Evaluating Sublethal Effects of Exposure to Petroleum Additives on Fishes Associated with Offshore Platforms

Publication Title: Evaluating Sublethal Effects of Exposure to Petroleum Additives on Fishes Associated with Offshore Platforms

Subject: Anthropogenic Properties; Fisheries and Aquaculture
Fish & Essential Fish Habitat; Water Quality
Sublethal Effects; Swimming Performance; Ethylene Glycol; Methanol; LC50; Gulf of Mexico

CSE Reference: Baltz DM, Chesney EJ (Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA). 2005. Evaluating sublethal effects of exposure to petroleum additives on fishes associated with offshore platforms. New Orleans (LA): US Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service. 4 p. Obligation No.: 1435-01-99-CA-30951-16802. Report No.: OCS Study MMS 2005-054. URL: https://espis.boem.gov/Technical%20Summaries/3273.pdf

Abstract: Recently, new technology has pushed petrochemical exploration into increasingly deeper water (>305 m) at increased risks to marine fauna. One risk is from chemical additives used to enhance deepwater production, such as ethylene glycol and methanol, which are used during the production and treatment of petroleum to prevent the formation of gas hydrates in deepwater wells and pipelines. Deepwater petroleum production requires that a number of additives, such as ethylene glycol and methanol, be transported and stored offshore in large quantities posing the risk of spills. Although these additives may not be highly toxic per se, it is important to evaluate and understand the risks to marine organisms, especially fishes that are often strongly associated with oil production facilities. The objectives were to provide an estimate of the 24-h LC50, to identify sublethal exposure levels from which individuals could apparently recover after short-term exposures expected in open marine systems, and to evaluate sublethal effects by comparing changes in individual swimming performance before and after exposure to ethylene glycol, methanol and their combination.