Physiological effects of suspended sediments on marine fish across habitat, development, and behavioral factors

This study evaluated the physiological responses of four marine fish species (Lateolabrax japonicus, Sebastes schlegelii, Platichthys stellatus, and Paralichthys olivaceus) to suspended sediments (SS) generated by marine sand mining. Using oxygen consumption rate (OCR), osmolality, and mortality as endpoints, the effects of SS concentrations ranging from 0 to 10,000 mg L⁻¹ were assessed. L. japonicus exhibited the highest sensitive in OCR, with an EC50 of 15,812 mg L⁻¹ responding more rapidly to SS exposure. In contrast, S. schlegelii demonstrated the highest mortality, with an LC50 of 340,921 mg L⁻¹. SS exposure caused diel variations in OCR across species, highlighting the necessity of accounting for such differences. Based on the results of this study and review, species sensitivity to SS is influenced by habitat type, activity patterns, and developmental stage, emphasizing the importance of incorporating species-specific traits to accurately evaluate the ecological impacts of SS on marine ecosystems.