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Sato H, Ishii C, Nakayama SMM, Ichise T, Saito K, Watanabe Y, Ogasawara K, Torimoto R, Kobayashi A, Kimura T, Nakamura Y, Yamagishi J, Ikenaka Y, Ishizuka M. Behavior and toxic effects of Pb in a waterfowl model with oral exposure to Pb shots: Investigating Pb exposure in wild birds. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 308:119580. [PMID: 35680064 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Among wild birds, lead (Pb) exposure caused by ingestion of ammunition is a worldwide problem. We aimed to reveal the behavior and toxic effect of Pb caused by ingesting Pb shots in waterfowl. Four male, eight-week old Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) were given three Pb shots (approximately 240 mg in total) orally and then fed for 29 days after exposure, simulating a low-dose Pb exposure in wild waterfowl. During the breeding period, blood samples were collected 10 times, and fecal samples every day. Additionally, 22 fresh tissue and 6 bone samples were obtained from each duck through the dissection. Although there were no gross abnormalities, the maximum blood Pb concentration of each duck ranged from 0.6 to 3.7 mg/L, reaching a threshold concentration indicative of clinical symptoms (>0.5 mg/L). δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase declined one day after exposure and remained low throughout the feeding period. Hematocrit also tended to decrease, indicating signs of anemia. The highest Pb accumulation was observed in the bones, followed by the kidneys, intestinal tracts, and liver. High Pb accumulation in the bones, which are known to have a long Pb half-life, suggested that Pb would remain in the body and possibly affect bird health beyond 28 days after exposure. Gene expression analysis showed a significant increase in the expression of the toll-like receptor-3 gene, which is involved in virus discrimination in the liver, suggesting a disruption of the immune system. Microbiota analyses showed a correlation between the blood Pb concentration and the abundances of Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae, suggesting that Pb affects lipid metabolism. These results provide fundamental data on Pb exposure in wild birds and a new perspective on the damage such exposure causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Sato
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Chihiro Ishii
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ichise
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Keisuke Saito
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Hokuto 2-2101, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Yukiko Watanabe
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Hokuto 2-2101, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Kohei Ogasawara
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Hokuto 2-2101, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Ryota Torimoto
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Takashi Kimura
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakamura
- Division of Collaboration and Education, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 001-0020, Japan
| | - Junya Yamagishi
- Division of Collaboration and Education, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 001-0020, Japan; International Collaboration Unit, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 001-0020, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan; Water Research Group, School of Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, South Africa; Translational Research Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan; One Health Research Center, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan.
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Lemaire J, Brischoux F, Marquis O, Mangione R, Caut S, Brault-Favrou M, Churlaud C, Bustamante P. Relationships between stable isotopes and trace element concentrations in the crocodilian community of French Guiana. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155846. [PMID: 35561901 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Trace elements in the blood of crocodilians and the factors that influence their concentrations are overall poorly documented. However, determination of influencing factors is crucial to assess the relevance of caimans as bioindicators of environmental contamination, and potential toxicological impact of trace elements on these reptiles. In the present study, we determined the concentrations of 14 trace elements (Ag, As, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Hg, Pb, Mn, Ni, Se, V, and Zn) in the blood of four French Guiana caiman species (the Spectacled Caiman Caiman crocodilus [n = 34], the Black Caiman Melanosuchus niger [n = 25], the Dwarf Caiman Paleosuchus palpebrosus [n = 5] and the Smooth-fronted Caiman Paleosuchus trigonatus [n = 20]) from 8 different sites, and further investigated the influence of individual body size and stable isotopes as proxies of foraging habitat and trophic position on trace element concentrations. Trophic position was identified to be an important factor influencing trace element concentrations in the four caiman species and explained interspecific variations. These findings highlight the need to consider trophic ecology when crocodilians are used as bioindicators of trace element contamination in environmental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy Lemaire
- Centre d'Études Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 79360 Villiers en Bois, France; Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France.
| | - François Brischoux
- Centre d'Études Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 79360 Villiers en Bois, France
| | - Oliver Marquis
- Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Parc Zoologique de Paris, 53 avenue de Saint Maurice, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Rosanna Mangione
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Wohlenstrasse 50a, CH-3032 Hinterkappelen, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Caut
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC), Departamento de Etologia y Conservation de La Biodiversidad - Estacion Biologica de Doñana - C/Americo Vespucio, S/n (Isla de La Cartuja), E-41092 Sevilla, Spain; ANIMAVEG Conservation, 58 Avenue Du Président Salvador Allende, F-94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Maud Brault-Favrou
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Carine Churlaud
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Paco Bustamante
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France; Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), 1 rue Descartes, 75005 Paris, France
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Humphries M, Myburgh J, Campbell R, Combrink X. High lead exposure and clinical signs of toxicosis in wild Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from a World Heritage site: Lake St Lucia estuarine system, South Africa. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:134977. [PMID: 35595117 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) exposure is a widespread wildlife conservation threat, but impacts on reptile populations remain poorly documented. In this study, we examined Pb exposure and accumulation in a wild population of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) at Lake St Lucia, South Africa. Recreational angling has occurred in the area since the 1930s and incidental ingestion of Pb fishing weights has previously been identified as a major source of Pb poisoning in the local crocodile population. In 2019, we sampled blood and tail fat tissues from wild (n = 22) and captive (n = 3) crocodiles at Lake St Lucia to investigate potential impacts of chronic Pb exposure on crocodilian health. Lead was detected in blood samples of all wild crocodiles, although concentrations varied widely between individuals (86-13,100 ng ml-1). The incidence of Pb poisoning was higher in male crocodiles, with mean blood lead (BPb) concentrations in males (3780 ± 4690 ng ml-1) significantly (p < 0.001) higher compared to females (266 ± 230 ng ml-1). Blood Pb concentrations were correlated with concentrations measured in tail fat tissue (n.d - 4175 ng g-1 wet wt.). Although most of the crocodiles sampled appeared to be in good physical condition, highly elevated BPb concentrations (>6000 ng ml-1) were associated with markedly suppressed packed cell volumes (4.6-10.8%) and severe deterioration in tooth condition. These findings suggest that anaemia and tooth loss may be clinical signs of long-term environmental exposure to Pb. Although previously undocumented in crocodilians, these symptoms are consistent with Pb poisoning observed in birds and mammals, and suggest that crocodilians may be more susceptible to the long-term toxic effects of Pb than previously thought. In light of these findings, we suggest that the impact of accumulated Pb on crocodilian fitness, reproduction and mortality requires urgent attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Humphries
- School of Chemistry, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Jan Myburgh
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robert Campbell
- National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Xander Combrink
- Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa
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Meyer CB, Walker TA, Francisco AB, Morrison EB, Meyer JS. Method to assess the potential magnitude of terrestrial European avian population reductions from ingestion of lead ammunition. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273572. [PMID: 36037158 PMCID: PMC9423653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Current estimates of terrestrial bird losses across Europe from ingestion of lead ammunition are based on uncertain or generic assumptions. A method is needed to develop defensible European-specific estimates compatible with available data that does not require long-term field studies. We propose a 2-step method using carcass data and population models. The method estimates percentage of deaths diagnosed as directly caused by lead poisoning as a lower bound and, as an upper bound, the percentage of possible deaths from sublethal lead poisoning that weakens birds, making them susceptible to death by other causes. We use these estimates to modify known population-level annual mortality. Our method also allows for potential reductions in reproduction from lead shot ingestion because reductions in survival and reproduction are entered into population models of species with life histories representative of the most groups of susceptible species. The models estimate the sustainability and potential population decreases from lead poisoning in Europe. Using the best available data, we demonstrate the method on two taxonomic groups of birds: gallinaceous birds and diurnal raptors. The direction of the population trends affects the estimate, and we incorporated such trends into the method. Our midpoint estimates of the reduction in population size of the European gallinaceous bird (< 2%) group and raptor group (2.9–7.7%) depend on the species life history, maximum growth rate, population trend, and if reproduction is assumed to be reduced. Our estimates can be refined as more information becomes available in countries with data gaps. We advocate use of this method to improve upon or supplement approaches currently being used. As we demonstrate, the method also can be applied to individual species of concern if enough data across countries are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn B. Meyer
- Arcadis, Highlands Ranch, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | | - Joseph S. Meyer
- Applied Limnology Professionals LLC, Golden, Colorado, United States of America
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European mammal exposure to lead from ammunition and fishing weight sources. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10014. [PMID: 36051261 PMCID: PMC9424960 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Ammunition and fishing weight usage is the greatest largely unregulated contributor of lead (Pb) deposition to the European environment. While the range of negative impacts of Pb exposure to humans and avian wildlife are relatively well documented, little is known about risks to wild mammals despite recent scientific interest and publications. A qualitative risk assessment of the potential Source-Pathway-Receptor linkages for European mammal exposure was conducted, based on literature reviews and existing evidence and discussions with experts from the fields of wild mammal feeding ecology, behaviour and health. The assessment identified 11 pathways for mammal exposure to Pb, with all 243 European species likely to be potentially exposed via one or more of these. All species were identified as potentially exposed via ingestion of water with elevated Pb from degraded ammunition/fishing weights. Ingestion of vegetation with elevated Pb from degraded ammunition/fishing weights potentially exposed many species (158), 78% of which had a potentially high risk of exposure when feeding in areas of high Pb deposition. Ingestion of retained ammunition in previously shot prey and/or discarded kill/gut piles with embedded ammunition was another significant pathway, contributing to predatory and scavenging carnivorous mammal exposure where an individual exposure event would be expected to be high. The mechanisms by which Pb from ammunition and fishing weight sources are moved up trophic levels and ‘transferred’ from areas of high deposition into wider food chains e.g. via water, flying invertebrates and herbivores being subsequently preyed upon requires further investigation. In conclusion, there are multiple and diverse Source-Pathway-Receptors linkages for European mammal exposures to Pb and evidence of exposure, from Europe and elsewhere, exists for some herbivores, carnivores, omnivores and insectivores. Both fatal but more likely non-fatal chronic and acute exposures may be expected to occur in wild European mammalian species, including those in poor conservation status.
