중금속이 양서류의 발생과 수정에 미치는 영향

Abstract

The effects of heavy metals (mercury, lead, cadmium, copper and zinc) on fertility and development of the fertilized amphibian eggs were investigated. Amphibians were selected since their status is very important as a secondary consumer in the ecosystem. The results are as follows; a. Fatal concentrations of each heavy metal are Hg: 1 ppm, Pb: 5 ppm, Cd: 5 ppm, Cu: 10 ppm, and Zn: 100 ppm. Therefore, the strength of toxicity appeared to be Hg>Cd≧Pb>Cu>Zn. b. Fertilities of sperm suspensions which were treated with heavy metals for 10 minutes decreased in the order of Hg>Pb>Cu>Cd>Zn. c. Embryos developed in the solution of slightly lower than· the lethal point showed several unique characteristics. General syndromes of all heavy metals are short and bent axes, microcephaly, edema at the abdomen, rough skin, poor gill development and weak response to stimulus etc. Eventually they died at certain stages of development. However, there is no external abnormalities in the embryo raised in lower concentration. d. The above results can be used as a basic information for the conservation of the natural environment from pollution.