Obtaining action spectrum and biological weighting functions for UVR effects on larvae of a suite of Antarctic invertebrates, McMurdo Sound

Action spectrum for DNA damage is an essential component of understanding the effects of increased UVB on a range of Antarctic invertebrate larvae. The wavelength dependency is quantified using spectral weighting functions which provide information such as the target organelles/molecules of the UVR, the degree that organisms are influenced by wavelengths that are enhanced by the process of ozone depletion and the activity of sunscreening and anti-oxidant compounds.

Biological weighting functions (BWFs) were made for 3 embryonic stages of Sterechinus (eggs, blastula, 4 armed larvae) and embryos of Acodantaster, Perknaster and Parbolarsis. The embryos and larvae were exposed to artificial lights for 3 days. Three filter treatments with 50% nominal cut-off at 280, 305, 320, 375 and 400nm wavelengths were used.