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Mercury, methylmercury and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in selected fish species and comparison of approaches to risk-benefit analysis. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 146:111788. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Riva-Murray K, Richter W, Roxanna Razavi N, Burns DA, Cleckner LB, Burton M, George SD, Freehafer D. Mercury in fish from streams and rivers in New York State: Spatial patterns, temporal changes, and environmental drivers. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 29:1686-1708. [PMID: 32440861 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-020-02225-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) concentrations in freshwater fish across the state of New York frequently exceed guidelines considered harmful to humans and wildlife, but statewide distribution and temporal changes are not well known for the state's streams and rivers. We analyzed existing data to describe recent spatial patterns, identify key environmental drivers, and assess temporal changes. Size classes within sportfishes and prey fishes formed 'functional taxa' (FT), and standardized scores were generated from 2007-2016 data for 218 sites. Muscle Hg in ≥1 sportfish FT exceeded human-health guidelines of 50 ng/g (sensitive populations) and 300 ng/g (general population, GP) at 93 and 56% of sites, respectively, but exceeded 1000 ng/g (a state threshold) at only 10% of sites. Whole-body Hg in ≥1 prey fish FT exceeded wildlife thresholds of 40 ng/g and 100 ng/g at 91 and 51% of sites, respectively. Environmental drivers of recent spatial patterns include extent of forest cover and storage, the latter an indicator of wetlands. Standardized Hg scores increased with increasing atmospheric Hg deposition and storage across rural 'upland' regions of New York. However, scores were not related to atmospheric deposition in more-developed 'lowland' regions due to the limited methylation potential of urban landscapes. Comparisons of 2010-2015 sportfish Hg concentrations with those of 1998 and 2000-2005 showed inconsistent temporal changes both among and within eight sites examined. Some recent stream and river fish Hg spatial patterns differed from those of lake-based studies, highlighting the importance of New York's flowing waters to future Hg monitoring and risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Riva-Murray
- U.S. Geological Survey, New York Water Science Center, Troy, NY, 12180, USA.
| | - Wayne Richter
- Division of Fish and Wildlife, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Albany, NY, 12233, USA
- Department of Biology, Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, USA
| | - N Roxanna Razavi
- Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
| | - Douglas A Burns
- U.S. Geological Survey, New York Water Science Center, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Lisa B Cleckner
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY, 14556, USA
| | - Mark Burton
- Biodiversity Research Institute, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Scott D George
- U.S. Geological Survey, New York Water Science Center, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Douglas Freehafer
- U.S. Geological Survey, New York Water Science Center, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
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53
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Biffi D, López-Mobilia A, Kelez S, Williams DA, Chumchal MM, Weinburgh M. Mislabelling and high mercury content hampers the efforts of market-based seafood initiatives in Peru. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20390. [PMID: 33230206 PMCID: PMC7683551 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77338-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Peru is experiencing a "gastronomic boom" that is increasing the demand for seafood. We investigated two implicit assumptions of two popular sustainable seafood consumer-based initiatives: (1) seafood is labelled correctly, and (2) the recommended species are healthy for consumers. We used DNA barcoding to determine the taxonomic identity of 449 seafood samples from markets and restaurants and analysed the concentration of total mercury (THg) in a sub-sample (271 samples) of these. We found that a third of seafood is mislabelled and that over a quarter of all samples had mercury levels above the upper limit recommended by the US EPA (300 ng/g ww). Additionally, 30% of samples were threatened and protected species. Mislabelling often occurred for economic reasons and the lack of unique common names. Mislabelled samples also had significantly higher mercury concentrations than correctly labelled samples. The "best choice" species compiled from two sustainable seafood guides had less mislabelling, and when identified correctly through DNA barcoding, had on average lower mercury than the other species. Nevertheless, some high mercury species are included in these lists. Mislabelling makes the efforts of seafood campaigns less effective as does the inclusion of threatened species and species high in mercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella Biffi
- Andrews Institute of Mathematics & Science Education, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, 76129, USA. .,ecOceánica, Lima, Peru.
