Effects of linear alkylbenzene sulphonate (LAS) on skeletal development of sea urchin embryos (Paracentrotus lividus Lmk).

Linear alkylbenzene sulphonate (LAS) acts on the zygotes of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, inducing total inhibition of skeletal development at concentrations higher than 0.45 ppm and a significant decrease at concentrations of 0.30 ppm. The effect of the surfactant is maximum at the end of gastrulation, when calcium uptake is very high, presumably related to the beginning of skeletal growth. This suggests that, in the environment, the sequestering action of LAS on calcium may significantly affect the availability of this ion for morphogenesis. Nevertheless, the experimental data presented in this paper suggest that the toxic action of LAS is also exerted at levels other than those involved in calcium uptake.