The ultrastructural localization of trace metals in the littorina littorea (L) (Gastropod:Prosobranchiata) collected from the tees estuary

Abstract

The ultrastructural organisation of the cytoplasmic granules in the stomach epithelium and ctenidium cel of Littorina littorea (L) is described. Tissues were compared from animals collected from polluted (Tees estuary) and clean sites (Cullercoats bay). The majority of granules are usually compartmentalised within membrane delineated vesicles. X-ray elemental microanalysis of these granules is also described. It has been shown that granules in the stomach epithelium have ligands which facilitate the binding of iron while ctenidium epithelial cells have ligands (possibly sulphur) responsible for binding copper.