The Impact Of Ascorbic Acid On The Bioaccumulation Of Zinc Sulphate In Freshwater Bivalve Lamelliden's Corrianus

Abstract

This study delves into the impact of ascorbate on the bioaccumulation of zinc sulphate in bivalves, such as clams and mussels. These bivalves are notorious for absorbing heavy metals from their surroundings, which can pose threats to ecosystem health and human consumption. Zinc sulphate, a prevalent industrial pollutant, can build up in bivalve tissues, potentially causing harm to both the bivalves themselves and organisms higher up in the food chain.

Ascorbate, also known as vitamin C, is renowned for its antioxidant properties and its ability to counteract heavy metal toxicity in various organisms. In this study, bivalves were exposed to zinc sulphate with and without the presence of ascorbate, and zinc tissue concentrations were measured. The results revealed that supplementing with ascorbate significantly decreased the bioaccumulation of zinc sulphate in bivalves compared to untreated controls. Additionally, ascorbate seemed to alleviate the oxidative stress caused by zinc exposure, indicating a protective role against heavy metal toxicity.

These findings emphasize the potential of ascorbate as a natural remedy for heavy metal pollution in aquatic environments. They also underscore the importance of further research into the mechanisms of action and ecological implications of ascorbate in combating heavy metal toxicity.