| | | | | | - Dean A Williams
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Fort Worth, 76129, USA
| | - Matthew M Chumchal
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Fort Worth, 76129, USA
| | - Molly Weinburgh
- Andrews Institute of Mathematics & Science Education, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, 76129, USA
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54
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Zhang H, Guo C, Feng H, Shen Y, Wang Y, Zeng T, Song S. Total mercury, methylmercury, and selenium in aquatic products from coastal cities of China: Distribution characteristics and risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 739:140034. [PMID: 32758950 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study analyzed total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) and selenium (Se) in 114 aquatic product samples (representing 39 species) from eight coastal cities of China. The THg and MeHg levels in different parts of the same sample species were in the order of muscle ≥ skin/shell > roe, whereas Se levels were much higher in roe. Concentrations of THg, MeHg, and Se in the muscles were between 2.27-154, 0.36-135, and 57.8-1.20 × 103 ng g-1 wet weight (ww), respectively. Although significant differences in analyte concentrations were not observed among cities, they existed among three species; marine fish, freshwater fish, and shellfish. Shellfish had generally lower Hg content (mean: 20.2 ng g-1 ww THg, 6.71 ng g-1 ww MeHg, and 30.9% MeHg/THg ratio); however it had higher Se content (528 ng g-1 ww) than the other types of fish (mean: 33.3 ng g-1 ww THg, 28.2 ng g-1 ww MeHg, and 79.2% MeHg/THg ratio, 257 ng g-1 ww Se). In addition to species, the individual growth and HgSe interaction influenced Hg distribution. Evident correlations were observed between several individual body features and Hg content, and between Se and THg concentrations (p < 0.05). The greater correlation coefficient between two elements for fish indicated stronger HgSe antagonism through HgSe compound formation in fish. Relatively low THg daily intakes (mean 0.013-0.080 μg kg-1 day-1) and MeHg daily intakes (0.006-0.065 μg kg-1 day-1) along with Se:Hg molar ratios >1 and positive HBVSe values suggest that aquatic products from these sites will not pose immediate health problems to consumers. Fish was the dominating contributor for MeHg intake whereas shellfish was the dominating contributor for Se intake. To safeguard against mercury exposure, residents in these areas can appropriately increase shellfish intake (especially bivalves), rather than exclusively consuming marine fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Chenqi Guo
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Hongru Feng
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yanting Shen
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Yaotian Wang
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Tao Zeng
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Shuang Song
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China.
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55
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Giacomino A, Ruo Redda A, Caligiuri R, Inaudi P, Squadrone S, Abete MC, Abollino O, Morandi S, Conca E, Malandrino M. Development of an easy portable procedure for on-site determination of mercury and methylmercury. Food Chem 2020; 342:128347. [PMID: 33071191 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A portable measurement and speciation procedure for inorganic mercury (HgIN) and methylmercury (CH3Hg) was developed. A portable sample pretreatment was optimized to determine total mercury content. A new home-made sorbent (CYXAD, CHYPOS 101 modified Amberlite XAD), was prepared to separate HgIN and CH3Hg. Mercury species were determined using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SW-ASV) with a solid gold electrode (SGE) and using a portable potentiostat. A certified reference material, five freeze-dried samples and three fresh samples were analysed with conventional voltammetric analyzer, after dissolution of the samples in microwave oven, and with a portable potentiostat after the mild eating procedure. The results obtained by SW-ASV were compared with those obtained using Direct Mercury Analyser (DMA). The quantification with the portable method is comparable to that obtained with the DMA. Retention tests showed the selectivity of CYXAD for HgIN, its stability and the possibility to re-use the same aliquot of resin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Giacomino
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Andrea Ruo Redda
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Rocco Caligiuri
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Inaudi
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Stefania Squadrone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta (IZSPLV), 10100 Torino, Italy.
| | - Maria Cesarina Abete
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta (IZSPLV), 10100 Torino, Italy.
| | - Ornella Abollino
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Sara Morandi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Conca
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy.
| | - Mery Malandrino
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy.
