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Biodégradation anaérobique des structures squelettiques en milieu marin: 2. Approche chimique = Anaerobic biodegradation of calcified skeletons in the marine environment: 2. Chemical approach
Simon, A.; Poulicek, M.; Machiroux, R.; Thorez, J. (1990). Biodégradation anaérobique des structures squelettiques en milieu marin: 2. Approche chimique = Anaerobic biodegradation of calcified skeletons in the marine environment: 2. Chemical approach. Cah. Biol. Mar. 31(3): 365-384
In: Cahiers de Biologie Marine. Station Biologique de Roscoff: Paris. ISSN 0007-9723; e-ISSN 2262-3094, more
Peer reviewed article  

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Keyword
    Marine/Coastal

Authors  Top 
  • Simon, A.
  • Poulicek, M., more
  • Machiroux, R.
  • Thorez, J.

Abstract
    The experimental approach of anaerobic biodegradation processes was undertaken in the Calvi Bay (Corsica) and in an aquarium. Three types of calcified skeletons were considered: isolated prismatic layer of Pinna nobilis (bivalvia) shell, nacreous layer of Nautilus pompilius (cephalopod) shell and stereom of Sphaerechinus granularis (echinoid) skeletal plates. The experimental material was embedded into organoclastic sand-filled closed jars retrieved periodically (1, 3, 6 or 9 months). I.C.P. and X-ray diffraction analysis, protein, chitin and enzymatic activity estimation showed that calcified skeleton biodegradation occurred very fast in anaerobiosis. Anoxic weathering was almost as fast as the aerobic one. Biodegradation patterns were very different from one type of calcified skeleton to another, caused by differences of organic matter distribution. In opposition to "classical" views, it is shown that anoxic biodegradation processes occur in very similar ways as oxic ones.

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