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Anetor GO, Nwobi NL, Igharo GO, Sonuga OO, Anetor JI. Environmental Pollutants and Oxidative Stress in Terrestrial and Aquatic Organisms: Examination of the Total Picture and Implications for Human Health. Front Physiol 2022; 13:931386. [PMID: 35936919 PMCID: PMC9353710 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.931386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is current great international concern about the contribution of environmental pollution to the global burden of disease particularly in the developing, low- and medium-income countries. Industrial activities, urbanization, developmental projects as well as various increased anthropogenic activities involving the improper generation, management and disposal of pollutants have rendered today’s environment highly polluted with various pollutants. These pollutants include toxic metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides and diesel exhaust particles most of which appear to be ubiquitous as well as have long-term environmental persistence with a wide range of toxicities such as oxidative stress among others. Oxidative stress, which may arise from increased production of damaging free radicals emanating from increased pollutant burden and depressed bioavailability of antioxidant defenses causes altered biochemical and physiological mechanisms and has been implicated in all known human pathologies most of which are chronic. Oxidative stress also affects both flora and fauna and plants are very important components of the terrestrial environment and significant contributors of nutrients for both man and animals. It is also remarkable that the aquatic environment in which sea animals and creatures are resident is also highly polluted, leading to aquatic stress that may affect the survival of the aquatic animals, sharing in the oxidative stress. These altered terrestrial and aquatic environments have an overarching effect on human health. Antioxidants neutralize the damaging free radicals thus, they play important protective roles in the onset, progression and severity of the unmitigated generation of pollutants that ultimately manifest as oxidative stress. Consequently, human health as well as that of aquatic and terrestrial organisms may be protected from environmental pollution by mitigating oxidative stress and employing the principles of nutritional medicine, essentially based on antioxidants derived mainly from plants, which serve as the panacea of the vicious state of environmental pollutants consequently, the health of the population. Understanding the total picture of oxidative stress and integrating the terrestrial and aquatic effects of environmental pollutants are central to sustainable health of the population and appear to require multi-sectoral collaborations from diverse disciplinary perspectives; basically the environmental, agricultural and health sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Oiyahumen Anetor
- Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Nnenna Linda Nwobi
- Department of Chemical Pathology, BenCarson School of Medicine, Babcock University, Ilishan, Nigeria
| | - Godwin Osaretin Igharo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin, Nigeria
| | | | - John Ibhagbemien Anetor
- Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- *Correspondence: John Ibhagbemien Anetor,
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Kucharska K, Binkowski ŁJ, Zaguła G, Dudzik K. Spatial, temporal and environmental differences in concentrations of lead in the blood of Mute swans from summer and winter sites in Poland. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 830:154698. [PMID: 35318064 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a highly toxic pollutant and represents a serious threat to wildlife, affecting various systems in animal bodies. Especially prone to Pb poisoning are waterbirds, which may inadvertently ingest spent gunshot, fishing sinkers and contaminated sediments. This research thus focused on evaluating Pb concentrations in the blood of 170 Mute swans (Cygnus olor; a widespread species of waterbirds) at their summer (urban locations in Małopolskie and rural locations in Świętokrzyskie regions) and winter (the urban section of Wisła River in Krakow) sites in Poland (Europe). The study concentrated on comparing blood Pb concentrations according to sites and locations, verifying the influence of sex and age factors, examining the impact on hematocrit (Ht), glutathione (GSH) levels and body condition. Mean blood Pb concentrations (measured with ICP-OES) differed significantly between summer and winter sites (Regression by Maximum Likelihood Estimation (RML), p < 0.001) reaching higher values at winter sites. Concentrations did not differ from year to year (RML, p = 0.028). At summer sites, concentrations differed from location to location: swans from urban locations in Małopolskie had higher blood Pb concentrations (0.055 μg/g) than from rural Świętokrzyskie (0.008 μg/g; RML, p < 0.001). In summer and winter birds, neither sex nor age groups differed significantly the concentrations (RML, p > 0.231). Pb concentrations correlated weakly with Ht and GSH levels (Spearman test) and had no influence on body condition (proxied by scaled mass index; GLM, p = 0.246). We concluded that differences between summer and winter sites were dictated mainly by the type of habitat (rural vs. urban) that birds occupied in different seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kucharska
- Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Podchorążych 2, 30-084 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Łukasz J Binkowski
- Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Podchorążych 2, 30-084 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Grzegorz Zaguła
- Department of Bioenergy, Food Analysis and Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Zelwerowicza 4, 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Dudzik
- Eagle Conservation Committee, K. Jagiellończyka 4, 10-062 Olsztyn, Poland.
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Krüger SC, Botha A, Bowerman W, Coverdale B, Gore ML, van den Heever L, Shaffer LJ, Smit-Robinson H, Thompson LJ, Ottinger MA. Old World Vultures Reflect Effects of Environmental Pollutants Through Human Encroachment. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 41:1586-1603. [PMID: 35673892 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
African wildlife face challenges from many stressors including current and emerging contaminants, habitat and resource loss, poaching, intentional and unintentional poisoning, and climate-related environmental change. The plight of African vultures exemplifies these challenges due to environmental contaminants and other stressors acting on individuals and populations that are already threatened or endangered. Many of these threats emanate from increasing human population size and settlement density, habitat loss from changing land use for agriculture, residential areas, and industry, and climate-related changes in resource availability. Environmental chemicals that are hazardous include legacy chemicals, emerging chemicals of concern, and high-volume-use chemicals that are employed as weed killers and in other agricultural applications. Furthermore, there are differences in risk for species living in close proximity to humans or in areas affected by habitat loss, climate, and industry. Monitoring programs are essential to track the status of nesting pairs, offspring survival, longevity, and lifetime productivity. This is important for long-lived birds, such as vultures, that may be especially vulnerable to chronic exposure to chemicals as obligate scavengers. Furthermore, their position in the food web may increase risk due to biomagnification of chemicals. We review the primary chemical hazards to Old World vultures and the interacting stressors affecting these and other birds. Habitat is a major consideration for vultures, with tree-nesters and cliff-nesters potentially experiencing different risks of exposure to environmental chemicals. The present review provides information from long-term monitoring programs and discusses a range of these threats and their effects on vulture populations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1586-1603. © 2022 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja C Krüger
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Scientific Services, Cascades, South Africa
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, South Africa
| | - Andre Botha
- Endangered Wildlife Trust, Midrand, South Africa
| | - William Bowerman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Brent Coverdale
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Scientific Services, Cascades, South Africa
| | - Meredith L Gore
- Department of Geographical Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | | | - L Jen Shaffer
- Department of Anthropology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Hanneline Smit-Robinson
- BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Applied Behavioural Ecological & Ecosystem Research Unit, University of South Africa, Florida, South Africa
| | - Lindy J Thompson
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, South Africa
- Endangered Wildlife Trust, Midrand, South Africa
| | - Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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Hampton JO, Pay JM, Katzner TE, Arnemo JM, Pokras MA, Buenz E, Kanstrup N, Thomas VG, Uhart M, Lambertucci SA, Krone O, Singh NJ, Naidoo V, Ishizuka M, Saito K, Helander B, Green RE. Managing macropods without poisoning ecosystems. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/emr.12555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Chételat J, Cousens B, Hebert CE, Jung TS, Mundy L, Thomas PJ, Zhang S. Isotopic evidence for bioaccumulation of aerosol lead in fish and wildlife of western Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 302:119074. [PMID: 35231539 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a toxic element which is released as a result of anthropogenic activities, and Pb stable isotope ratios provide a means to distinguish sources and transport pathways in receiving environments. In this study, isotopes of bioaccumulated Pb (204Pb, 206Pb, 207Pb, 208Pb) were examined for diverse terrestrial and aquatic biota from three areas in western Canada: (a) otter, marten, gulls, terns, and wood frogs in the Alberta Oil Sands Region (AOSR), (b) fish, plankton, and gulls of Great Slave Lake (Yellowknife, Northwest Territories), and (c) wolverine from the Yukon. Aquatic and terrestrial biota from different habitats and a broad geographic area showed a remarkable similarity in their Pb isotope composition (grand mean ± 1 standard deviation: 206Pb/207Pb = 1.189 ± 0.007, 208Pb/207Pb = 2.435 ± 0.009, n = 116). Comparisons with Pb isotope ratios of local sources and environmental receptors showed that values in biota were most similar to those of atmospheric Pb, either measured in local aerosols influenced by industrial activities in the AOSR or in lichens (an aerosol proxy) near Yellowknife and in the Yukon. Biotic Pb isotope ratios were different from those of local geogenic Pb. Although the Pb isotope measurements could not unambiguously identify the specific anthropogenic sources of atmospheric Pb in biota, initial evidence points to the importance of fossil fuels currently used in transportation and power generation. Further research should characterize bioavailable chemical species of Pb in aerosols and important emission sources in western Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Chételat
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Brian Cousens
- Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology Research Centre, Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre, Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Craig E Hebert
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Thomas S Jung
- Yukon Department of Environment, Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 2C6, Canada
| | - Lukas Mundy
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Philippe J Thomas
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Shuangquan Zhang
- Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology Research Centre, Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre, Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
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Hampton JO, Dunstan H, Toop SD, Flesch JS, Andreotti A, Pain DJ. Lead ammunition residues in a hunted Australian grassland bird, the stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis): Implications for human and wildlife health. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267401. [PMID: 35446880 PMCID: PMC9022800 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Scavenging and predatory wildlife can ingest lead (Pb) from lead-based ammunition and become poisoned when feeding on shot game animals. Humans can similarly be exposed to ammunition-derived lead when consuming wild-shot game animals. Studies have assessed the degree of lead contamination in the carcasses of game animals but this scrutiny has not so far extended to Australia. Stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis) are one of the only native non-waterfowl bird species that can be legally hunted in Australia, where it is commonly hunted with lead shot. The aim of this study was to characterize lead contamination in quail harvested with lead-based ammunition. The frequency, dimensions, and number of lead fragments embedded in carcasses were assessed through use of radiography (X-ray). From these data, the average quantity of lead available to scavenging wildlife was estimated along with potential risks to human consumers. We radiographed 37 stubble quail harvested by hunters using 12-gauge (2.75”) shotguns to fire shells containing 28 g (1 oz) of #9 (2 mm or 0.08” diameter) lead shot in western Victoria, Australia, in Autumn 2021. Radiographs revealed that 81% of carcasses contained embedded pellets and/or fragments with an average of 1.62 embedded pellets detected per bird. By excising and weighing a sample of 30 shotgun pellets (all had a mass of 0.75 grain or 48.6 mg), we calculated an average lead load of 78 mg/100 g of body mass. This was a conservative estimate, because fragments were not considered. This level of lead contamination was comparable to hunted bird species examined using similar methods in Europe. The quantity and characteristics of lead ammunition residues found suggest that predatory and scavenging wildlife and some groups of human consumers will be at risk of negative health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O. Hampton
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Heath Dunstan
- Game Management Authority, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon D. Toop
- Game Management Authority, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alessandro Andreotti
- Area Avifauna Migratrice, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Christou A, Hadjisterkotis E, Dalias P, Demetriou E, Christofidou M, Kozakou S, Michael N, Charalambous C, Hatzigeorgiou M, Christou E, Stefani D, Christoforou E, Neocleous D. Lead contamination of soils, sediments, and vegetation in a shooting range and adjacent terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems: A holistic approach for evaluating potential risks. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 292:133424. [PMID: 34974047 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
It is well accepted that shooting ranges constitute hotspots of Pb contamination. This study evaluated the degree of Pb contamination of soils, sediments and vegetation within the boundaries of a highly visited shooting range, as well as the fluvial transport and dispersal of Pb, and therefore the contamination of adjacent river and water reservoir. Soils in the shooting range were severely contaminated with Pb, as indicated by the values of enrichment and contamination factor. The concentration of Pb in these soils ranged from 791 mg kg-1 to 7265 mg kg-1, being several dozens or even hundreds of times higher compared with control background samples. A temporary stream being in close proximity was also polluted, though to a much lesser extent. The degree of Pb contamination was negatively correlated with the distance from the shooting range. To this effect, the degree of contamination of the river and the water reservoir being in the vicinity of the shooting range was negligible, as sediments and water samples preserved similar Pb concentrations with control samples. However, cultivated (olives) and wild native plant species grown in the area of the shooting range were found to uptake and accumulate high concentrations of Pb in their tissues (even 50 times higher compared with control samples). The severe contamination of soils, sediments and vegetation in the studied shooting range can provoke very high ecological risks. Overall, results suggest that management measures should be undertaken within the boundaries of the studied shooting range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasis Christou
- Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, P.O. Box 22016, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Eleftherios Hadjisterkotis
- Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, P.O. Box 22016, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Panagiotis Dalias
- Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, P.O. Box 22016, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Eleni Demetriou
- State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, 2081, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Maria Christofidou
- State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, 2081, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sofia Kozakou
- State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, 2081, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Nicos Michael
- State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, 2081, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Eftychia Christou
- State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, 2081, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Demetris Stefani
- State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, 2081, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Damianos Neocleous
- Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, P.O. Box 22016, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus
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63
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Moriceau MA, Lefebvre S, Fourel I, Benoit E, Buronfosse-Roque F, Orabi P, Rattner BA, Lattard V. Exposure of predatory and scavenging birds to anticoagulant rodenticides in France: Exploration of data from French surveillance programs. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 810:151291. [PMID: 34748846 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Wild raptors are widely used to assess exposure to different environmental contaminants, including anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs). ARs are used on a global scale for rodent control, and act by disruption of the vitamin K cycle that results in haemorrhage usually accompanied by death within days. Some ARs are highly persistent and bioaccumulative, which can cause significant exposure of non-target species. We characterized AR exposure in a heterogeneous sample of dead raptors collected over 12 years (2008-2019) in south-eastern France. Residue analysis of 156 liver samples through LC-MS/MS revealed that 50% (78/156) were positive for ARs, with 13.5% (21/156) having summed second-generation AR (SGAR) concentrations >100 ng/g ww. While SGARs were commonly detected (97.4% of positive samples), first-generation ARs were rarely found (7.7% of positive samples). ARs were more frequently detected and at greater concentration in predators (prevalence: 82.5%) than in scavengers (38.8%). Exposure to multiple ARs was common (64.1% of positive samples). While chlorophacinone exposure decreased over time, an increasing exposure trend was observed for the SGAR brodifacoum, suggesting that public policies may not be efficient at mitigating risk of exposure for non-target species. Haemorrhage was observed in 88 birds, but AR toxicosis was suspected in only 2 of these individuals, and no difference in frequency of haemorrhage was apparent in birds displaying summed SGAR levels above or below 100 ng/g ww. As for other contaminants, 17.2% of liver samples (11/64) exhibited Pb levels compatible with sub-clinical poisoning (>6 μg/g dw), with 6.3% (4/64) above the threshold for severe/lethal poisoning (>30 μg/g dw). Nine individuals with Pb levels >6 μg/g dw also had AR residues, demonstrating exposure to multiple contaminants. Broad toxicological screening for other contaminants was positive for 18 of 126 individuals, with carbofuran and mevinphos exposure being the suspected cause of death of 17 birds. Our findings demonstrate lower but still substantial AR exposure of scavenging birds compared to predatory birds, and also illustrate the complexity of diagnosing AR toxicosis through forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg-Anne Moriceau
- USC1233 RS2GP, INRAe, VetAgro Sup, Univ Lyon, F69 280 Marcy-l'Étoile, France; CNITV, VetAgro Sup, 1 avenue Bourgelat, 69 280 Marcy-l'Étoile, France
| | - Sébastien Lefebvre
- USC1233 RS2GP, INRAe, VetAgro Sup, Univ Lyon, F69 280 Marcy-l'Étoile, France
| | - Isabelle Fourel
- USC1233 RS2GP, INRAe, VetAgro Sup, Univ Lyon, F69 280 Marcy-l'Étoile, France
| | - Etienne Benoit
- USC1233 RS2GP, INRAe, VetAgro Sup, Univ Lyon, F69 280 Marcy-l'Étoile, France
| | | | - Pascal Orabi
- French Bird Protection League (LPO France), France
| | - Barnett A Rattner
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Virginie Lattard
- USC1233 RS2GP, INRAe, VetAgro Sup, Univ Lyon, F69 280 Marcy-l'Étoile, France.
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64
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Ellis MB, Miller CA. The effect of a ban on the use of lead ammunition for waterfowl hunting on duck and goose crippling rates in Illinois. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/wlb3.01001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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65
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Hanley BJ, Dhondt AA, Forzán MJ, Bunting EM, Pokras MA, Hynes KP, Dominguez‐Villegas E, Schuler KL. Environmental lead reduces the resilience of bald eagle populations. J Wildl Manage 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brenda J. Hanley
- Wildlife Health Lab, Public and Ecosystem Health Department, College of Veterinary Medicine Cornell University 240 Farrier Road Ithaca 14853 NY USA
| | - André A. Dhondt
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Cornell University 159 Sapsucker Woods Road Ithaca 14853 NY USA
| | - María J. Forzán
- Wildlife Health Lab, Public and Ecosystem Health Department, College of Veterinary Medicine Cornell University 240 Farrier Road Ithaca 14853 NY USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Bunting
- Wildlife Health Lab, Public and Ecosystem Health Department, College of Veterinary Medicine Cornell University 240 Farrier Road Ithaca 14853 NY USA
| | - Mark A. Pokras
- Wildlife Clinic & Center for Conservation Medicine, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine Tufts University 200 Westboro Road North Grafton 01536 MA USA
| | - Kevin P. Hynes
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation 108 Game Farm Road Delmar 12054 NY USA
| | | | - Krysten L. Schuler
- Wildlife Health Lab, Public and Ecosystem Health Department, College of Veterinary Medicine Cornell University 240 Farrier Road Ithaca 14853 NY USA
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66
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Baos R, Cabezas S, González MJ, Jiménez B, Delibes M. Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) as sentinel species for the long-term biomonitoring of the Guadiamar River after the Aznalcóllar mine spill. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 802:149669. [PMID: 34525684 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Accidents at mines involving stored tailings have produced catastrophic environmental damage. In April 1998 the dam of the Aznalcóllar mine tailings pond in the surroundings of the Doñana National Park (southwestern Spain) broke, discharging into the Guadiamar River more than 6 million m3 of toxic mud and acidic water with high concentrations of heavy metals and arsenic. We used the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) as sentinel species to assess the potential impact of the toxic spill on the river ecosystems and their recovery with time by studying the spatial and temporal variation (1999-2003, 2006) of selected trace element (Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb and As) concentrations in feces. Throughout the sampling period, the highest heavy metal and As levels were found in the most spill-affected reaches of the Guadiamar River (i.e., the Middle and, to a lesser extent, the Lower reaches), pointing out the mining accident as the main origin of the contamination. Overall, levels of trace elements decreased with the time elapsed since the toxic spill, except for Cd (F1,352 = 0.29, P = 0.59). However, rebounds for some elements (Pb, As, and Cu) were also observed, especially in the Middle and Lower reaches of the river, which might be attributed to the residual contamination in abiotic compartments and/or new inputs from industrial and agricultural activities in the nearby areas. Concentrations were relatively high when compared to those reported for both our reference area (Guadalete River) and other metal-polluted zones. We found that the estimated amounts of Pb and As ingested during the first years after the spill in the Guadiamar Middle reach would be high enough to cause reproductive issues. This could affect the local population recovery, although evidence on distribution range and numbers suggests otherwise, with thriving populations at regional scale. Our results support the role of otters as sentinel species for biomonitoring contaminants and thus to evaluate fluvial ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Baos
- Department of Conservation Biology, Doñana Biological Station (EBD-CSIC), Seville, Spain.
| | - Sonia Cabezas
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - María José González
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry (IQOG-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Jiménez
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry (IQOG-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Delibes
- Department of Conservation Biology, Doñana Biological Station (EBD-CSIC), Seville, Spain
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67
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Nkosi DV, Bekker JL, Hoffman LC. Toxic Metals in Wild Ungulates and Domestic Meat Animals Slaughtered for Food Purposes: A Systemic Review. Foods 2021; 10:foods10112853. [PMID: 34829133 PMCID: PMC8621197 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of toxic metals in harvested game meat is a cause for concern for public health and meat safety in general. Authorities and food safety agencies continue to develop guidelines and limits of the maximum allowable levels of toxic metals in food products. However, the situation is different for game meat products in developing countries, where a number of shortcomings have been identified. This includes a lack of game meat animal slaughter regulations, specific species' product limits that have not yet been established and the continued use of hunting or game meat animals' harvesting plans that could introduce the same toxic metals of concern. This review was conducted from English literature published between 2011 and 2021; it highlights the possible health effects and the shortcomings in the implementation of game meat safety production strategies for toxic metals (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium and Mercury) in game meat animal production. Lead (Pb) remains the most significant threat for toxic metals contamination in game meat animals and the slaughter processes. In most developing countries, including in South Africa, the monitoring and control of these heavy metals in the game meat value chain has not yet been implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davies Veli Nkosi
- Department of Environmental Health, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-12-385-5283
| | - Johan Leon Bekker
- Department of Environmental Health, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Louwrens Christian Hoffman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa;
- Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia
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68
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Helander B, Krone O, Räikkönen J, Sundbom M, Ågren E, Bignert A. Major lead exposure from hunting ammunition in eagles from Sweden. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 795:148799. [PMID: 34246138 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to lead (Pb) from ammunition in scavenging and raptorial birds has achieved worldwide recognition based on incidences of lethal poisoning, but exposure implies also sublethal levels with potential harmful effects. Background and elevated Pb levels in liver from 116 golden eagles (GE, Aquila chrysaetos) and 200 white-tailed sea eagles (WTSE, Haliaeetus albicilla) from Sweden 2003-2011 are here examined, with supporting data from a previous WTSE report and eagle owl (EO, Bubu bubo) report. GE and WTSE display seasonal patterns, with no Pb level exceeding a generally accepted threshold for subclinical effects during summer but strongly elevated levels from October. Fledged juveniles show significantly lower levels than all other age classes, but reach levels found in older birds in autumn after the start of hunting seasons. Pb levels in EO (non-scavenger) show no seasonal changes and indicate no influence from ammunition, and are close to levels observed in juvenile eagles before October. In all, 15% WTSE and 7% GE were lethally poisoned. In areas with high-exposure to hunting ammunition, 24% of WTSE showed lethal Pb levels, compared to 7% in both eagle species from low-exposure areas. Lethal poisoning of WTSE remained as frequent after (15%) as before (13%) a partial ban on use of Pb-based shotgun ammunition over shallow waters (2002). Pb levels increased significantly in WTSE 1981-2011, in contrast to other biota from the same period. A significant decrease of Pb in WTSE liver occurred below a threshold at 0.25 μg/g (dry weight), exceeded by 81% of the birds. Trend patterns in Pb isotope ratios lend further support to this estimated cut-off level for environmental background concentrations. Pb from spent ammunition affects a range of scavenging and predatory species. A shift to Pb-free ammunition to save wildlife from unnecessary harm is an important environmental and ethical issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Helander
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research & Monitoring (NRM), SE-10405 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Oliver Krone
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jannikke Räikkönen
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research & Monitoring (NRM), SE-10405 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marcus Sundbom
- Department of Environmental Science (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Ågren
- National Veterinary Institute, Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases (SVA), SE-75189 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Bignert
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research & Monitoring (NRM), SE-10405 Stockholm, Sweden
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69
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Eduardo A. Díaz, Carolina Sáenz, E. Santiago Jiménez, David A. Egas, Kelly Swing. Is release of rehabilitated wildlife with embedded lead ammunition advisable? Plumbism in a Jaguar Panthera Onca (Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae), survivor of gunshot wounds. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2021. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.5777.13.12.19808-19812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead poisoning is a threat to wildlife, particularly after ingestion of lead ammunition derived from hunting activities. Little information, however, is available concerning plumbism in wild animals that survive the trauma associated with gunshot wounds. This study presents a possible example of lead intoxication by embedded pellets in a Jaguar Panthera onca nineteen months after being injured by a shotgun blast. In addition, the possible path of incorporation of lead into the trophic chain after the eventual release and death of an impacted animal, thereby expanding and prolonging the toxic effects of lead ammunition, is discussed. Direct intoxication by ammunition retained in the body of wild animals, as well as the indirect impacts on predators and scavengers that consume their flesh, should be sufficient reasons to reconsider the release of individuals with embedded lead ammunition into the wild.