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56
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Martyniuk MAC, Couture P, Tran L, Beaupré L, Power M. Seasonal variation of total mercury and condition indices of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) in Northern Québec, Canada. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 738:139450. [PMID: 32534279 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The winter ecology of anadromous Arctic charr, an important fish species for Indigenous populations, has remained poorly detailed in the literature beyond descriptions of seasonal fasting and resulting declines in condition. However, prolonged periods of reduced feeding can have significant consequences for other variables, such as tissue contaminant levels. To more thoroughly detail seasonal changes, biological information (fork length, total weight, age, sex, somatic condition), stable isotopes (δ13C, % carbon, δ15N, % nitrogen), dorsal muscle % lipid, caloric densities, and total mercury (THg) concentrations were assessed in anadromous Arctic charr collected from Deception Bay, Canada, during the summer and over-wintering periods. Significant reductions in somatic condition, total weight, and % nitrogen, consistent with prolonged periods of fasting, were found for post-winter captured Arctic charr, but % lipid and caloric densities were significantly higher in these fish. THg also varied seasonally and was significantly higher in summer collected tissue. When tested individually via linear regression, significant relationships were seasonally dependent, but limited in number. All previously mentioned parameters were then incorporated into multi-variable models which better explained variations in the data. While there was no clear best model for explaining the % lipid values, caloric densities, and THg, season, condition, and stable isotope values (% carbon and % nitrogen) were the best indicators of % lipid content and caloric densities. THg concentrations were best explained by total weight, somatic condition, and δ13C. Seasonal variation in fish condition measures and THg may be indicative of condition selective mortality that yields apparent improvement through the disproportionate removal of poorer conditioned fish from the population during the over-wintering period. This hypothesis was further supported by mortality estimates and the results of the multi-predictor variable models. Collectively, this research highlights the importance of understanding seasonal dynamics for anadromous Arctic charr populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrice Couture
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique - Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 Rue de la Couronne, Québec, Canada, G1K 9A9
| | - Lilian Tran
- Nunavik Research Centre - Makivik Corporation, P.O. Box 179, Kuujjuaq, Québec, Canada, J0M 1C0
| | - Laurie Beaupré
- Makivik Corporation, 1111 Boulevard Dr. Frederik-Philips, Saint-Laurent, Québec, Canada, H4M 2X6
| | - Michael Power
- University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3G1
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57
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Wang X, Wang WX. Determination of the Low Hg Accumulation in Rabbitfish ( Siganus canaliculatus) by Various Elimination Pathways: Simulation by a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:7440-7449. [PMID: 32408739 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) in fish poses a great threat to human health. Consumption of low-Hg-level fish species (e.g., rabbitfish, Siganus canaliculatus) could be one possible solution to balance the nutrient benefits and Hg exposure. However, the underlying mechanisms for the low Hg accumulation in rabbitfish remain unclear. This study quantitatively described the disposition of inorganic Hg(II) and methylmercury (MeHg) in rabbitfish under different exposure routes by constructing a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model. The results strongly suggested that effective elimination (estimated rate constant of 0.060, 0.065, and 0.020 d-1 for waterborne Hg(II)-, dietary Hg(II)-, and MeHg-exposed fish, respectively) was the main reason for the low Hg accumulation in rabbitfish. By quantifying the possible pathways for Hg elimination, our study revealed that biliary coupled with fecal excretion played an important role in the elimination of dietary Hg. Although the biliary excretion rate for MeHg was remarkable (6.8 ± 2.2 d-1) and the excreted amount per day could reach up to 790 ng, most of the MeHg in the bile was reabsorbed by the intestine and transferred back to the liver through enterohepatic circulation, leading to a prolonged retention time in the fish body. Moreover, branchial excretion dominated the Hg(II) elimination following aqueous exposure, suggesting a flexible alteration on elimination pathways against different exposure scenarios. The present study provided important understanding of the unique strategies adopted by rabbitfish to maintain the low Hg levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Wang
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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58
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Rodriguez CAB, de Lacerda LD, Bezerra MF, Moura VL, de Rezende CE, Bastos WR. Influence of size on total mercury (THg), methyl mercury (MeHg), and stable isotopes of N and C in green turtles (Chelonia mydas) from NE Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:20527-20537. [PMID: 32242319 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08623-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The green turtle (Chelonia mydas) is known to present an herbivorous diet as an adult; however, juveniles may have an omnivore habit, and these changes in food preference may affect the uptake and accumulation of pollutants, such as mercury (Hg). In order to better understand the influence of this ontogenetic shift on Hg accumulation, this study evaluates the concentrations of total mercury (THg), methyl mercury (MeHg), and stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen (δ13C and δ15N) in a group of juveniles of the green turtle. Tissue samples (liver, kidney, muscle, and scutes) were sampled from 47 turtles stranded dead on the coast of Bahia, NE, Brazil, between 2009 and 2013. The turtles analyzed showed a size range of 24.9-62.0 cm and an average of 36.4 ± 7.2 cm of curved carapace length. The scutes showed to be a viable method for Hg monitoring in the green turtles. The concentrations of THg and MeHg decreased with increasing size. The isotope values of δ15N and δ13C did not show a clear relationship with the size, suggesting that the green turtles used in our work would be occupying similar trophic levels, and foraging habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Augusto Barrios Rodriguez
- Laboratório de Biogeoquímica Costeira, Instituto de Ciências do Mar, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Av. Abolição, 3207, Fortaleza, CE, 60165-081, Brazil.
