Effects of sea water pollution on chicken embryos.

Organic matter and heavy metal contamination in sea water obstruct vital functions of chicken embryos and interrupt their growth. Histological examination of contaminated fetuses showed a menacing growth of abnormal protuberances in the lungs as well as highly impeded formation of capillaries, although the windpipes exhibited normal expansion. Compared with controls, liver tissue also showed retarded growth accompanied by decrease in liver weight. Consequently, vital metabolic functions were impaired, hydropsy and evisceration developed, and fetuses were deformed.