Growth variability and shell mineralogy of the Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) from Finnmark, Norway

Abstract

• While correlations between the SGI and environmental parameters were stronger before the Nickel smelter began operation in 1946 than after, there were still no significant relationships between interannual growth patterns and environmental conditions • Multivariate analysis of mineral ratios suggests a difference between preand post-1946 samples at one site • Preliminary results from fresh water pearl mussels collected from the Karpelva River do not reveal a strong sclerochronological proxy for environmental conditions even in the absence of pollution. • Shell mineralogy holds promise as a very long-term record of heavy metal concentrations in the environment