Abstract

This study investigates the microstructural integrity and elemental composition of the green-lipped mussel Perna viridis shells collected from Tangkak coastal waters, Johore, using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Although the region is graded as a relatively less polluted zone, comprehensive analyses revealed significant alterations in the shell microstructure and the presence of trace metals such as Tin (Sn), Antimony (Sb), and Iodine (I). The nacreous layer had disorganized wavy lamellar structures, suggesting disturbance of biomineralization most probably from extended period of exposure to the surrounding environment. SEM-EDS spectra indicated uniform detection of Sb and Sn at all locations investigated, suggesting diffuse pollution and industrial discharge as causal factors. The findings provide proof that mussel shells are not only passive biological archives of the stresses in the environment but also acted as sensitive biomonitoring material of new metal pollutants in coastal biota. The study emphasizes the significance of microanalytical techniques could be applied to environmental monitoring and instigates heighten biomonitoring efforts in areas hitherto deemed ecologically stable. Focusing on Tangkak, the study broadens our understanding of coastal pollution processes as well as affirms the role of P. viridis shells as biomonitoring materials in the surveillance of marine ecosystem health.

Keywords:Perna viridis; Sem-eds; Tangkak; Trace metals; Biomonitoring