Sperm motility in the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is affected by nonylphenol

Nonylphenol, a widespread aquatic pollutant with endocrine-disrupting potential has been found to affect sperm motility in the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas (Thunberg). This marine invertebrate, a global aquaculturc species, was exposed to nonylphenol at concentrations of 1 and 100 mu g 1(-1) for a duration of 72 h during the period of gametogenesis. Growth was monitored at regular intervals until sexual maturity when sperm motility was assessed. The growth rate of C gigas remained unaffected by exposure to nonylphenol during gametogenesis. However, the number of individuals with motile sperm was significantly reduced. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.