Application of Caged Sparus aurata in Biomonitoring of the Boka Kotorska Bay (Montenegro)

In this study early signs of deterioration of the ecosystem in the Boka Kotorska Bay were assessed by applying an active biomonitoring approach for the first time in coastal area of Montenegro. Gilthead sea bream ( Sparus aurata ), commercially farmed in the Bay, was used as a bioindicator. Specimens were translocated from an aquaculture farm to more impacted sites within the Bay. After two weeks of exposure, the level of DNA damage was assessed in blood cells by comet assay and micronucleus test while muscle tissues were prepared for trace element determination. The results confirmed that an active biomonitoring approach is a valuable tool for eco/geno-toxicological assessment in the marine environment. Comet assay was sensitive in discrimination of the studied groups, moreover it was sensitive enough to detect stress related to the caging procedure and translocation of animals. Lack of feeding during the exposure period was reflected on the condition index. Based on the Integrated Biomarker Response (IBR), the group exposed at the main port - Porto Montenegro was shown to be under higher environmental stress than groups exposed at reference site Dobrota (IBM) and fish farm CogiMAR. An increase in the frequency of micronuclei was evident only at this site (Porto Montenegro). Obtained trace element concentrations in fish tissues were significantly lower in comparison to values recommended by the national legislative.