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70
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Ludolphy C, Kierdorf U, Kierdorf H. Lead concentrations in antlers of European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from an agricultural area in Northern Germany over a 119-year period-a historical biomonitoring study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:56069-56078. [PMID: 34047901 PMCID: PMC8500883 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14538-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We analyzed the lead content in antlers of 90 adult European roe bucks (Capreolus capreolus) that had been culled between 1901 and 2019 in an agricultural-dominated hunting district in Lower Saxony (Northern Germany). Antler lead values ranged between 0.2 and 10.9 mg/kg dry weight. Median lead concentration was highest after World War II, during a period (1956-1984) of rapidly increasing mass motorization and use of leaded gasoline. Lead levels in antlers decreased markedly after the phase-out of leaded gasoline, but high values were still found in some recently collected antlers. This could indicate persistent lead pollution from former use of lead additives to gasoline, other traffic-related sources, or from agricultural sources (e.g., sewage sludge, fertilizers). This study highlights the suitability of analyzing roe deer antlers for the historical monitoring of changing lead levels in the environment. By collecting antlers and providing them for study, local hunters can significantly contribute to environmental surveillance and the monitoring of environmental pollution by bone-seeking contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Ludolphy
- Department of Biology, University of Hildesheim, Universitätsplatz 1, 31141, Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Uwe Kierdorf
- Department of Biology, University of Hildesheim, Universitätsplatz 1, 31141, Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Horst Kierdorf
- Department of Biology, University of Hildesheim, Universitätsplatz 1, 31141, Hildesheim, Germany.
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71
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Reigosa-Alonso A, Lorenzo Dacunha R, Arenas-Lago D, Vega FA, Rodríguez-Seijo A. Soils from abandoned shooting range facilities as contamination source of potentially toxic elements: distribution among soil geochemical fractions. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2021; 43:4283-4297. [PMID: 33847865 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-00900-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Civilian and military shooting range facilities cause environmental issues in several countries due to the accumulation of Potentially Toxic Elements; as a result of weathering of ammunitions accumulated into the soils. The contents and distribution of Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn were analyzed in 12 soils in an abandoned clay target shooting range at two different depths (0-15 and 15-30 cm). Single extractions (CaCl2 and DTPA) and Tessier sequential extraction were conducted to assess the PTE mobility and the PTE distribution in the different soil geochemical fractions at both depths. High total contents of Pb were found at both soil depths, while Cu, Ni and Zn showed lower significance levels. Copper, Ni and Zn are mainly associated with the residual fraction (> 95% of total content in all cases). However, Pb was highly associated with exchangeable fractions (21-52%), showing a high mobility at both depths. With moderate-high contents of organic matter (6-12%), the studied soils have acidic values and low levels of Al, Fe and Mn oxides that favors the migration of Pb through the soil profile and potential transformation to more mobile forms (Pb0 to Pb2+ and Pb4+). Although Pb reduced downward mobility in soils, due to the specific conditions of these facilities and the lead source (weathering of ammunition), risk assessment studies on clay-target shooting and firing range facilities should study the potential migration of Pb through the soil profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Reigosa-Alonso
- Department of Plant Biology and Soil Science, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 , Vigo, Spain
| | | | - Daniel Arenas-Lago
- Área de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Facultade de Ciencias, Universidade de Vigo, As Lagoas 1, 32004, Ourense, Spain
| | - Flora A Vega
- Área de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Facultade de Ciencias, Universidade de Vigo, As Lagoas 1, 32004, Ourense, Spain
| | - Andrés Rodríguez-Seijo
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal.
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal.
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72
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Lemaire J, Bustamante P, Mangione R, Marquis O, Churlaud C, Brault-Favrou M, Parenteau C, Brischoux F. Lead, mercury, and selenium alter physiological functions in wild caimans (Caiman crocodilus). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 286:117549. [PMID: 34438486 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants affect ecosystems worldwide and have deleterious effects on biota. Non-essential mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) concentrations are well documented in some taxa and are described to cause multiple detrimental effects on human and wildlife. Additionally, essential selenium (Se) is known to be toxic at high concentrations but, at lower concentrations, Se can protect organisms against Hg toxicity. Crocodilians are known to bioaccumulate contaminants. However, the effects of these contaminants on physiological processes remain poorly studied. In the present study, we quantified Hg, Pb and Se concentrations in spectacled caimans (Caiman crocodilus) and investigated the effects of these contaminants on several physiological processes linked to osmoregulatory, hepatic, endocrine and renal functions measured through blood parameters in 23 individuals. Mercury was related to disruption of osmoregulation (sodium levels), hepatic function (alkaline phosphatase levels) and endocrine processes (corticosterone levels). Lead was related to disruption of hepatic functions (glucose and alanine aminotransferase levels). Selenium was not related to any parameters, but the Se:Hg molar ratio was positively related to the Na+ and corticosterone concentrations, suggesting a potential protective effect against Hg toxicity. Overall, our results suggest that Hg and Pb alter physiological mechanisms in wild caimans and highlight the need to thoroughly investigate the consequences of trace element contamination in crocodilians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy Lemaire
- Centre d'Études Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 79360 Villiers en Bois, France; Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France.
| | - Paco Bustamante
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France; Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), 1 rue Descartes, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Rosanna Mangione
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Wohlenstrasse 50a, CH-3032, Hinterkappelen, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Marquis
- Sorbonne Université, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Parc Zoologique de Paris, 53 Avenue de Saint Maurice, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Carine Churlaud
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Maud Brault-Favrou
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Charline Parenteau
- Centre d'Études Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 79360 Villiers en Bois, France
| | - François Brischoux
- Centre d'Études Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 79360 Villiers en Bois, France
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73
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Szcodronski KE, Cross PC. Scavengers reduce potential brucellosis transmission risk in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul C. Cross
- Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center U.S. Geological Survey Bozeman Montana 59715 USA
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74
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Hampton JO, Specht AJ, Pay JM, Pokras MA, Bengsen AJ. Portable X-ray fluorescence for bone lead measurements of Australian eagles. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147998. [PMID: 34051503 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) toxicity from ammunition has been shown to be a threat to scavenging birds across the globe. Toxic levels of lead have recently been found in Australia's largest bird of prey, the wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax), through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis of liver and bone samples. However, ICP-MS is consumptive (causing damage to archived specimens), time-consuming, and expensive. For these reasons, portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) devices have been optimized to measure bone lead in North American avian species, humans, and other environmental samples. In this study, we assessed portable XRF for bone lead measurement in Australian raptors in two parts. First, we validated the method using tissues from wedge-tailed eagles from Tasmania (A. a. fleayi), analysing bone samples taken from sites on the femur immediately adjacent to sites for which we had ICP-MS data (n = 89). Second, we measured lead via portable XRF in the skulls of wedge-tailed eagles from south-eastern mainland Australia (A. a. audax) collected during a criminal prosecution (n = 92). Portable XRF bone lead measurement demonstrated an excellent correlation with ICP-MS results using root-transformed regression (R2 = 0.88). Calculated equivalent ICP-MS values revealed that greater than 50% of the eagles from mainland Australia had elevated lead levels (>10 mg/kg) and 13% had severe lead exposure (>20 mg/kg). Our results support previous studies of North American avian species and suggest that portable XRF could be a useful and inexpensive option for measurement of bone lead in Australian scavenger species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O Hampton
- Game Management Authority, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia.