| | - Luiz Drude de Lacerda
- Laboratório de Biogeoquímica Costeira, Instituto de Ciências do Mar, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Av. Abolição, 3207, Fortaleza, CE, 60165-081, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Lacerda Moura
- Laboratório de Biogeoquímica Costeira, Instituto de Ciências do Mar, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Av. Abolição, 3207, Fortaleza, CE, 60165-081, Brazil
| | - Carlos Eduardo de Rezende
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade estadual do Norte Fluminense, Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque California, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Wanderley Rodrigues Bastos
- Regional Development and Environment Postgraduate Program, Environmental Biogeochemistry Laboratory Wolfgang C. Pfeiffer, Rondônia Federal University, Av. Pres. Dutra, 2967, Olaria, Porto Velho, RO, 76801-059, Brazil
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59
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Willacker JJ, Eagles-Smith CA, Blazer VS. Mercury bioaccumulation in freshwater fishes of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 29:459-484. [PMID: 32239332 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-020-02193-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Chemical contaminants are a threat to the Chesapeake Bay watershed, with mercury (Hg) among the most prevalent causes of impairment. Despite this, large-scale patterns of Hg concentrations, and the potential risks to fish, wildlife, and humans across the watershed, are poorly understood. We compiled fish Hg data from state monitoring programs and recent research efforts to address this knowledge gap and provide a comprehensive assessment of fish Hg concentrations in the watershed's freshwater habitats. The resulting dataset consisted of nearly 8000 total Hg (THg) concentrations from 600 locations. Across the watershed, fish THg concentrations spanned a 44-fold range, with mean concentrations varying by 2.6- and 8.8-fold among major sub-watersheds and individual 8-digit hydrological units, respectively. Although, mean THg concentrations tended to be moderate, fish frequently exceeded benchmarks for potential adverse health effects, with 45, 48, and 36% of all samples exceeding benchmarks for human, avian piscivore, and fish risk, respectively. Importantly, the percentage of fish exceeding these benchmarks was not uniform among species or locations. The variation in fish THg concentrations among species and sites highlights the roles of waterbody, landscape, and ecological processes in shaping broad patterns in Hg risk across the watershed. We outline an integrated Hg monitoring program that could identify key factors influencing Hg concentrations across the watershed and facilitate the implementation of management strategies to mitigate the risks posed by Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Willacker
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
| | - Vicki S Blazer
- U.S. Geological Survey, Leetown Science Center, National Fish Health Research Laboratory, 11649 Leetown Road, Kearneysville, WV, 25430, USA
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60
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Lescord GL, Johnston TA, Heerschap MJ, Keller WB, Southee FM, O'Connor CM, Dyer RD, Branfireun BA, Gunn JM. Arsenic, chromium, and other elements of concern in fish from remote boreal lakes and rivers: Drivers of variation and implications for subsistence consumption. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 259:113878. [PMID: 32032983 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Eating fish provides numerous health benefits, but it is also a dominant pathway for human exposure to contaminants. Many studies have examined mercury (Hg) accumulation in fish, but fewer have considered other elements, such as arsenic (As) and chromium (Cr). Recently, freshwater fish from several pristine boreal systems across northern Ontario, Canada, have been reported with elevated concentrations of As and Cr for reasons that are not well understood. Our goal was to investigate the ecological and environmental influences over concentrations of As, Cr, and other elements in these fish to better understand what affects metal uptake and the risk to consumers. We measured 10 elements (including As, Cr, Hg) as well as carbon (δ13C), nitrogen (δ15N), and sulfur (δ34S) stable isotopes in 388 fish from 25 lake and river sites across this remote region. These data were used to determine the effect of: 1) trophic ecology; and 2) watershed geology on piscine elemental content. Overall, most element concentrations were low, often below provincial advisory benchmarks (ABs). However, traces of Hg, As, Cr, and selenium (Se) were detected in most fish. Based on their exceedance of their respective ABs, the most restrictive elements on fish consumption in these boreal systems were Hg > As > Cr. Arsenic and Se, but not Cr concentrations were related to fish size and trophic ecology (inferred from δ13C and δ15N), suggesting bioaccumulation of the former elements. Fish with enriched δ34S values, suggestive of anadromous behaviour, had marginally lower Hg but higher Se concentrations. Modeling results suggested a strong effect of site-specific factors, though we found weak trends between piscine elemental content and geological features (e.g., mafic intrusions), potentially due to the broad spatial scale of this study. Results from this study address gaps in our understanding of As and Cr bioaccumulation and will help to inform fish consumption guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen L Lescord
- Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, Vale Living with Lakes Centre, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada; Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, Thunder Bay, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Thomas A Johnston
- Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, Vale Living with Lakes Centre, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada; Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew J Heerschap
- Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, Vale Living with Lakes Centre, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada; Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - W Bill Keller
- Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, Vale Living with Lakes Centre, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - F Meg Southee
- Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, Thunder Bay, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Richard D Dyer
- Earth Resources and Geoscience Mapping Section, Ontario Geological Survey, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Brian A Branfireun
- Department of Biology and Centre for Environment & Sustainability, University of Western Ontario, London ON, Canada
| | - John M Gunn
- Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, Vale Living with Lakes Centre, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
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61
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Chételat J, Ackerman JT, Eagles-Smith CA, Hebert CE. Methylmercury exposure in wildlife: A review of the ecological and physiological processes affecting contaminant concentrations and their interpretation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 711:135117. [PMID: 31831233 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) can result in detrimental health effects in wildlife. With advances in ecological indicators and analytical techniques for measurement of MeHg in a variety of tissues, numerous processes have been identified that can influence MeHg concentrations in wildlife. This review presents a synthesis of theoretical principals and applied information for measuring MeHg exposure and interpreting MeHg concentrations in wildlife. Mercury concentrations in wildlife are the net result of ecological processes influencing dietary exposure combined with physiological processes that regulate assimilation, transformation, and elimination. Therefore, consideration of both physiological and ecological processes should be integrated when formulating biomonitoring strategies. Ecological indicators, particularly stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur, compound-specific stable isotopes, and fatty acids, can be effective tools to evaluate dietary MeHg exposure. Animal species differ in their physiological capacity for MeHg elimination, and animal tissues can be inert or physiologically active, act as sites of storage, transformation, or excretion of MeHg, and vary in the timing of MeHg exposure they represent. Biological influences such as age, sex, maternal transfer, and growth or fasting are also relevant for interpretation of tissue MeHg concentrations. Wildlife tissues that represent current or near-term bioaccumulation and in which MeHg is the predominant mercury species (such as blood and eggs) are most effective for biomonitoring ecosystems and understanding landscape drivers of MeHg exposure. Further research is suggested to critically evaluate the use of keratinized external tissues to measure MeHg bioaccumulation, particularly for less-well studied wildlife such as reptiles and terrestrial mammals. Suggested methods are provided to effectively use wildlife for quantifying patterns and drivers of MeHg bioaccumulation over time and space, as well as for assessing the potential risk and toxicological effects of MeHg on wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Chételat
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA 95620, United States
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Craig E Hebert
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada
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Eckley CS, Gilmour CC, Janssen S, Luxton TP, Randall PM, Whalin L, Austin C. The assessment and remediation of mercury contaminated sites: A review of current approaches. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 707:136031. [PMID: 31869604 PMCID: PMC6980986 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.136031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Remediation of mercury (Hg) contaminated sites has long relied on traditional approaches, such as removal and containment/capping. Here we review contemporary practices in the assessment and remediation of industrial-scale Hg contaminated sites and discuss recent advances. Significant improvements have been made in site assessment, including the use of XRF to rapidly identify the spatial extent of contamination, Hg stable isotope fractionation to identify sources and transformation processes, and solid-phase characterization (XAFS) to evaluate Hg forms. The understanding of Hg bioavailability for methylation has been improved by methods such as sequential chemical extractions and porewater measurements, including the use of diffuse gradient in thin-film (DGT) samplers. These approaches have shown varying success in identifying bioavailable Hg fractions and further study and field applications are needed. The downstream accumulation of methylmercury (MeHg) in biota is a concern at many contaminated sites. Identifying the variables limiting/controlling MeHg production-such as bioavailable inorganic Hg, organic carbon, and/or terminal electron acceptors (e.g. sulfate, iron) is critical. Mercury can be released from contaminated sites to the air and water, both of which are influenced by meteorological and hydrological conditions. Mercury mobilized from contaminated sites is predominantly bound to particles, highly correlated with total sediment solids (TSS), and elevated during stormflow. Remediation techniques to address Hg contamination can include the removal or containment of Hg contaminated materials, the application of amendments to reduce mobility and bioavailability, landscape/waterbody manipulations to reduce MeHg production, and food web manipulations through stocking or extirpation to reduce MeHg accumulated in desired species. These approaches often rely on knowledge of the Hg forms/speciation at the site, and utilize physical, chemical, thermal and biological methods to achieve remediation goals. Overall, the complexity of Hg cycling allows many different opportunities to reduce/mitigate impacts, which creates flexibility in determining suitable and logistically feasible remedies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris S Eckley
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region-10, 1200 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, USA.
| | - Cynthia C Gilmour
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, 647 Contees Wharf Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037-0028, USA.
| | - Sarah Janssen
- USGS Upper Midwest Water Science Center, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI 53562, USA.
| | - Todd P Luxton
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Risk Management Research Laboratory, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA.
| | - Paul M Randall
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Lindsay Whalin
- San Francisco Bay Water Board, 1515 Clay St., Ste. 1400, Oakland, CA 94612, USA.
| | - Carrie Austin
- San Francisco Bay Water Board, 1515 Clay St., Ste. 1400, Oakland, CA 94612, USA.
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63
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Rosera TJ, Janssen SE, Tate MT, Lepak RF, Ogorek JM, DeWild JF, Babiarz CL, Krabbenhoft DP, Hurley JP. Isolation of methylmercury using distillation and anion-exchange chromatography for isotopic analyses in natural matrices. Anal Bioanal Chem 2019; 412:681-690. [PMID: 31834449 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-019-02277-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The development of mercury (Hg) stable isotope measurements has enhanced the study of Hg sources and transformations in the environment. As a result of the mixing of inorganic Hg (iHg) and methylmercury (MeHg) species within organisms of the aquatic food web, understanding species-specific Hg stable isotopic compositions is of significant importance. The lack of MeHg isotope measurements is due to the analytical difficulty in the separation of the MeHg from the total Hg pool, with only a few methods having been tested over the past decade with varying degrees of success, and only a handful of environmentally relevant measurements. Here, we present a novel anion-exchange resin separation method using AG 1-X4 that further isolates MeHg from the sample matrix, following a distillation pretreatment, in order to obtain ambient MeHg stable isotopic compositions. This method avoids the use of organic reagents, does not require complex instrumentation, and is applicable across matrices. Separation tests across sediment, water, and biotic matrices showed acceptable recoveries (98 ± 5%, n = 54) and reproducible δ202Hg isotope results (2 SDs ≤ 0.15‰) down to 5 ng of MeHg. The measured MeHg pools in natural matrices, such as plankton and sediments, showed large deviations from the non-speciated total Hg measurement, indicating that there is an important isotopic shift during methylation that is not recorded by typical measurements, but is vital in order to assess sources of Hg during bioaccumulation. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tylor J Rosera
- Environmental Chemistry and Technology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.,Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA
| | - Sarah E Janssen
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA.
