Evaluating the Bioaccumulation of Nickel and Vanadium and their effects on the Growth of Artemia urmiana and A. franciscana

Although there is growing evidence that metals can be toxic to various aquatic species, there is still insufficient knowledge to integrate this information in environmental risk assessment procedures. In this study, we have investigated bioaccumulation and effects of nickel and vanadium on mortality and growth of Artemia urmiana and Artemia franciscana. The in 24 h of A. urmiana and A. franciscana exposed to nickel and vanadium were 0.0072, 0.0114 mg/l and 0.0107 and 0.011 mg/l respectively. In growth experiments, the length of animals was considered as growth index. Results indicates that the mean length of animals in (0.001, 0.002 and 0.003 mg/l) Ni and V on first, 5th, 7th and 11th days of life significantly decreases in comparison with control groups (p<0.05).Bioaccumulation of Ni and V in the same concentration, after 24 h in nauplius and also in adults of A. urmiana and A. fransicana were statistically significantly higher than of the control groups (P < 0.05). Both species accumulate nickel and vanadium in their bodies. However A. urmiana is more resistant to the heavy metals. Results show, nickel is less toxic than vanadium on Artemia.