Application of a Novel Computer-Aided System to Monitor Cardiac Activity in a Mussel Undergoing Starfish Predation

Abstract

We explored a modified, computer-aided monitoring system for continuous, long-term recording of Bivalvia cardiac activity. To estimate the capabilities of this system, we used it to monitor the cardiac activity of a mussel (Mytilus edulis) under predation threat from a starfish (Asterias rubens). In addition, we used a web camera to track the behavioral responses of these animals. Compared to its state during normal feeding activity, the mussel’s heart rate showed no significant changes when the mussel was near the starfish. However, when the mussel was attacked by the starfish, its heart rate and contraction power (i.e., amplitude) increased and subsequently decreased down to the absence of any heartbeats within 2.5 hours. The results obtained in this study proved the usefulness of this new system as a stress-monitoring tool.