| | - Aaron J Specht
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - James M Pay
- University of Tasmania, Churchill Ave, Hobart, Tasmania 7005, Australia
| | - Mark A Pokras
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, N. Grafton, MA, United States
| | - Andrew J Bengsen
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia
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75
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Herring G, Eagles-Smith CA, Goodell J, Buck JA, Willacker JJ. Small-Mammal Shooting as a Conduit for Lead Exposure in Avian Scavengers. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:12272-12280. [PMID: 34473489 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c01041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) exposure is a widespread wildlife conservation threat. Although commonly associated with Pb-based ammunition from big-game hunting, small mammals (e.g., ground squirrels) shot for recreational or pest-management purposes represent a potentially important Pb vector in agricultural regions. We measured the responses of avian scavengers to pest-shooting events and examined their Pb exposure through consumption of shot mammals. There were 3.4-fold more avian scavengers at shooting fields relative to those at fields with no recent shooting, and avian scavengers spent 1.8-fold more time feeding after recent shooting events. We isotopically labeled shot ground squirrels in the field with an enriched 15N isotope tracer; 6% of avian scavengers sampled within a 39 km radius reflected this tracer in their blood. However, 33% of the avian scavengers within the average foraging dispersal distance of nests (0.6-3.7 km) were labeled, demonstrating the importance of these shooting fields as a source of food for birds nesting in close proximity. Additionally, Pb concentrations in 48% of avian scavengers exceeded subclinical poisoning benchmarks for sensitive species (0.03-0.20 μg/g w/w), and those birds exhibited reduced δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity, indicating a biochemical effect of Pb. The use of shooting to manage small mammal pests is a common practice globally. Efforts that can reduce the use of Pb-based ammunition may lessen the negative physiological effects of Pb exposure on avian scavengers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garth Herring
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - John Goodell
- High Desert Museum, Bend, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Jeremy A Buck
- United States Fish and Wildlife Service, 2600 SE 98th Avenue Suite 100, Portland, Oregon 97702, United States
| | - James J Willacker
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
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76
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Kottferová L, Molnár L, Major P, Toporčák J, Mesárčová L, Kottferová J, Szarková A. Removal of foreign bodies from the proventriculus in a young golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). Acta Vet Hung 2021; 69:298-302. [PMID: 34520389 DOI: 10.1556/004.2021.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a clinical case report of a golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) with foreign bodies (stones) in its proventriculus. The case deals with the identification, management and removal of foreign objects identified in the gastrointestinal tract. A surgical removal by proventriculotomy under general anaesthesia was attempted. The surgery and the recovery were uneventful, and the follow-up after six months revealed no complications. To the best of our knowledge, there are no other reports of successful foreign body removal by proventriculotomy in the golden eagle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Kottferová
- 1 Clinic of Birds, Exotic and Free Living Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenského 73, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Ladislav Molnár
- 1 Clinic of Birds, Exotic and Free Living Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenského 73, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Peter Major
- 1 Clinic of Birds, Exotic and Free Living Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenského 73, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Juraj Toporčák
- 1 Clinic of Birds, Exotic and Free Living Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenského 73, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Lýdia Mesárčová
- 2 Department of Public Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Jana Kottferová
- 2 Department of Public Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Szarková
- 3 Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Košice, Slovakia
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77
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Blood Toxic Elements and Effects on Plasma Vitamins and Carotenoids in Two Wild Bird Species: Turdus merula and Columba livia. TOXICS 2021; 9:toxics9090219. [PMID: 34564370 PMCID: PMC8473200 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9090219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Birds have historically suffered adverse effects by toxic elements, such as As, Pb, Hg, and Cd. However, reports on exposure to a wide range of elements, including rare earth elements and other minor elements of emerging concern, and the potential consequences for wildlife are still scarce. This study evaluates blood concentrations of 50 elements and their related effects on lutein and vitamin levels in the Eurasian blackbird (Turdus merula) and wild rock pigeon (Columba livia), inhabiting different scenarios of contaminant exposure. Blood concentrations of As, Cd, and Pb (and Mn in T. merula) were increased in both species captured in the mining area, compared to the control site. T. merula also showed increased As, Cd, and Pb concentrations in blood in the agricultural–urban area, as compared to the control area, together with the highest Hg levels, which could be related to agricultural practices and industrial activities. Decreases of 33 and 38% in the plasma retinol levels in T. merula inhabiting the mining and the agricultural–urban areas, respectively, as compared to the control site, were associated with increased Pb, As, and Cd exposure. This could be due to a metal-driven suppressive effect in retinol metabolism and/or its over-use for coping with metal-related oxidative stress.
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78
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Causes of admission, length of stay and outcomes for common kestrels in rehabilitation centres in the Czech Republic. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17269. [PMID: 34446769 PMCID: PMC8390658 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96688-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rehabilitation centres help injured animals to recover and return back to the wild. This study aimed to analyse trends in intake and outcomes for the common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) admitted into rehabilitation centres in the Czech Republic. From 2010 to 2019, a total of 12,923 kestrels were admitted to 34 rehabilitation centres with an increasing trend (rSp = 0.7697, P < 0.01) being found during the monitored period. Subadult kestrels (34.70%) and kestrels injured by power lines (26.57%) were most often admitted. Most kestrels in the rehabilitation centres died or had to be euthanized (81.66%), only 15.90% of the birds could be released back into the wild. The median length of stay in rehabilitation centres for kestrels that were subsequently released was 35 days. Considering survival rates, the most critical threat to kestrels was poisoning (100% of the cases resulted in death) but mortality of the kestrels admitted for most other reasons also exceeded 80%. Given the low success rate of the care of kestrels in rehabilitation centres and the relatively small proportion returned to the wild, it is essential to eliminate the causes leading to their admission, that is, to protect their natural habitats and to prevent unnecessary capture.
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79
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Lead exposure induced inflammation in bursa of Fabricius of Japanese quail (C. japonica) via NF-κB pathway activation and Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibition. J Inorg Biochem 2021; 224:111587. [PMID: 34428639 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2021.111587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Bursa of Fabricius (BF), one of primary lymphoid organ, is unique to birds. Meanwhile, lead (Pb) is well known for its high toxicology to birds. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the chronic toxic effects of lead exposure on BF in Japanese quails (C. japonica) and the underlying mechanism of lead immunotoxicity. One-week old male quails were exposed to 0 ppm, 50 ppm, 500 ppm and 1000 ppm Pb concentrations by drinking water for four weeks. The results showed that Pb accumulation in BF increased in a dose dependent way. The growth and development of BF was retarded in 500 ppm and 1000 ppm Pb groups. The number of lymphocytes was decreased and the release of immunoglobulin G and M (IgG, IgM), complement 3 and 4 (C3, C4) was inhibited by Pb exposure. Lead exposure also caused oxidative stress and increasing apoptosis in BF. Moreover, histopathological damages characterized by inflammatory hyperemia and inflammatory cell infiltration and ultrastructural injury featured by mitochondrial vacuole, cristae fracture and chromatin concentration were found in BF of 500 ppm and 1000 ppm Pb groups. Furthermore, RNA sequencing based transcriptomic analysis revealed that molecular signaling and functional pathways in BF were disrupted by lead exposure. In addition, the activation of Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway while the inhibition of wingless integrated/catenin beta 1 (Wnt/β-catenin) signaling by Pb exposure were confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Our study may benefit to understand potential mechanistic pathways of developmental immunotoxicology under Pb stress.
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80
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Cai P, Zhu Q, Cao Q, Bai Y, Zou H, Gu J, Yuan Y, Liu X, Liu Z, Bian J. Quercetin and Allicin Can Alleviate the Hepatotoxicity of Lead (Pb) through the PI3K Signaling Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:9451-9460. [PMID: 34372660 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c03794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a common toxic heavy metal pollutant in the environment that seriously endangers the health of animals. The liver is a key target organ affected by Pb toxicity. Plant extracts allicin and quercetin have a strong antioxidant capacity that can promote the excretion of heavy metals by improving the body's antioxidant defense and chelating heavy metal ions. To explore the preventive and therapeutic effects of allicin and quercetin on Pb poisoning in chickens, 96 chickens were randomly divided into eight groups: control, Pb, allicin, quercetin, allicin + quercetin, Pb + allicin, Pb + quercetin, and Pb + allicin + quercetin groups. The chickens were given feed containing the above treatments for 90 days. The results indicated that Pb can affect the growth and development of the liver, damage the circulatory system, destroy the structure of mitochondria and nuclei in liver cells, cause an imbalance in the oxidation system, inhibit PI3K protein, and activate the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Allicin and quercetin, alone or in combination, can improve the antioxidant capacity of the liver and alleviate liver tissue damage caused by Pb. In summary, allicin and quercetin could alleviate oxidative damage and apoptosis in the Pb-poisoned chicken liver through the PI3K signaling pathway, with stronger effects achieved by their combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peirong Cai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qihang Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qianying Cao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuni Bai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Zou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianhong Gu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuezhong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianchun Bian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
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81
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Torimoto R, Ishii C, Sato H, Saito K, Watanabe Y, Ogasawara K, Kubota A, Matsukawa T, Yokoyama K, Kobayashi A, Kimura T, Nakayama SMM, Ikenaka Y, Ishizuka M. Analysis of lead distribution in avian organs by LA-ICP-MS: Study of experimentally lead-exposed ducks and kites. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 283:117086. [PMID: 33848898 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Lead poisoning of wild birds by ingestion of lead ammunition occurs worldwide. Histopathological changes in organs of lead-intoxicated birds are widely known, and lead concentration of each organ is measurable using mass spectrometry. However, detailed lead localization at the suborgan level has remained elusive in lead-exposed birds. Here we investigated the detailed lead localization in organs of experimentally lead-exposed ducks and kites by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). In both the ducks and kites, lead accumulated diffusely in the liver, renal cortex, and brain. Lead accumulation was restricted to the red pulp in the spleen. With regard to species differences in lead distribution patterns, it is noteworthy that intensive lead accumulation was observed in the arterial walls only in the kites. In addition, the distribution of copper in the brain was altered in the lead-exposed ducks. Thus, the present study shows suborgan lead distribution in lead-exposed birds and its differences between avian species for the first time. These findings will provide fundamental information to understand the cellular processes of lead poisoning and the mechanisms of species differences in susceptibility to lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryouta Torimoto
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Chihiro Ishii
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sato
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Keisuke Saito
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Hokuto 2-2101, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Yukiko Watanabe
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Hokuto 2-2101, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Kohei Ogasawara
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Hokuto 2-2101, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Ayano Kubota
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Takehisa Matsukawa
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan; Department of Forensic Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Yokoyama
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan; Department of Epidemiology and Social Medicine, Graduate School of Public Health, International University of Health and Welfare, Akasaka 4-1-26, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-8402, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan.
| | - Takashi Kimura
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan; Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
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82
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Bassi E, Facoetti R, Ferloni M, Pastorino A, Bianchi A, Fedrizzi G, Bertoletti I, Andreotti A. Lead contamination in tissues of large avian scavengers in south-central Europe. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 778:146130. [PMID: 33714099 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Lead poisoning from spent ammunition is known to affect many avian species. Birds of prey ingest lead when feeding on game shot with lead gunshot or bullets. Raptors with scavenging habits are particularly vulnerable to ingesting lead in areas with intensive hunting and are good indicators of the risk of poisoning from lead ammunition. To assess how much facultative and obligate avian scavengers suffer lead contamination in south-central Europe, between 2005 and 2019 we collected and analysed 595 tissue samples from 252 carcasses of 4 species (golden eagle, bearded vulture, griffon vulture, cinereous vulture). Lead concentrations in organs showed a similar pattern across species with long and small bones revealing the highest median values (5.56 and 6.8 mg/kg w.w., respectively), the brain the lowest (0.12), and the liver and kidney the intermediate (0.47 and 0.284). Overall, 111 individuals (44.0%) had lead concentrations above background thresholds in at least one tissue (i.e. >2 mg/kg w.w. in soft tissues, >8.33 in bone) and 66 (26.2%) had values indicating clinical poisoning (>6 mg/kg w.w. in liver, >4 in kidney, >16.6 in bone). Tissue lead concentrations and incidence of clinical and sub-clinical poisoning were higher in golden eagles and griffon vultures than in bearded and cinereous vultures, likely due to different feeding habits. In all species we found a rapid increase in lead values with age, but differences between age classes were significant only in the golden eagle. Birds with lead fragments in their digestive tract, as detected by X-rays, had higher median lead concentrations, suggesting that hunting ammunition is the main source of lead poisoning. Our results imply that lead impacts the demography of these long-lived species with delayed sexual maturity and low reproduction rate. A rapid transition towards lead-free bullets and gunshot is therefore required across Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Bassi
- ERSAF - Direzione Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio Nationalpark Stilfserjoch, Via De Simoni 42, 23038 Bormio, Italy
| | | | - Maria Ferloni
- Provincia di Sondrio, Via XXV Aprile, 22, 23100 Sondrio, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Bianchi
- IZSLER "Bruno Ubertini" - Sede Territoriale di Sondrio, Via Bormio 30, 23100 Sondrio, Italy
| | - Giorgio Fedrizzi
- IZSLER "Bruno Ubertini" - Dipartimento sicurezza alimentare, Via Fiorini 5, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Irene Bertoletti
- IZSLER "Bruno Ubertini" - Sede Territoriale di Sondrio, Via Bormio 30, 23100 Sondrio, Italy
| | - Alessandro Andreotti
- ISPRA - Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Via Ca' Fornacetta 9, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Italy.
