Lead Affects Learning by Hermissenda crassicornis

Several studies have provided evidence linking lead with lowered intelligence. In a study of the nudibranch mollusk Hermissenda crassicornis, exposure to natural seawater containing 4.76 mg/l lead acetate failed to elicit foot contraction in the presence of light, a conditioned stimulus. In contrast...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Biological bulletin (Lancaster) 1996-10, Vol.191 (2), p.260-261
Main Authors: Kuzirian, A. M., Child, F. M., Epstein, H. T., Smith, PJS, Tamse, C. T.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animal learning
Aquatic life
Lead
Lead (Metal)
Learning
Learning in animals
Marine biology
Mollusks
Neurology
Physiological aspects
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Summary:Several studies have provided evidence linking lead with lowered intelligence. In a study of the nudibranch mollusk Hermissenda crassicornis, exposure to natural seawater containing 4.76 mg/l lead acetate failed to elicit foot contraction in the presence of light, a conditioned stimulus. In contrast, controls and animals placed in natural seawater alone exhibited foot contraction or foot extension in response to light. These results indicate that lead suppresses learning by Hermissenda as shown by its failure to respond to the condition stimulus.
ISSN:0006-3185
1939-8697
DOI:10.1086/BBLv191n2p260