PROBING THE IMPACT OF TRIBUTYLTIN IN BOAT ANTIFOULING PAINTS ON CRABS

Abstract

Tributyltin (TBT), a toxic organotin compound formerly used in marine antifouling paints, remains a persistent environmental contaminant with profound effects on marine organisms. This study investigates the physiological, behavioral, and reproductive impacts of TBT on crab populations, which serve as sensitive bioindicators and play essential roles in coastal ecosystems.

Crabs were sampled from three Indian coastal sites with varying TBT exposure levels: Visakhapatnam Port (high), Mandovi Estuary (moderate), and Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary (low/control). In laboratory settings, the crabs were exposed to controlled TBT concentrations over four weeks. Physiological stress was evaluated through biochemical markers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and oxidative damage indicators like malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Histological examinations were performed on gill, hepatopancreas, and muscle tissues.