Magnification of tributyl tin toxicity to oyster larvae by bioconcentration in biofilms of Shewanella colwelliana.

The toxic effects of dissolved versus bioconcentrated tributyl tin (TBT) on oyster larvae were compared. Water column TBT levels, which had no effect in solution, inhibited natural attachment and metamorphosis of oyster larvae on bottom surfaces due to bioconcentration by biofilms. This mechanism should be considered when evaluating heavy metal toxicity in the environment.