Settlement pattern of the larvae of Hydroides elegans (Polychaeta) in the presence of petroleum hydrocarbon compounds

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been recognised as the main toxic components of crude oil polluting the marine environment. The larvae of invertebrates, including polychaetes, are more susceptible to toxicants in the environment. The effect of different concentrations of water accommodated hydrocarbons on survival and settlement of Hydroides elegans (Haswell) was studied in the laboratory. A parallel study of the settlement pattern in the field was conducted using terra-cotta tiles. The dissolved / dispersed hydrocarbon concentration in the chosen area of Cochin harbour was monitored during the study period. The presence of PAHs in high concentrations was observed to have an adverse effect on the settlement of the larvae of Hydroides elegans.