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83
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Wang L, Li X, Zhang G, Zhao H. Transcriptomic analysis of lead-induced hepatoxicology in female Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica): Implications of triglyceride synthesis, degradation and transport disruption. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 244:109024. [PMID: 33631343 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) pollution poses great threats to mammals including human and it is also hazardous to bird life. In this study, RNA sequencing analysis was employed to examine the molecular responses to lead exposure in the liver of a toxicological model species Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica). Female birds were exposed to 0, 50, 500 and 1000 ppm waterborne Pb for 49 days. The results showed that hepatic microstructure was damaged under lead exposure featured by sinusoids dilation and irregularity as well as cell necrosis. Moreover, ultrastructural injury in the liver including mitochondrial swelling and vacuolization as well as nuclear deformation was induced by lead exposure. Lead exposure also caused the decrease of lipid droplets in the liver by oil red O staining. In addition, liver transcriptomic analysis revealed that molecular signaling and functional pathways were disrupted by lead exposure. Meanwhile, the expression of genes involved with hepatic glycerophospholipids metabolism of triglyceride synthesis and lipid transport of triglyceride transfer was significantly down-regulated by lead exposure. Moreover, the up-regulation of genes associated with fatty acid oxidation and the down-regulation of genes related with fatty acid synthesis were caused by lead exposure. The present study implied that lead induced liver malfunction and bird health risks through histopathological damages, molecular signaling disruption, genetic expression alteration and triglyceride metabolism disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119 No. 620, West Chang'an Avenue, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Xuan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119 No. 620, West Chang'an Avenue, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Gaixia Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119 No. 620, West Chang'an Avenue, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Hongfeng Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119 No. 620, West Chang'an Avenue, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China.
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84
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Celik E, Durmus A, Adizel O, Nergiz Uyar H. A bibliometric analysis: what do we know about metals(loids) accumulation in wild birds? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:10302-10334. [PMID: 33481198 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-12344-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Metals and metalloids pollution is an important worldwide problem due to the social and ecological effects and therefore has been the subject of many disciplines and the adverse impacts have been documented. In this study, content analysis and trends of studies focused on heavy metal accumulation in birds were presented. For this purpose, a bibliometric network analysis of the studies that use the concepts of "pollution," "heavy metal," and "birds" together in the abstract, keywords, and titles of the papers was carried out. The purpose of choosing this research method was summarizing the relation between birds and environmental pollution in an understandable manner to determine metals(loids) pollution, which become an important environmental problem. Bibliometric data consisting of approximately 971 papers were evaluated with VOSviewer program using the network analysis method to answer the research questions. The results revealed that birds act as bioindicators in the determination of environmental pollution and that the contaminant metals deposited in the various tissues of birds provide preliminary information about environmental pollution. The most of bird studies emphasized that the metal accumulation was mostly in the liver, kidneys, and feathers and the accumulation caused serious problems in most of the vital activities of the birds. The USA is in the leading country in birds-heavy metal studies followed by Spain, Canada, and China. In addition, the mercury (Hg) was the most extensively studied heavy metal in these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emrah Celik
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Department of Forestry, Hunting and Wildlife Program, Igdir University, Igdir, Turkey.
| | - Atilla Durmus
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Zoology, Van Yuzuncu Yıl University, Van, Turkey
| | - Ozdemir Adizel
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Zoology, Van Yuzuncu Yıl University, Van, Turkey
| | - Humeyra Nergiz Uyar
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, Bitlis Eren University, Bitlis, Turkey
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85
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Gorski PR, Scott SR, Lemley EM. Application of Stable Isotopic Ratio Analysis to Identify the Cause of Acute Versus Chronic Lead Poisoning of a Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus): A Case Study. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2021; 106:250-256. [PMID: 33388832 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-020-03064-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We utilized lead (Pb) stable isotopes to identify the source of acute Pb poisoning in a Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus) and evaluated overall Pb exposure. Upon necropsy, we obtained samples of blood, liver, kidney, heart, thigh, breast, femur, and metallic objects (i.e., fishing sinker, spring and swivels) from the gizzard for Pb isotopic analysis. Pb isotope ratios of blood and soft tissues were essentially identical to the Pb ratios of the sinker, the likely source of acute poisoning. The spring and swivels had lower Pb content and ratios distinct from tissue, suggesting no significant contribution to poisoning. Femur Pb isotopic composition was the most distinct biological sample and indicative of a combination of sources. These results demonstrate isotopic analysis as a viable method for determining the source of acute Pb poisoning, and that Pb isotope ratios in bone most likely record a lifetime-averaged metric of Pb exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick R Gorski
- Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene, 2601 Agriculture Dr., Madison, WI, 53718, USA.
- WI Department of Natural Resources, 101 S. Webster St., Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
| | - Sean R Scott
- Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene, 2601 Agriculture Dr., Madison, WI, 53718, USA
| | - Erin M Lemley
- Dane County Humane Society, Wildlife Center, 5132 Voges Rd., Madison, WI, 53718, USA
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86
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Li M, Nabi G, Sun Y, Wang Y, Wang L, Jiang C, Cao P, Wu Y, Li D. The effect of air pollution on immunological, antioxidative and hematological parameters, and body condition of Eurasian tree sparrows. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 208:111755. [PMID: 33396078 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution constitutes potential threats to wildlife and human health; therefore, it must be monitored accurately. However, little attention has been given to understanding the toxicological effects induced by air pollution and the suitability of bird species as bioindicators. The Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus), a human commensal species, was used as a study model to examine toxic metal accumulation, retention of particulate matter (PM), immunological and antioxidant capacities, and hematological parameters in birds inhabiting those areas with relatively higher (Shijiazhuang city) or lower (Chengde city) levels of PM2.5 and PM10 in China. Our results showed that Shijiazhuang birds had significantly more particle retention in the lungs and toxic metal (including aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, iron, manganese, and lead) accumulation in the feathers relative to Chengde birds. They also had lower superoxide dismutase, albumin, immunoglobulin M concentrations in the lung lavage fluid, and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in the lungs and hearts. Furthermore, although they had higher proportions of microcytes, hypochromia, and polychromatic erythrocytes in the peripheral blood (a symptom of anemia), both populations exhibited comparable body conditions, white cell counts, heterophil and lymphocyte ratios, and plasma T-AOC and corticosterone levels. Therefore, our results not only confirmed that Shijiazhuang birds experienced a greater burden from environmental PM and toxic metals but also identified a suite of adverse effects of environmental pollution on immunological, antioxidative, and hematological parameters in multiple tissues. These findings contribute to our understanding of the physiological health consequences induced by PM exposure in wild animals. They suggest that free-living birds inhabiting urban areas could be used as bioindicators for evaluating the adverse effects induced by environmental pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China; Life Sciences College of Cangzhou Normal University, Cangzhou, China
| | - Ghulam Nabi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yanfeng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China; Ocean College of Hebei Agricultural University, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Limin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Pengxiu Cao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuefeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China.
| | - Dongming Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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87
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Espín S, Sánchez-Virosta P. A review of metal-induced effects on vitamins A, E and D3 in birds. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2021; 30:1-16. [PMID: 33151447 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-020-02296-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Birds have been historically affected by metals and are considered powerful sentinels of environmental pollution. Some toxic elements (Pb, Cd, Hg, As) have been broadly studied in avian species and are well known for their accumulation capacity and deleterious effects, including alterations in vitamin levels. Vitamins A, E and D3 are fat-soluble nutrients involved in multiple physiological functions (e.g., immune function, vision, reproduction, growth and development). Publications reporting metal-induced effects on vitamins in birds are growing and, in some cases, results seem contradictory, making them difficult to interpret. Therefore, a clear view of the overall picture is needed. This mini-review article aims to compile relevant data and describe current knowledge on the effects of the most toxic elements (i.e., Pb, Cd, Hg, As) on vitamins A, E and D3 in birds. Although vitamins are diet dependent, they are strongly regulated and transformed in the organism, and metal-related disruption in their homeostasis may provoke alterations in different directions. Moreover, vitamin status and form in vivo is the result of complex interacting processes in the organism and metal exposure may produce cascade effects. Different factors that may contribute to the variable response of vitamins to metals in birds are discussed. Some final remarks and recommendations are provided for future studies. This mini-review shows an overview of the current knowledge in metal-induced alterations in vitamins of special concern for avian ecotoxicology, a research discipline facing important challenges in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Espín
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Socio-Sanitary Sciences, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Pablo Sánchez-Virosta
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Socio-Sanitary Sciences, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100, Murcia, Spain
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88
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Descalzo E, Camarero PR, Sánchez-Barbudo IS, Martinez-Haro M, Ortiz-Santaliestra ME, Moreno-Opo R, Mateo R. Integrating active and passive monitoring to assess sublethal effects and mortality from lead poisoning in birds of prey. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 750:142260. [PMID: 33182217 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The ingestion of lead (Pb) ammunition is the most important exposure pathway to this metal in birds and involve negative consequences to their health. We have performed a passive monitoring of Pb poisoning in birds of prey by measuring liver (n = 727) and blood (n = 32) Pb levels in individuals of 16 species found dead or sick in Spain between 2004 and 2020. We also performed an active monitoring by measuring blood Pb levels and biomarkers of haem biosynthesis, phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) metabolism, oxidative stress and immune function in individuals (n = 194) of 9 species trapped alive in the field between 2016 and 2017. Passive monitoring results revealed some species with liver Pb levels associated with severe clinical poisoning (>30 μg/g d.w. of Pb): Eurasian griffon vulture (27/257, 10.5%), red kite (1/132, 0.8%), golden eagle (4/38, 10.5%), and Northern goshawk (1/8, 12.5%). The active monitoring results showed that individuals of bearded vulture (1/3, 33.3%), Eurasian griffon vulture (87/118, 73.7%), Spanish imperial eagle (1/6, 16.7%) and red kite (1/18, 5.6%) had abnormal blood Pb levels (>20 μg/dL). Blood Pb levels increased with age, and both monitoring methods showed seasonality in Pb exposure associated with a delayed effect of the hunting season. In Eurasian griffon, blood Pb concentration was associated with lower δ-ALAD activity in blood and P levels in plasma, and with higher blood lipid peroxidation and plasma carotenoid levels in agreement with other experimental and field studies in Pb-exposed birds. The study reveals that Pb poisoning is a significant cause of death and sublethal effects on haem biosynthesis, P metabolism and oxidative stress in birds of prey in Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Descalzo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Pablo R Camarero
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Inés S Sánchez-Barbudo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Mónica Martinez-Haro
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain; Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal (IRIAF), CIAG del Chaparrillo, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Manuel E Ortiz-Santaliestra
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Rubén Moreno-Opo
- Subdirección General de Biodiversidad Terrestre y Marina, Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico Pza, San Juan de la Cruz s/n, 28071, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain.
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89
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Pay JM, Katzner TE, Hawkins CE, Koch AJ, Wiersma JM, Brown WE, Mooney NJ, Cameron EZ. High Frequency of Lead Exposure in the Population of an Endangered Australian Top Predator, the Tasmanian Wedge-Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax fleayi). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2021; 40:219-230. [PMID: 33090553 PMCID: PMC7839751 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead poisoning, mainly through incidental ingestion of lead ammunition in carcasses, is a threat to scavenging and predatory bird species worldwide. In Australia, shooting for animal control is widespread, and a range of native scavenging species are susceptible to lead exposure. However, the prevalence of lead exposure in Australia's scavenging and predatory birds is largely unknown. We evaluated the degree to which the Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi), an endangered Australian raptor and facultative scavenger, showed evidence of lead exposure. We detected lead in 100% of femur and liver tissues of 109 eagle carcasses opportunistically collected throughout Tasmania between 1996 and 2018. Concentrations were elevated in 10% of 106 liver (>6 mg/kg dry wt) and 4% of 108 femur (>10 mg/kg dry wt) samples. We also detected lead in 96% of blood samples taken from 24 live nestlings, with 8% at elevated concentrations (>10 μg/dL). Of the liver samples with elevated lead, 73% had lead207/206 isotope ratios within the published range of lead-based bullets available in Tasmania. These first comprehensive data on lead exposure of an Australian raptor are comparable to those for raptor studies elsewhere that identify lead-based ammunition exposure as a conservation threat. Our findings highlight the importance of further research and efforts to address lead contamination throughout the Tasmanian ecosystem and in other Australian regions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:219-230. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Pay
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | - Todd E. Katzner
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, US Geological SurveyBoiseIdahoUSA
| | - Clare E. Hawkins
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | - Amelia J. Koch
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
- Forest Practices AuthorityHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | | | - William E. Brown
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and EnvironmentHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | - Nick J. Mooney
- Birdlife Australia Raptor Group, Birdlife AustraliaCarltonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Elissa Z. Cameron
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of CanterburyChristchurchCanterburyNew Zealand
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90
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Schulz JH, Wilhelm Stanis SA, Hall DM, Webb EB. Until It's a regulation It's not my fight: Complexities of a voluntary nonlead hunting ammunition program. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 277:111438. [PMID: 33027735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife and human health are at risk of lead exposure from spent hunting ammunition. Lead exposure persists for bald eagles due to bullet fragments in game animal gut piles and unretrieved carcasses, and is also a human health risk when wild game is procured using lead ammunition. Programs encouraging the voluntary use of nonlead ammunition have become a popular approach mitigating these effects. This study explored attitudes and experiences of United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) staff implementing an outreach program encouraging deer hunters to voluntary use nonlead ammunition on 54 National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs) in the Upper Midwest, U.S. to understand factors affecting program implementation. We conducted 29 semi-structured interviews of USFWS staff along with 60 responses from an open-ended survey question. Twelve themes emerged from the data and were grouped into three broad categories: (1) challenges of dealing with complex issues, (2) importance of messengers and messages, and (3) resistance from staff. Challenges of dealing with complex issues included administrative restraint and uncertainty, scope and scale of program, human health not an agency responsibility, contextual political influences, and public-private collaborations. Importance of messengers and messages included the importance of experience, and salience of human health risk. Finally, resistance from staff included skepticism of the science and motives behind the program, competing priorities for refuge staff, differing perceptions of regulatory and voluntary approaches, cost and availability of nonlead ammunition, and disregard by some about lead ammunition and human health risks. Staff identified numerous challenges implementing the program, many of which were external factors beyond the control of the participants. Understanding the factors affecting program implementation may help guide future efforts encouraging the voluntary use of nonlead ammunition.
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Affiliation(s)
- John H Schulz
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 105 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Sonja A Wilhelm Stanis
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 105 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Damon M Hall
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 105 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA; Biomedical, Biological and Chemical Engineering, University of Missouri, 215 Agriculture Engineering Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Elisabeth B Webb
- U.S. Geological Survey, Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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91
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Bird Feces as Indicators of Metal Pollution: Pitfalls and Solutions. TOXICS 2020; 8:toxics8040124. [PMID: 33353152 PMCID: PMC7767019 DOI: 10.3390/toxics8040124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bird feces are commonly used as a proxy for measuring dietary metal exposure levels in wild populations. Our study aims to improve the reliability and repeatability of fecal metal measurements and gives some recommendations for sampling. First, we studied levels of variation in metallic element (arsenic, calcium, cadmium, cobalt, copper, nickel, lead) concentrations: temporal variation within an individual, among siblings in a brood and among-brood/spatial variation. Second, we explored the variation caused by dual composition (urate vs. feces) of bird droppings. Two sets of fresh fecal samples were collected from pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) nestlings living in a metal polluted area in summers 2017 (dataset 1) and 2018 (dataset 2). We found a great deal of temporal intra-individual variation in metal levels, suggesting that dietary exposure varied markedly in a short time scale (within a day). A sample from only one nestling per brood did not well describe the brood mean value, and we recommend that at least four siblings should be sampled. Brood level samples give relatively good temporal repeatability for most metals. For all the metals, the levels in the fecal portion were more than double to those in the urate portion. Since the mass proportion of urate in the bird droppings varied a great deal among samples, standardizing sampling, e.g., by collecting only the fecal part, would markedly reduce the variation due to composition. Alternatively, urate portion could be used for biomonitoring of internally circulated bioavailable metal.
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92
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Monclús L, Shore RF, Krone O. Lead contamination in raptors in Europe: A systematic review and meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 748:141437. [PMID: 32818895 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead contamination is a widely recognised conservation problem for raptors worldwide. There are a number of studies in individual raptor species but those data have not been systematically evaluated to understand raptor-wide lead exposure and effects at a pan-European scale. To critically assess the extent of this problem, we performed a systematic review compiling all published data on lead in raptors (1983-2019) and, through a meta-analysis, determined if there was evidence for differences in exposure across feeding traits, geographical regions, between hunting and non-hunting periods, and changes over time. We also reviewed the impact of lead on raptors and the likely main source of exposure. We examined 114 studies that were unevenly distributed in terms of time of publication and the countries in which studies were performed. Peer-reviewed articles reported data for 39 raptor species but very few species were widely monitored across Europe. Obligate (vultures) and facultative scavengers (golden eagle, common buzzard and white-tailed sea eagle) accumulated the highest lead concentrations in tissues and generally were the species most at risk of lead poisoning. We found no evidence of a spatial or decadal trend in lead residues, but we demonstrated that high lead blood levels relate to hunting season. Exposure at levels associated with both subclinical and lethal effects is common and lead from rifle bullets and shot is often the likely source of exposure. Overall, our review illustrates the high incidence and ubiquity of lead contamination in raptors in Europe. However, we did not find studies that related exposure to quantitative impacts on European raptor populations nor detailed studies on the impact of mitigation measures. Such information is urgently needed and requires a more harmonised approach to quantifying lead contamination and effects in raptors across Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Monclús
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim 7491, Norway; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain.
| | - Richard F Shore
- U.K. Centre of Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environmental Centre, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Oliver Krone
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
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93
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A new generation of highly sensitive potentiometric sensors based on ion imprinted polymeric nanoparticles/multiwall carbon nanotubes/polyaniline/graphite electrode for sub-nanomolar detection of lead(II) ions. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2020.114788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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94
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Taggart MA, Shore RF, Pain DJ, Peniche G, Martinez-Haro M, Mateo R, Homann J, Raab A, Feldmann J, Lawlor AJ, Potter ED, Walker LA, Braidwood DW, French AS, Parry-Jones J, Swift JA, Green RE. Concentration and origin of lead (Pb) in liver and bone of Eurasian buzzards (Buteo buteo) in the United Kingdom. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 267:115629. [PMID: 33254650 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Ingestion of lead (Pb) derived from ammunition used in the hunting of game animals is recognised to be a significant potential source of Pb exposure of wild birds, including birds of prey. However, there are only limited data for birds of prey in Europe regarding tissue concentrations and origins of Pb. Eurasian buzzards (Buteo buteo) found dead in the United Kingdom during an 11-year period were collected and the concentrations of Pb in the liver and femur were measured. Concentrations in the liver consistent with acute exposure to Pb were found in 2.7% of birds and concentration in the femur consistent with exposure to lethal levels were found in 4.0% of individuals. Pb concentration in the femur showed no evidence of consistent variation among or within years, but was greater for old than for young birds. The Pb concentration in the liver showed no effect of the birds' age, but varied markedly among years and showed a consistent tendency to increase substantially within years throughout the UK hunting season for gamebirds. The resemblance of the stable isotope composition of Pb from buzzard livers to that of Pb from the types of shotgun ammunition most widely-used in the UK increased markedly with increasing Pb concentration in the liver. Stable isotope results were consistent with 57% of the mass of Pb in livers of all of the buzzards sampled being derived from shotgun pellets, with this proportion being 89% for the birds with concentrations indicating acute exposure to Pb. Hence, most of the Pb acquired by Eurasian buzzards which have liver concentrations likely to be associated with lethal and sublethal effects is probably obtained when they prey upon or scavenge gamebirds and mammals shot using Pb shotgun pellets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Richard F Shore
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Deborah J Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - Gabriela Peniche
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Mónica Martinez-Haro
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain; Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal (IRIAF), CIAG del Chaparrillo, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Julia Homann
- TESLA-Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK
| | - Andrea Raab
- TESLA-Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK
| | - Joerg Feldmann
- TESLA-Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK; TESLA Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 1, A-8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Alan J Lawlor
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Elaine D Potter
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Lee A Walker
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - David W Braidwood
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Andrew S French
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7JD, UK; Marine Institute, Furnace, Newport, Co. Mayo, F28 PF65, Ireland
| | - Jemima Parry-Jones
- International Centre for Birds of Prey, Boulsdon House, Newent, Gloucestershire, GL18 1JJ, UK
| | - John A Swift
- John Swift Consultancy, Brookside Cottage, Chapel Lane, Higher Wych, Cheshire, SY14 7JS, UK
| | - Rhys E Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK; RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL, UK.