| | - Michael T Tate
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA
| | - Ryan F Lepak
- Environmental Chemistry and Technology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Jacob M Ogorek
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA
| | - John F DeWild
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA
| | - Christopher L Babiarz
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA
| | - David P Krabbenhoft
- Upper Midwest Water Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI, 53562, USA
| | - James P Hurley
- Environmental Chemistry and Technology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.,Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.,University of Wisconsin Aquatic Sciences Center, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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64
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Jitaru P, Ingenbleek L, Marchond N, Laurent C, Adegboye A, Hossou SE, Koné AZ, Oyedele AD, Kisito CSKJ, Dembélé YK, Eyangoh S, Verger P, Le Bizec B, Leblanc JC, Guérin T. Occurrence of 30 trace elements in foods from a multi-centre Sub-Saharan Africa Total Diet Study: Focus on Al, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 133:105197. [PMID: 31675565 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports occurrence data related to 30 trace elements in food composite samples from a multi-regional Sub-Saharan Africa Total Diet Study. Herein, 2700 samples grouped in 225 food composite samples corresponding to 13 food groups: cereals, tubers, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts/seeds, meat, eggs, fish, milk/dairy, oil/fats, and beverages from eight locations in four countries, namely Benin (Littoral/Borgou), Cameroon (Duala/North), Mali (Bamako/Sikasso), and Nigeria (Lagos/Kano) were prepared as consumed, pooled, and analysed using a validated method based on inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The occurrence data for Al, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb as regulated by the Codex Alimentarius are discussed herein. Although the levels of As, Cd, Hg, and Pb were above the limit of quantification, they were below the maximum limits set by the Codex in most samples analysed. A distinct feature was observed for cereals and tubers, as they were mostly contaminated with Al and Pb. A pilot study regarding the impact of using artisanal cookware (made from recycled aluminium) on the contamination of food samples was performed. Relevant contamination with Al and Pb when cooking tomato samples from Cameroon and Nigeria using artisanal aluminium cookware was compared to that when cooked using stainless-steel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petru Jitaru
- Université Paris-Est, Anses, Laboratory for Food Safety, F-94701 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Luc Ingenbleek
- Centre Pasteur du Cameroun (CPC), Yaoundé, Cameroon; LABERCA, ONIRIS/INRA, Nantes, France
| | - Nathalie Marchond
- Université Paris-Est, Anses, Laboratory for Food Safety, F-94701 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Clémence Laurent
- Université Paris-Est, Anses, Laboratory for Food Safety, F-94701 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Abimbola Adegboye
- National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - Abdoulaye Zié Koné
- Agence Nationale pour la Sécurité Sanitaire des Aliments (ANSSA), Bamako, Mali
| | | | | | | | - Sara Eyangoh
- Centre Pasteur du Cameroun (CPC), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Thierry Guérin
- Université Paris-Est, Anses, Laboratory for Food Safety, F-94701 Maisons-Alfort, France
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65
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Mercury Bioaccumulation in Lacustrine Fish Populations Along a Climatic Gradient in Northern Ontario, Canada. Ecosystems 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10021-019-00464-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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66
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Khadra M, Planas D, Brodeur P, Amyot M. Mercury and selenium distribution in key tissues and early life stages of Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 254:112963. [PMID: 31377336 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.112963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Whereas early life stages are usually considered as particularly sensitive to both organic and inorganic contaminants, field studies assessing contaminant bioaccumulation in these stages are scarce. Selenium (Se) is thought to counteract Hg toxic effects when it is found at Se:Hg molar ratios above 1. However, the variation of this ratio in key fish tissues of different early life stages is mostly unknown. The present study therefore aimed to assess Hg and Se content in gravid female tissues (gonads, muscle, liver, gut, and brain) and different life stages (egg masses, newly hatched