The features of heavy metal accumulation in tissues of the two color variants of a sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix in summer-autumn period

Abstract

Variations in contents of Cd, Cu, Zn, Fe, Мn in body wall, gut and gonads of the two color variants (pink and orange) of a sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix were studied in July–September 2016. Most metals changed their levels during the observation period apparently in relation to Eupentacta fraudatrix spawning. The contents of metals varied dependently on the organ and color of a sea cucumber. Orange form of a sea cucumber was shown to be more protected against possible toxic effects of Cd compared to that of the pink form. Orange individuals were also able to maintain the level of essential metals at the appropriate level during spawning and to accumulate these metals in post-spawning period more effectively compared to the pink form.