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95
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Thomas VG, Pain DJ, Kanstrup N, Green RE. Setting maximum levels for lead in game meat in EC regulations: An adjunct to replacement of lead ammunition. AMBIO 2020; 49:2026-2037. [PMID: 32451970 PMCID: PMC7568734 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-020-01336-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Each year, hunters from 12 of the 27 European Union (EU) countries and the UK shoot over 6 million large game mammals, 12 million rabbits and hares and over 80 million birds. They support an international game meat market worth over 1.1 thousand million Euros. Animals shot with lead ammunition frequently contain lead fragments in the carcass which contaminate meals made from game meat with concentrations of lead substantially above the maximum allowable level (ML) set by European Commission Regulation EC1881/2006 for meat from domesticated animals. This poses a health risk to frequent consumers of wild-shot game meat, with children and pregnant women being particularly vulnerable. Total replacement of lead rifle and shotgun ammunition with available non-toxic alternatives is needed for all hunting in EU nations to prevent exposure of humans and wildlife to ammunition-derived lead and to allow the depletion of the long-term environmental legacy of lead from spent ammunition. We propose that EC1881/2006 is amended to incorporate an ML for game meats as a supplementary measure to the replacement of lead ammunition. This would harmonise food safety standards for lead in meats traded across and imported into the EU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vernon G. Thomas
- Department of Integrative Biology, College of Biological Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| | - Niels Kanstrup
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Grenåvej 14, Rønde, 8410 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
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96
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Hedman HD, Varga C, Duquette J, Novakofski J, Mateus-Pinilla NE. Food Safety Considerations Related to the Consumption and Handling of Game Meat in North America. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7040188. [PMID: 33255599 PMCID: PMC7712377 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging foodborne pathogens present a threat to public health. It is now recognized that several foodborne pathogens originate from wildlife as demonstrated by recent global disease outbreaks. Zoonotic spillover events are closely related to the ubiquity of parasitic, bacterial, and viral pathogens present within human and animal populations and their surrounding environment. Foodborne diseases have economic and international trade impacts, incentivizing effective wildlife disease management. In North America, there are no food safety standards for handling and consumption of free-ranging game meat. Game meat consumption continues to rise in North America; however, this growing practice could place recreational hunters and game meat consumers at increased risk of foodborne diseases. Recreational hunters should follow effective game meat food hygiene practices from harvest to storage and consumption. Here, we provide a synthesis review that evaluates the ecological and epidemiological drivers of foodborne disease risk in North American hunter populations that are associated with the harvest and consumption of terrestrial mammal game meat. We anticipate this work could serve as a foundation of preventive measures that mitigate foodborne disease transmission between free-ranging mammalian and human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden D. Hedman
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61801, USA; (H.D.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Csaba Varga
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Jared Duquette
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife Resources; Champaign, IL 62702, USA;
| | - Jan Novakofski
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61801, USA; (H.D.H.); (J.N.)
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Nohra E. Mateus-Pinilla
- Illinois Natural History Survey-Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61801, USA; (H.D.H.); (J.N.)
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Correspondence:
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97
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Canova L, Sturini M, Profumo A, Maraschi F. Evidence of Low-Habitat Contamination Using Feathers of Three Heron Species as a Biomonitor of Inorganic Elemental Pollution. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7776. [PMID: 33114248 PMCID: PMC7660610 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The concentration of 12 elements (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn) has been investigated in the feathers of three species of Ardeidae, namely the Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, the Little Egret Egretta garzetta, and the Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, all breeding at a colony located in the southern Padana Plain (NW Italy). This study is a first step for an evaluation of possible direct effects of these elements on chicks' survival and growth rate. Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn were in the range 7-69 mg Kg-1, while lower levels of Pb, Ni, As, and Se (0.27-1.45 mg Kg-1) were measured. Co, Cd, and Cr were close to the method detection limits (MDLs) in all the species. The measured concentrations of the most abundant trace elements, such as Zn and Cu, seem to reflect the geochemical pattern of the background (running water and soil), while Hg concentration is lower and it appears to be biomagnified, particularly in Grey Heron feathers. Its concentration is higher in adults than in chicks, and it differs among the three species, as it is closely related to the fish-based dietary pattern. The measured trace elements' concentrations are below the threshold levels in all the heron species, and consequently, harmful and acute effects on the local population are unlikely; the conservation status of herons populations in northern Italy is probably more affected by other factors, such as climate changes, altered aquatic environment, and, consequently, food quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Canova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, I-27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.S.); (A.P.); (F.M.)
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98
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Sage RB, Hoodless AN, Woodburn MIA, Draycott RAH, Madden JR, Sotherton NW. Summary review and synthesis: effects on habitats and wildlife of the release and management of pheasants and red-legged partridges on UK lowland shoots. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rufus B. Sage
- R. B. Sage , A. N. Hoodless, M. I. A. Woodburn, R. A. H. Draycott, N. W. Sotherton, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Fordingbridge, SP6 1EF, UK
| | - Andrew N. Hoodless
- R. B. Sage , A. N. Hoodless, M. I. A. Woodburn, R. A. H. Draycott, N. W. Sotherton, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Fordingbridge, SP6 1EF, UK
| | - Maureen I. A. Woodburn
- R. B. Sage , A. N. Hoodless, M. I. A. Woodburn, R. A. H. Draycott, N. W. Sotherton, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Fordingbridge, SP6 1EF, UK
| | - Roger A. H. Draycott
- R. B. Sage , A. N. Hoodless, M. I. A. Woodburn, R. A. H. Draycott, N. W. Sotherton, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Fordingbridge, SP6 1EF, UK
| | - Joah R. Madden
- J. R. Madden, Center for Research in Animal Behaviour, Exeter Univ.,, Exeter, UK
| | - Nicolas W. Sotherton
- R. B. Sage , A. N. Hoodless, M. I. A. Woodburn, R. A. H. Draycott, N. W. Sotherton, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Fordingbridge, SP6 1EF, UK
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99
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Sánchez-Virosta P, León-Ortega M, Calvo JF, Camarero PR, Mateo R, Zumbado M, Luzardo OP, Eeva T, García-Fernández AJ, Espín S. Blood concentrations of 50 elements in Eagle owl (Bubo bubo) at different contamination scenarios and related effects on plasma vitamin levels. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 265:115012. [PMID: 32593922 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Some metals and metalloids (e.g. Pb, Hg, Cd and As) are well-known for their bioaccumulation capacity and their toxic effects on birds, but concerns on other minor elements and rare earth elements (ME and REE) are growing due to their intensive use in modern technology and potential toxicity. Vitamins and carotenoids play essential roles in nestling growth and proper development, and are known to be affected by the metals classically considered as toxic. However, we are unaware of any attempts to evaluate the exposure to 50 elements and related effects in plasma vitamins and carotenoids in raptor species. The main goals of this study are: (i) to assess the exposure to 50 elements (i.e. classic toxic elements, trace elements, REE and ME) in nestling Eagle owls (Bubo bubo) inhabiting three differently polluted environments (mining, industrial and control areas) in southeastern Spain, and (ii) to evaluate how element exposure affects plasma vitamin and carotenoid levels, hematocrit and body measurements (mass and wing length) of the individuals. Our results show that local contamination in the mining area contributes to increased blood concentrations of Pb, As and Tl in nestlings, while diet differences between control and mining/industrial areas may account for the different levels of Mn, Zn, and Sr in blood, and lutein in plasma. Plasma tocopherol levels were increased in the mining-impacted environment, which may be a mechanism of protection to prevent toxic element-related oxidative stress. Plasma α-tocopherol was enhanced by 20% at blood Pb concentrations ≥8 ng/ml, and nestlings exhibited up to 56% increase in α-tocopherol levels when blood Pb concentrations reached 170 ng/ml. Tocopherol seems to be a sensitive biomarker under an exposure to certain toxic elements (e.g. Pb, As, Tl).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Sánchez-Virosta
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Socio-Sanitary Sciences, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Mario León-Ortega
- Department of Ecology and Hydrology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - José F Calvo
- Department of Ecology and Hydrology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo R Camarero
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Manuel Zumbado
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Spain
| | - Octavio P Luzardo
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Spain
| | - Tapio Eeva
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Antonio J García-Fernández
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Socio-Sanitary Sciences, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Silvia Espín
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Socio-Sanitary Sciences, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
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100
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McPartland M, Garbus SE, Lierhagen S, Sonne C, Krøkje Å. Lead isotopic signatures in blood from incubating common eiders (Somateria mollissima) in the central Baltic Sea. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 142:105874. [PMID: 32585506 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105874] [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: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The Christiansø colony of common eiders (Somateria mollissima) in the central Baltic Sea were exposed to high levels of Pb during the 2018 breeding season that were not present in 2017. Due to these high Pb blood levels, the present study investigated possible Pb sources and Pb dynamics within this vulnerable colony. We analyzed body mass and lead isotopic ratios (Pb-IRs) in blood taken from the same incubating eiders at the early (day 4) and late (day 24) stages of incubation during the 2018 breeding season (n = 23). Pb-IRs 208/207, 208/206, 206/207, and 207/206 were analyzed using high resolution inductively coupled mass spectrometry. We found largely similar Pb-IRs from the different stages of incubation indicating a predominantly constant endogenous source of Pb exposure. We suggest the increasing Pb levels come from pre-nesting and nesting foraging and from medullary bone release. The similar Pb-IRs also indicate continued metabolization of the medullary bone to meet the nutritional and energy demands of incubation. Comparisons to Pb-IR reports from the Baltic Sea showed multiple sources of pollution distinguished by a difference between Pb-IRs in individuals with Pb blood concentrations >500 μg/kg ww and <500 μg/kg ww. The most highly contaminated individuals in the present study had Pb-IRs similar to those of Pb ammunition indicating shot pellet uptake. This study further emphasizes the need for continued biomonitoring of the Christiansø colony, including fecal sampling and environmental field sampling to identify the origin and extent of dietary Pb exposure on Christiansø. As a representative unit of the Baltic Flyway population; the Christiansø colony provides an important opportunity for continued investigation into Pb contamination, population dynamics, and declines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly McPartland
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Department of Biology, Høgskoleringen 5, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Svend-Erik Garbus
- Aarhus University, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Syverin Lierhagen
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Department of Chemistry, Høgskoleringen 5, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Åse Krøkje
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Department of Biology, Høgskoleringen 5, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway.
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