Effects of soluble fractions of drilling fluids on development of crabs, Rhithropanopeus harrisii and Callinectes sapidus

The mud aqueous fraction (MAF) and suspended particulate phase (SPP) of low-density lignosulfonate type mud with uerrochrome added were nontoxic to larvae during the complete larval development of Rhithropanopeus harrisii. Five percent (5000 ppm, 0.5 % v/v mud in water) MAF and SPP were not toxic to Callinectes sapidus. Survival of C. sapidus larvae decreased as concentrations of MAF and SPP increased from 5 % (5000 ppm, 0.5 v/v mud in water) to 50% (50000 ppm, 5 % v/v mud in water). No larvae reached the 1st crab stage in 100% (100000 ppm, 10% v/v mud in water) MAF and SPP. Statistical analysis of the data on survival, mortality, and behavior are presented.