Effects of Macrofauna on Nomomethyl Mercury Transport in Marine Coastal Sediments

Lead Pi: Janina Benoit · 3/2006 - 2/2008

Project Personnel: David Shull

MIT Sea Grant
Project number: 2006-R/RC-101
Strategic Focus Area: Healthy Coastal Ecosystems, Safe and Sustainable Seafood Supply
Boston Harbor monomethyl mercury bioturbation bioirrigation bioaccumulation flux

Globally, the greatest risk of human exposure to mercury comes from consuming contaminated fish. In this project, researchers are examining how macrofauna affects the transport of nonmethyl mercury in marine sediments. Among other benefits, this work is expected to help coastal managers understand how sewage discharges affect Boston Harbor.