sufficient chemical and light data are available.