Abstract:
The present study elucidated the effects of species and geographical location on
the fatty acid profile and lipid indices of bivalves. Lipid profiles of venus clam (Marcia
opima) and blood cockles (Anadara granosa) harvested from Naruvilikulam and
Achchankulam situated on the northwest coast of Sri Lanka were determined, and lipid
indices were calculated. The dominant fatty acid group found in bivalves was saturated fatty
acids. Total n-3 and n-6 fatty acid contents were similar between the two species. Both
bivalve species were identified as potential sources of docosahexaenoic acid. Bivalves from
Naruvilikulam site had significantly abundant levels of linolenic and eicosapentaenoic acids
(0.83% and 5.69%, respectively). Thrombogenicity index was not influenced by species and
geographical location of bivalves. M. opima and bivalves from Naruvilikulam site were detected with lower atherogenicity indices and higher hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterole-mic ratios than their counterparts and, therefore, can be recommended for consumers interested in healthy food selection.
