Effect of increasing salinity levels on the foraging behavior of Orconectes virilis in a controlled environment.

Abstract

The use of road salt during the winter has been known to cause salinity changes in freshwater bodies both near and far from the application site. Increased salinity levels are known to damage plants and animals in various ways. Crayfish rely heavily on their sense of smell for many daily activities, including foraging for food. To test the effect of salinity on crayfish foraging ability, crayfish were placed in tanks of varying salinity. There is a negative relationship between increasing salinity levels and the amount of food consumed by crayfish, suggesting that road salt pollution has the potential to disrupt freshwater ecosystems. To prevent further damage tot he environment, the EPA should regulate the amount of road salt that is applied and its distribution.