Prawn VTG concentration was within the range reported for other crustaceans; LV values were positively
correlated with gonadosomatic index (GSI). Females at different vitellogenic stages were exposed
to a sub-lethal concentration of WSF for 7 days. Exposed animals with GSI > 7 increased their VTG and LV
titer as compared to control organisms (190% and 140%, respectively). VTG levels in M. borellii were
upregulated and highly sensitive to WSF exposure. This assay could be employed as a biomarker for
freshwater hydrocarbon pollution.