larvae (NHL), larvae and juvenile) of Yellow Perch (YP) in a large fluvial lake (Lake Saint-Pierre, Québec, Canada). Se:Hg molar ratios were measured for each compartment in order to fill associated knowledge gaps. Total Hg (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentration varied between tissue according to the following trend: Muscle > Liver > Gut > Brain > Gonads. During YP early life stages, MeHg values increased according to an ontogenetic pattern (mg/kg dw) (mean ± SEM): Egg masses (0.01 ± 0.002) < NHL (0.015 ± 0.001) < Larvae (0.14 ± 0.01) < Juveniles (0.18 ± 0.01). Se concentrations in different YP tissues showed the following trend (mg/kg dw) (mean ± SEM): Gut (3.6 ± 0.1) > Liver (2.5 ± 0.1) > Gonads (1.92 ± 0.06) > Brain (1.26 ± 0.03) > Muscle (1.23 ± 0.06). In YP early life stages, Se concentrations were highest in NHL (3.0 ± 0.2), and then decreased as follows: Egg masses (2.8 ± 0.1) > Larvae (1.37 ± 0.04) > Juveniles (0.93 ± 0.05). Se:Hg molar ratios varied considerably and were systematically above 1. This is the first study to simultaneously report Hg and Se bioaccumulation through fish life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Khadra
- Groupe Interuniversitaire en Limnologie et en Environnement Aquatique (GRIL), Département de Sciences Biologiques, Université de Montréal, Pavillon Marie-Victorin, 90 Vincent d'Indy, Montréal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Dolors Planas
- Groupe Interuniversitaire en Limnologie et en Environnement Aquatique (GRIL), Département de Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Philippe Brodeur
- Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs, Direction de la Gestion de la Faune de la Mauricie et du Centre-du-Québec, 100 Rue Laviolette, Trois-Rivières, QC, G9A 5S9, Canada
| | - Marc Amyot
- Groupe Interuniversitaire en Limnologie et en Environnement Aquatique (GRIL), Département de Sciences Biologiques, Université de Montréal, Pavillon Marie-Victorin, 90 Vincent d'Indy, Montréal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.
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67
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Roxanna Razavi N, Cushman SF, Halfman JD, Massey T, Beutner R, Cleckner LB. Mercury bioaccumulation in stream food webs of the Finger Lakes in central New York State, USA. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 172:265-272. [PMID: 30711861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.01.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Studies of mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation in streams draining both forested and agricultural watersheds are not common. Sixteen streams were sampled in the Finger Lakes region in central New York State with a mean agricultural land cover of 48%. Stream fish (Blacknose Dace, Rhinichthys atratulus, an invertivore; and Creek Chub, Semotilus atromaculatus, an omnivore) were collected and analyzed for total Hg (THg), and macroinvertebrates and periphyton were collected and analyzed for methylmercury (MeHg) determination. The effect of water chemistry, land cover, and macroinvertebrate MeHg was assessed as predictors of fish Hg concentrations. Blacknose Dace had significantly higher THg concentrations compared to Creek Chub (229 ng/g vs. 195 ng/g dry weight, respectively), and predatory and omnivorous macroinvertebrates (i.e., Perlidae and Cambaridae) were found to have significantly higher MeHg concentrations compared to other functional feeding groups. Mixed effects models identified macroinvertebrate MeHg concentrations as predictors of stream fish THg concentrations. Partition modeling found fish total length and total suspended solids predicted Blacknose Dace with 'High' vs 'Low' Hg (≥ or < 90 ng/g wet weight, respectively). Overall, stream fish THg concentrations observed were not of concern, unlike other regions in New York State such as the Adirondack Mountains, but a significant proportion of Blacknose Dace (22 - 73%) and Creek Chub (5 - 69%) would be considered a risk to a range of sensitive consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Roxanna Razavi
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA.
| | - Susan F Cushman
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Department of Biology, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Environmental Studies Program, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - John D Halfman
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Environmental Studies Program, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Department of Geoscience, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - Trevor Massey
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - Robert Beutner
- IT Services, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - Lisa B Cleckner
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Environmental Studies Program, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
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