Study on the effects of emamectin benzoate and ivermectin in sediments on juvenile American lobsters (Homarus americanus)

Description

A common approach to control infestations of sea lice on farmed Atlantic salmon involves the use of in-feed pharmaceutical products, such as emamectin benzoate and ivermectin, both of which persist in marine sediments. The effects of these products on non-target species such as the American lobster (Homarus americanus) has been studied in the past but not associated with lethal and sub-lethal effects from dosed sediment on which the juvenile lobsters live. New research is needed to determine chronic lethal and sublethal effects under realistic exposures.

The goal of this study was to assess the availability of two currently used sea lice treatments (active ingredients emamectin benzoate and ivermectin) and to measure acute mortality and sub-lethal effects on juvenile American lobsters following extended exposure to dosed sediment in a static bath with water renewal. The study will provide ecotoxicology data associated with the response of juvenile American lobsters when exposed to varying concentrations of emamectin benzoate and ivermectin dosed sediment using the commercial formulations.

Program Name

National Contaminants Advisory Group (NCAG)

Year(s)

2016 - 2017

Ecoregion(s)

Atlantic: Newfoundland and Labrador Shelves, Scotian Shelf, Gulf of St Lawrence

Principal Investigator(s)

Jason Bernier (Lead)
Manager, Environment and Planning
CBCL Limited

Chris Bridger
Manager Aquatic Services
Huntsman Marine Science Centre

Dr. Dounia Daoud
General Director
Homarus Inc.