Surabaya, September 28, 2023 – Clams, one of the capture fisheries commodities that have high economic value, also have an important role as bioindicators in assessing water quality. Research conducted in Surabaya’s East Coast, commonly known as PAMURBAYA, revealed the great potential of mussels, especially Anadara sp. mussels, in detecting the level of water pollution.

The clam’s habitat is usually at the bottom of the water, where they feed on microorganisms and the remains of organic matter. Because they are filter feeders, mussels can absorb harmful substances present in water, such as heavy metals. This makes them a natural indicator to assess the level of water pollution.

The observation method was used in this study to descriptively analyze mussels as bioindicators. The researchers sampled the mussels using the Garit tool, then brought the mussels to the laboratory in a coolbox. In the laboratory, the mussel meat was taken to analyze the content of heavy metals, such as Pb (lead), Cd (cadmium), Hg (mercury), Cu (copper), and Cr (chrome).

The results of this study can provide a clearer view of the water quality around PAMURBAYA and provide important information to stakeholders in an effort to maintain a healthy aquatic environment.

Clams are one of the capture fisheries commodities that have high economic value. Mussel habitats are generally at the bottom of the water and have eating habits by preying on particles in the form of microorganisms or residual organic matter (detritus). Because they are filter feeders, mussels are identical to animals that are used as bioindicators of polluted waters or not. The East Coast of Surabaya, commonly known as PAMURBAYA, is a potential area for clam fishing activities, especially Anadara sp. The observation method was used to analyze descriptively. Clams were taken using the Garit tool, then the clams were brought to the laboratory with a coolbox, after which the clam meat was taken to analyze the heavy metal content (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cu and Cr).

Author:

Kustiawan Tri Pursetyo, S.Pi, M.Si
Email: kustiawan@fpk.unair.ac.id
kustiawan@fpk.unair.ac.id