Abstract

MUNOZ, Daniel et al. Bacterial indicators in the mussels, perna perna (linné, 1758) and p. Viridis (linné, 1758) and in bivalve extraction waters, from the northern and southern coasts of Sucre State, Venezuela. Rev. Cient. (Maracaibo) [online]. 2008, vol.18, n.5, pp.595-606. ISSN 0798-2259.

The sanitary quality of the mussels, Perna perna and P. viridis, was evaluated, as well as that of the water in three zones of extraction in Sucre State, Venezuela. Twelve samplings were made between August 2003 and August 2004. In water samples, the total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) load were determined (MPN/100 ml), while in mussel samples a plate count of aerobial mesophils (AM), load of FC (MPN/g) and Escherichia coli were made, besides detection of Salmonella spp. In situ, the surface water temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen were measured. Waters from Bahía Iglesia and Punta Patilla met the criteria for TC and FC (according to the Venezuelan legislation and FDA-USA), but that from Ensenada La Chica during November and December did not, since the maximum values for these two groups were comparatively higher than the allowed limits. The bacterial counts of mussels from the former two areas met the microbiological criteria for commercialization, but those from Ensenada La Chica showed an elevated contamination, since FC and E. coli surpassed the value of 230 MPN/g (allowed limit). Only in one opportunity (March, 2004) at Bahía Iglesia there was high bacterial load in mussels (1.1x10⁴ MPN/g of FC and E. coli). Salmonella was only detected in Ensenada La Chica in October. No relationship was found between the physical and chemical variables and the evaluated bacterial loads. A periodical monitoring of water and mussels is recommended in order to have a correct classification and certification of the mussel extraction zones.

Keywords : Sanitary quality; mussels; fecal coliforms; Salmonella spp.

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