Short communication Development of the in vivo chromosome aberration assay in oyster (Crassostrea gigas) embryo-larvae for genotoxicity assessment

Bioassay methods currently used to assess the toxicity of eZuents, transitional and marine waters measure endpoints such as larval immobilisation or mortality, however, they oVer limited data regarding important sub-lethal eVects, including genotoxicity. The metaphase chromosome aberration (CAb) assay is routinely used in mammalian systems for testing samples for genotoxicity. In the current study, an in vivo CAb test system has been developed and optimised for use with the early (embryo–larval) life stages of the PaciWc oyster Crassostrea gigas, a species used routinely in both eZuent hazard assessment and marine environmental monitoring programmes. The method was validated with two reference mutagens: Methylmethanesulfonate, a direct acting mutagen; and benzo[a]pyrene an indirect acting reference mutagen.