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Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons

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Oceanography

Coastal Carolina University

Honors Theses

2010

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Rhizocephalan Parasites Of Mud Crabs In South Carolina Estuaries, Erin Burnette May 2010

Rhizocephalan Parasites Of Mud Crabs In South Carolina Estuaries, Erin Burnette

Honors Theses

Rhizocephalan parasites often infect commercially important crustacean species such as the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus). In this experiment, the prevalence of rhizocephalan parasites was determined by sampling mud crabs (Panopeus herbstii) in three different locations; Huntington Beach State Park, Waites Island, and Murrells Inlet. Crabs were determined to be parasitized by the presence of an externae extruding from their apron. Unparasitized crabs were also collected to serve as a control group. The externa were removed and DNA extractions were performed. Polymerase chain reactions (PCR) were done to prove whether the crabs were parasitized by Loxothylacus texanus or Loxothylacus panopaei. Results …


Preferential Fish Consumption Based On Omega-3 Fatty Acids And Mercury Concentrations For Maximum Health Benefits, Katrina Smith May 2010

Preferential Fish Consumption Based On Omega-3 Fatty Acids And Mercury Concentrations For Maximum Health Benefits, Katrina Smith

Honors Theses

The regular consumption of seafood offers a variety of protective effects, including the reduction of the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids in fish. These protective effects may be diminished by the contamination of seafood by mercury. Mercury increases the risk of cardiovascular problems and impedes neurological development. The objective of this project was to determine the fish species that are appropriate for consumption based on low levels of mercury and recommended intake levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Species that are high in omega-3s and low in mercury include salmon, trout and …