A variety of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), from naphthalene to high-molecular-weight PAHs such as benzo(a)pyrene, are found in the marine environment. Some PAHs are carcinogenic to marine organisms, and may be transferred to humans through seafood consumption. Recent studies found high levels of PAHs in sediments of southern Florida, and the pattern was correlated with toxicity in marine organisms. PAHs undergo photochemical and biological degradation once they enter the water system from atmospheric deposition, sediments, or run-off. Degradative processes may lead to either less or more toxic products and will influence the occurrence and fate of PAHs. These processes help determine the impact of PAHs in coastal waters, including the unique and endangered Everglades National Park ecosystem and the critical fisheries of this region.
The following are the main objectives of this research:
- Identify individual PAHs and their concentrations in South Florida waters.
- Measure PAH biodegradation rates and products
- Measure PAH photochemical degradation rates and products.
- Determine whether products of photodegradation are more or less labile to biodegradation.
- Use standard and molecular microbiological techniques to enumerate, isolate, identify, and characterize PAH-degrading bacteria.
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