Tameka M. Parham |
SCHOOL: Alcorn State University
MAJOR: Biology/ Pre-Kinesiology MENTOR: Dr. Stephen D'Surney EXPECTED GRADUATION DATE: May, 2000 ORGANIZATIONS & HONORS:
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ABSTRACT
The Effects of Copper Sulfate on the Embryonic Development of Zebra Fish
Recent studies have demonstrated that copper sulfate (CuSo4), a salt, affects embryonic development and physiology of Danio rerio (zebra fish). Copper sulfate is a chemical salt that is commonly used in aquatic weed control products. Toxic metal pollutants have the ability to adversely affect aquatic vertebrates. Pollutants can directly increase their mortality rates and interfere with embryonic development. Zebra fish are a species of percoid (perch) with dark, longitudinal stripes. They are proficient egg layers and are easily nurtured and bred. Zebra fish simple maintenance and various feasible characteristics make them such great specimens for analysis.
Environmental toxins which exceed normal levels have the potential to
cause harm. Some of the various parameters of this experiment are
copper sulfate concentrations ranging from 0 to 1000 micrograms per liter
and embryonic developmental time intervals that will be sampled for mortality
and specific abnormalities in development. The basis for assessment
of risks presented by copper sulfate is provided by the dose-response relationship
(Walker et al, 1997). The intent of research is to ascertain the
relationship between the quantity of chemical to which an organism is exposed
and the specific consequent physiological effects.