Assessment of the Impact of Oil and Heavy Metal Pollution in the Azov Sea on the Condition of the Neogobius Melanostomus (Pallas, 1814)

Abstract

This article presents the results of long-term monitoring of the oil pollution in the Azov Sea. Areas with long-term chronic pollution (Arabat and Kazantip bays) are identified. The Azov sea transport routes and the location of natural gas fields can be the reason of the oil pollution. In addition to chronic oil pollution, this area is contaminated with heavy metals in particular in bottom sediments. The biological indicator was chosen for a more accurate analysis - the condition of the bottom-dwelling fish Round goby (Neogobius melanostomus (Pallas, 1814). Comparison of the size-mass characteristics, biochemical indicators and morphophysiological parameters of Neogobius melanostomus in different years has shown a decrease in the quality of habitat conditions. This decrease may occur due to contamination of the territory with oil products and heavy metals.