Effect of exposure to hydrocarbons on reproductive functions in select marine organisms

The partner organization, Oceans Ltd, offers diagnostic services to detect and monitor the effects of environmental contaminants on marine ecosystems, mainly using fish as biomonitoring tools. The company wishes to seize an opportunity for capacity building and diversification by exploring new bioindicator technologies based on the effects of hydrocarbons on the reproduction of marine invertebrates. The Mercier Laboratory will provide key expertise on the general biology and reproduction of marine invertebrates, which will be instrumental in exploring this avenue. The intern will use this knowledge to assist Oceans Ltd develop indicators of oil exposure that relate to reproductive functions in selected cold-water species. Specifically, the intern will be involved in carrying out the hydrocarbon exposures and subsequent biomarker analyses as part of his graduate (MSc) studies.

This research project was undertaken and completed with a grant from and the financial assistance of Petroleum Research Newfoundland & Labrador.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Annie Mercier

Student:

Matthew Osse

Partner:

Oceans Ltd.

Discipline:

Oceanography

Sector:

Fisheries and wildlife

University: