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Bargagli R, Rota E. Mediterranean Marine Mammals: Possible Future Trends and Threats Due to Mercury Contamination and Interaction with Other Environmental Stressors. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2386. [PMID: 39199920 PMCID: PMC11350842 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162386] [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: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite decreasing anthropogenic mercury (Hg) emissions in Europe and the banning and restriction of many persistent organic pollutants (POPs) under the Stockholm Convention, Mediterranean marine mammals still have one of the highest body burdens of persistent pollutants in the world. Moreover, the Mediterranean basin is one of the most sensitive to climate change, with likely changes in the biogeochemical cycle and bioavailability of Hg, primary productivity, and the length and composition of pelagic food webs. The availability of food resources for marine mammals is also affected by widespread overfishing and the increasing number of alien species colonizing the basin. After reporting the most recent findings on the biogeochemical cycle of Hg in the Mediterranean Sea and the physico-chemical and bio-ecological factors determining its exceptional bioaccumulation in odontocetes, this review discusses possible future changes in the bioavailability of the metal. Recent ocean-atmosphere-land models predict that in mid-latitude seas, water warming (which in the Mediterranean is 20% faster than the global average) is likely to decrease the solubility of Hg and favor the escape of the metal to the atmosphere. However, the basin has been affected for thousands of years by natural and anthropogenic inputs of metals and climate change with sea level rise (3.6 ± 0.3 mm year-1 in the last two decades), and the frequency of extreme weather events will likely remobilize a large amount of legacy Hg from soils, riverine, and coastal sediments. Moreover, possible changes in pelagic food webs and food availability could determine dietary shifts and lower growth rates in Mediterranean cetaceans, increasing their Hg body burden. Although, in adulthood, many marine mammals have evolved the ability to detoxify monomethylmercury (MMHg) and store the metal in the liver and other organs as insoluble HgSe crystals, in Mediterranean populations more exposed to the metal, this process can deplete the biological pool of Se, increasing their susceptibility to infectious diseases and autoimmune disorders. Mediterranean mammals are also among the most exposed in the world to legacy POPs, micro- and nanoplastics, and contaminants of emerging interest. Concomitant exposure to these synthetic chemicals may pose a much more serious threat than the Se depletion. Unfortunately, as shown by the literature data summarized in this review, the most exposed populations are those living in the NW basin, the main feeding and reproductive area for most Mediterranean cetaceans, declared a sanctuary for their protection since 2002. Thus, while emphasizing the adoption of all available approaches to mitigate anthropogenic pressure with fishing and maritime traffic, it is recommended to direct future research efforts towards the assessment of possible biological effects, at the individual and population levels, of chronic and simultaneous exposure to Hg, legacy POPs, contaminants of emerging interest, and microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emilia Rota
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy;
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2
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Bielmyer-Fraser GK, Courville JM, Ward A, Hardie MM. Mercury and Selenium Accumulation in the Tissues of Stranded Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) in Northeast Florida, 2013-2021. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1571. [PMID: 38891616 PMCID: PMC11171161 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111571] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are long-lived marine mammals, upper-level predators, and they inhabit near-shore environments, which increases their exposure to pollution. Mercury is a ubiquitous and persistent metal pollutant that can bioaccumulate and biomagnify up the food chain. Dolphins are known to accumulate mercury, and limited research has shown that mercury exposure can weaken the immune system of dolphins. The objectives of this study were to assess the mercury concentrations in the tissues (muscle, small intestine, liver) of stranded bottlenose dolphins and to compare the tissue mercury levels in dolphins that were stranded during the 2013-2015 morbillivirus Unusual Mortality Event (UME; immunosuppressed individuals) with the levels of those that were stranded at a normal rate (2016-2021). Selenium has been shown to reduce mercury toxicity in many animals; therefore, tissue selenium concentration and the molar ratio of selenium to mercury were also assessed. The tissue mercury (muscle, liver) and selenium (liver) concentrations increased with the age of the dolphins, with the liver accumulating the highest concentrations. No sex differences were observed in the mercury and selenium concentrations. While differences in tissue mercury concentrations were not observed due to the UME, the selenium accumulation profiles were significantly different between the two time periods. These results suggest that selenium may not have been as protective against mercury toxicity in the bottlenose dolphins that were stranded during the UME, possibly due to infection with morbillivirus.
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3
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Toro-Valdivieso C, Jugdaohsingh R, Powell JJ, Hoffman JI, Forcada J, Moore C, Blacklaws B. Heavy metal contamination in pristine environments: lessons from the Juan Fernandez fur seal ( Arctocephalus philippii philippii). ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:221237. [PMID: 36998770 PMCID: PMC10049756 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.221237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals, including mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd), occur naturally or anthropogenically and are considered toxic to the environment and human health. However, studies on heavy metal contamination focus on locations close to industrialized settlements, while isolated environments with little human activity are often ignored due to perceived low risk. This study reports heavy metal exposure in Juan Fernandez fur seals (JFFS), a marine mammal endemic to an isolated and relatively pristine archipelago off the coast of Chile. We found exceptionally high concentrations of Cd and Hg in JFFS faeces. Indeed, they are among the highest reported for any mammalian species. Following analysis of their prey, we concluded that diet is the most likely source of Cd contamination in JFFS. Furthermore, Cd appears to be absorbed and incorporated into JFFS bones. However, it was not associated with mineral changes observed in other species, suggesting Cd tolerance/adaptations in JFFS bones. The high levels of silicon found in JFFS bones may counteract the effects of Cd. These findings are relevant to biomedical research, food security and the treatment of heavy metal contamination. It also contributes to understanding the ecological role of JFFS and highlights the need for surveillance of apparently pristine environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ravin Jugdaohsingh
- Biominerals Research Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
| | - Jonathan J. Powell
- Biominerals Research Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
| | - Joseph I. Hoffman
- British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld 33501, Germany
| | - Jaume Forcada
- British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Charles Moore
- Algalita Marine Research Foundation, 148N Marina Dr, Long Beach, CA 90803, USA
| | - Barbara Blacklaws
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
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4
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Lambiase S, Fiorito F, Serpe FP, Trifuoggi M, Gallo P, Esposito M. Bioaccumulation of PCDD/Fs and PCBs in free-range hens: Congener fingerprints and biotransfer factors. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 309:136602. [PMID: 36174728 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The bioaccumulation of lipophilic environmental contaminants in farm animals is an important issue to control and prevent human exposure to toxic pollutants. Free-range hens were used as a model to assess the transfer and the bioaccumulation of PCDD/Fs, DL-PCBs and NDL-PCBs from the soil to eggs in an area in the Campania region particularly affected by pollution, the "Land of Fires". We determined the following ranges of concentrations in eggs: 0.90-5.51 pg WHO-TEQ g-1 fat for PCDD/Fs; 1.63-4.24 pg WHO-TEQ g-1 fat for DL-PCBs; 2.77-9.75 pg WHO-TEQ g-1 fat for the sum of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs and 12.53-30.94 ng g-1 fat for NDL-PCBs. Higher contamination levels were observed in the eggs from free-range hens, compared to those of the control group, that is hens raised indoors; this indicates that soil remains a major source of contamination. Livers showed low levels of contamination for both outdoor and indoor reared hens. Biotransfer factors (BTFs) were calculated for each of the 35 PCDD/F and PCB congeners analysed. The BTFs highlighted that the transfer and bioaccumulation depend on chlorination degree and substitution pattern, in particular they increase with increasing chlorination degree up to the hexa-chlorinated congeners and then decrease. An exception to these finding was observed for 2,3,7,8 TCDD and 2,3,7,8 TCDF, which showed very high BTFs. These results demonstrate the importance of promoting studies on the environmental contaminants bioaccumulation as they provide an effective support for the risk assessment and management of exposure to toxic chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lambiase
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Portici, Naples, Italy.
| | - Filomena Fiorito
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Produzioni Animali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Serpe
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallo
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Esposito
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Portici, Naples, Italy
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5
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Valsecchi L, Roscioli C, Schiavon A, Marziali L. Methylmercury determination in freshwater biota and sediments: Static headspace GC-MS compared to direct mercury analyzer. MethodsX 2022; 8:101581. [PMID: 35004215 PMCID: PMC8720905 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2021.101581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed and compared two analytical methods for determination of MeHg in freshwater biota and sediments, by: I) simplified static headspace GC-MS using internal standard (IS) isotope dilution quantification, after microwave acid digestion and aqueous phase NaBEt4 ethylation; II) Automated Mercury Analyzer, after double toluene extraction followed by back-extraction with L-cystein. The performance was evaluated by analysis of certified reference materials. For biota, mean recovery was 100 ± 2% and relative standard deviation (RSD) ≤ 6.8% for method I, and mean recovery was 98 ± 7% and RSD ≤13% for method II. For sediments, recovery of 94.5% and RSD of 8.8% were obtained with method I, and recovery of 90.3% and RSD of 9.4% with method II. Limits of detection (LOD) were 0.7 µg kg−1 and 6 µg kg−1, respectively. Both techniques were tested for MeHg analysis in freshwater invertebrates, fish and sediments, covering a large range of MeHg values (1.9–670 µg kg−1 d.w.). • Both protocols proved to be suitable for MeHg analysis in complex environmental matrices, even if, for method II, interferences in the extraction phase and limited sensitivity may hinder sediment analysis. • Passing-Bablock regression revealed a slight disproportion between methods, with line slope = 1.058 (95% CI ranging from 1.001 to 1.090).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Valsecchi
- CNR-IRSA National Research Council, Water Research Institute, Via del Mulino 19, Brugherio (MB) I-20861, Italy
| | - Claudio Roscioli
- CNR-IRSA National Research Council, Water Research Institute, Via del Mulino 19, Brugherio (MB) I-20861, Italy
| | - Alfredo Schiavon
- CNR-IRSA National Research Council, Water Research Institute, Via del Mulino 19, Brugherio (MB) I-20861, Italy.,Department of Ecohydrology, IGB Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 310, Berlin 12587, Germany
| | - Laura Marziali
- CNR-IRSA National Research Council, Water Research Institute, Via del Mulino 19, Brugherio (MB) I-20861, Italy
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Squadrone S, Abete MC, Miedico O, Gavinelli S, Neri B, Busico F, Berretta S, Carosielli L, Carrabs G, Chiaravalle AE. Poaching of endangered species in Mediterranean Sea: Alopias vulpinus. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 168:112456. [PMID: 33991986 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112456] [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: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A thresher shark poached by fishermen in the stretch of sea between the island of Ponza and the coast of Terracina (Lazio, Central Italy, Mediterranean Sea) and confiscated by the Italian health authorities was evaluated for the presence of chemical contaminants. Hg mean concentration of 2.1 mg kg-1 was found in muscle; speciation analysis confirmed it was almost in the toxic organic form of MeHg (2.0 mg kg-1). The Se:Hg molar ratio was <1 not protective against the toxic effect of Hg. 137Cs was detected at a mean concentration of 0.53 Bq kg-1, and 40K, radioisotope of natural origin was found at 91 Bq kg-1. Dioxins and PCBs were found in the common thresher shark at mean concentrations of 0.012 and 0.088 pg TEQ-WHO g-1 w.w. while NDL PCBs at 4.5 ng g-1 w.w., lower than limits set by European Regulation. The major concern is constituted by the presence of Hg twice the maximum limit set by EU Regulation, then the consumption of thresher shark flesh should be strongly discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Squadrone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, ITALY.
| | - Maria Cesarina Abete
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, ITALY
| | - Oto Miedico
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Centro di Referenza Nazionale Radioattività, via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, ITALY
| | - Stefania Gavinelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, ITALY
| | - Bruno Neri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, via Appia Nuova 1411, Roma, ITALY
| | - Fabio Busico
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, via Appia Nuova 1411, Roma, ITALY
| | - Sesto Berretta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana, via Appia Nuova 1411, Roma, ITALY
| | | | | | - Antonio E Chiaravalle
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Centro di Referenza Nazionale Radioattività, via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, ITALY
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7
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Manhães BMR, Santos-Neto EB, Tovar LR, Guari EB, Flach L, Kasper D, Galvão PMA, Malm O, Gonçalves RA, Bisi TL, Azevedo AF, Lailson-Brito J. Changes in mercury distribution and its body burden in delphinids affected by a morbillivirus infection: Evidences of methylmercury intoxication in Guiana dolphin. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128286. [PMID: 33297230 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An unusual mortality event (UME) attributed to morbillivirus infection was identified in two Guiana dolphin populations from the Southeastern Brazilian coast. The aim of this study was to characterize total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) and selenium (Se) bioaccumulation and body burden in Guiana dolphins from Sepetiba Bay (RJ) collected before (n = 61) and during the UME (n = 20). Significantly lower Se concentrations were found in the livers of individuals collected during the UME (Mann-Whitney test; p = 0.03), probably due to impairment of the detoxification process in the liver. There were differences in THg and Se concentrations in the organs and tissues of individuals (Kruskal-Wallis test, p < 0.05), but not MeHg (Kruskal-Wallis test, p = 0.07). For THg, the liver showed the higher concentrations and differed among organs and tissues analyzed such as blubber (Tukey's test for unequal N; p = 0.003). For Se concentrations, the skin and kidney presented the higher concentrations and varied among other tissues/organs, like muscle (Tukey's test for unequal N; p = 0.02). Differences in body burdens were observed among specimens collected previously and during the UME probably due to the remobilization and transport of the muscle-stored MeHg to other tissues/organs. This abrupt input of MeHg into the bloodstream may cause serious health damage. Indeed, evidences of methylmercury intoxication was observed in Guiana dolphins in Sepetiba Bay. In conclusion, bioaccumulation patterns, the detoxification process and body burden were affected by morbillivirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M R Manhães
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas (Biofísica), Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, CEP 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - E B Santos-Neto
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - L R Tovar
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - E B Guari
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - L Flach
- Instituto Boto Cinza, Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, Av. Do Canal, 141, Brasilinha, CEP 23860-000, Itacuruçá, Mangaratiba, RJ, Brazil
| | - D Kasper
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373 Sala G0-61, CEP 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - P M A Galvão
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373 Sala G0-61, CEP 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - O Malm
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373 Sala G0-61, CEP 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - R A Gonçalves
- Departamento de Química, Pontifícia Universidade Catolica Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua Marquês de São Vicente 225, CEP 22451-900, Gávea, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - T L Bisi
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - A F Azevedo
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - J Lailson-Brito
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores ''Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel'' (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade Do Estado Do Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas (Biofísica), Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, CEP 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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8
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Giacomino A, Ruo Redda A, Caligiuri R, Inaudi P, Squadrone S, Abete MC, Abollino O, Morandi S, Conca E, Malandrino M. Development of an easy portable procedure for on-site determination of mercury and methylmercury. Food Chem 2020; 342:128347. [PMID: 33071191 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A portable measurement and speciation procedure for inorganic mercury (HgIN) and methylmercury (CH3Hg) was developed. A portable sample pretreatment was optimized to determine total mercury content. A new home-made sorbent (CYXAD, CHYPOS 101 modified Amberlite XAD), was prepared to separate HgIN and CH3Hg. Mercury species were determined using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SW-ASV) with a solid gold electrode (SGE) and using a portable potentiostat. A certified reference material, five freeze-dried samples and three fresh samples were analysed with conventional voltammetric analyzer, after dissolution of the samples in microwave oven, and with a portable potentiostat after the mild eating procedure. The results obtained by SW-ASV were compared with those obtained using Direct Mercury Analyser (DMA). The quantification with the portable method is comparable to that obtained with the DMA. Retention tests showed the selectivity of CYXAD for HgIN, its stability and the possibility to re-use the same aliquot of resin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Giacomino
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Andrea Ruo Redda
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Rocco Caligiuri
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Inaudi
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Stefania Squadrone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta (IZSPLV), 10100 Torino, Italy.
| | - Maria Cesarina Abete
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta (IZSPLV), 10100 Torino, Italy.
| | - Ornella Abollino
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Sara Morandi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Conca
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy.
| | - Mery Malandrino
- Department of Chemistry, University of Torino, Via Pietro Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy.
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9
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Ochiai M, Kurihara N, Hirano M, Nakata A, Iwata H. In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Risk Assessments of Environmental Pollutants Using Fibroblasts of a Stranded Finless Porpoise ( Neophocaena asiaeorientalis). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:6832-6841. [PMID: 32337981 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b07471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cetaceans accumulate high levels of environmental pollutants, yet their toxicological studies have been difficult due to technical and ethical issues. It is essential to identify and fill the current knowledge gaps in the in vitro assays available for cetaceans. The present study establishes a novel in vitro assay that uses the fibroblasts of a finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis) (FF) stranded in the Seto Inland Sea (SIS) to answer questions about the cytotoxicity and risks of environmental pollutants. FF were treated with 17 compounds including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and their metabolites (DDTs) and evaluated for cytotoxicity, viability, and apoptosis. The results of FF were compared with those of human fibroblasts (HF). The relative potencies of the test compounds were comparable between the two species, as EC50 of these compounds significantly correlated for FF and HF. Exposure-activity ratios (EARs) revealed that accumulation of PCBs and DDTs are likely to pose adverse effects at the cellular level in the SIS finless porpoises, as their tissue concentrations exceeded EC50 values obtained in this study. This study successfully evaluated the risks of environmental pollutants using cetacean fibroblasts isolated by a non-invasive method that may be applied to various cetacean species and compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Ochiai
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama City, Ehime 790-8577 Japan
| | - Nozomi Kurihara
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, 1677-1, Yoshida, Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan
| | - Masashi Hirano
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama City, Ehime 790-8577 Japan
| | - Akifumi Nakata
- Hokkaido University of Science, 7-Jo 15-4-1 Maeda, Teine, Sapporo, Hokkaido 006-8585, Japan
| | - Hisato Iwata
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama City, Ehime 790-8577 Japan
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10
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López-Berenguer G, Peñalver J, Martínez-López E. A critical review about neurotoxic effects in marine mammals of mercury and other trace elements. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 246:125688. [PMID: 31896013 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Marine mammals are more exposed to mercury (Hg) than any others animals in the world. As many trace elements, Hg it is able to impair the brain function, which could be a cause of population decline. Nevertheless, these issues have been scarcely studied because of the technical and ethical difficulties. We conducted a systematic review about marine mammals' brain exposition to Hg and other trace elements, and their neurotoxic effects. Information was scarce and the lack of standardization of nomenclature of brain structures, sample collecting and results presentation made it difficult to obtain conclusions. Hg was the most studied metal and toothed whales the most studied group. Despite being its target organ, brain accumulates lesser concentrations of Hg than other tissues as liver. We found a significant positive correlation between both organs' burden (rho = 0.956 for cetaceans; rho = 0.756 for pinnipeds). Reported Hg values in brain of cetaceans (median 3.00 ppm ww) surpassed by one or two orders of magnitude those values found in other species as pinnipeds (median 0.33 ppm ww) or polar bears (median 0.07 ppm ww). Such values exceeded neurotoxicity thresholds. Although marine mammals ingest mostly the organic and more toxic form MeHg, different fractions of inorganic mercury can appear in brain, which could suggest some detoxification mechanisms. Other suggested mechanisms include Se-Hg interaction and liver sequestration. Although other elements are subjected to a rigid homeostatic control, appear in low concentrations or do not exert an important neurotoxic effect, they should be more studied to elucidate their neurotoxicity potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- G López-Berenguer
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - J Peñalver
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain; Fisheries and Aquaculture Service (CARM), 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - E Martínez-López
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain; Toxicology and Risk Assessment Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
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11
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Chételat J, Ackerman JT, Eagles-Smith CA, Hebert CE. Methylmercury exposure in wildlife: A review of the ecological and physiological processes affecting contaminant concentrations and their interpretation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 711:135117. [PMID: 31831233 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) can result in detrimental health effects in wildlife. With advances in ecological indicators and analytical techniques for measurement of MeHg in a variety of tissues, numerous processes have been identified that can influence MeHg concentrations in wildlife. This review presents a synthesis of theoretical principals and applied information for measuring MeHg exposure and interpreting MeHg concentrations in wildlife. Mercury concentrations in wildlife are the net result of ecological processes influencing dietary exposure combined with physiological processes that regulate assimilation, transformation, and elimination. Therefore, consideration of both physiological and ecological processes should be integrated when formulating biomonitoring strategies. Ecological indicators, particularly stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur, compound-specific stable isotopes, and fatty acids, can be effective tools to evaluate dietary MeHg exposure. Animal species differ in their physiological capacity for MeHg elimination, and animal tissues can be inert or physiologically active, act as sites of storage, transformation, or excretion of MeHg, and vary in the timing of MeHg exposure they represent. Biological influences such as age, sex, maternal transfer, and growth or fasting are also relevant for interpretation of tissue MeHg concentrations. Wildlife tissues that represent current or near-term bioaccumulation and in which MeHg is the predominant mercury species (such as blood and eggs) are most effective for biomonitoring ecosystems and understanding landscape drivers of MeHg exposure. Further research is suggested to critically evaluate the use of keratinized external tissues to measure MeHg bioaccumulation, particularly for less-well studied wildlife such as reptiles and terrestrial mammals. Suggested methods are provided to effectively use wildlife for quantifying patterns and drivers of MeHg bioaccumulation over time and space, as well as for assessing the potential risk and toxicological effects of MeHg on wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Chételat
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA 95620, United States
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Craig E Hebert
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada
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12
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Kershaw JL, Hall AJ. Mercury in cetaceans: Exposure, bioaccumulation and toxicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 694:133683. [PMID: 31394330 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.133683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The fate and transportation of mercury in the marine environment are driven by a combination of anthropogenic atmospheric and aquatic sources, as well as natural geological inputs. Mercury biomagnifies up the food chain, resulting in the bioaccumulation of toxic concentrations in higher trophic organisms even when concentrations in their habitat remain below the threshold level for direct toxicity. As a result, mercury exposure has been recognised as a health concern for both humans and top marine predators, including cetaceans. There appears to be no overall trend in the global measured concentrations reported in cetaceans between 1975 and 2010, although differences between areas show that the highest concentrations in recent decades have been measured in the tissues of Mediterranean odontocetes. There is increasing concern for the impacts of mercury on the Arctic marine ecosystem with changes in water temperatures, ocean currents, and prey availability, all predicted to affect exposure. The accumulation of mercury in various tissues has been linked to renal and hepatic damage as well as reported neurotoxic, genotoxic, and immunotoxic effects. These effects have been documented through studies on stranded and by-caught cetaceans as well as in vitro cell culture experiments. Demethylation of methylmercury and protection by selenium have been suggested as possible mercury detoxification mechanisms in cetaceans that may explain the very high concentrations measured in tissues of some species with no apparent acute toxicity. Thus, the ratio of selenium to mercury is of importance when aiming to determine the impact of the contaminant load at an individual level. The long-term population level effects of mercury exposure are unknown, and continued monitoring of odontocete populations in particular is advised in order to predict the consequences of mercury uptake on marine food chains in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L Kershaw
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 8LB, UK.
| | - Ailsa J Hall
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 8LB, UK
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13
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Harley J, Gaxiola-Robles R, Zenteno-Savín T, Méndez-Rodríguez LC, Bencomo-Alvarez AE, Thiede A, O'Hara TM. Using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope modelling to assess dietary mercury exposure for pregnant women in Baja California Sur, Mexico. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 234:702-714. [PMID: 31234087 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.06.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous studies of mercury (Hg) in pregnant women in the area of La Paz, Baja California Sur (BCS), Mexico found a proportion of individuals had concentrations of total Hg ([THg]) above some thresholds of concern set by health agencies. The [THg] were associated with fish and seafood consumption as well as other factors; although it was unclear which marine diet items could potentially be contributing to the concentrations observed. METHOD We examined [THg] and monomethylmercury concentration ([MeHg+]) in the archived hair of 70 pregnant women from BCS as well as in diet items including fish, shellfish, and staple items (rice, beans, corn, and flour). We measured stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen and employed a Bayesian stable isotope mixing model to investigate the proportion of fish and seafood in the isotopic profiles of archived hair samples. RESULTS Concentrations of Hg species were low in staple foods and ranged from below detection limit to 5.71 parts per billion (ppb) wet weight. In hair, geometric mean [THg] was 658 ppb and [MeHg+] was 395 ppb, which were lower than previous reports. Percent MeHg+ was positively correlated with higher δ15N values. CONCLUSIONS The largest carbon contributors to the diet of the study participants were corn and rice, and our analysis of fish contribution to diet varyingly agreed with the self-reported fish consumption. This report highlights the ability to discriminate potential sources of Hg from a diverse diet and the limitations of dietary recall studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Harley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 900 Yukon Drive Rm 194, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-6160, USA.
| | - Ramón Gaxiola-Robles
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, C.P. 23096. Mexico; Hospital General de Zona No.1. Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. 5 de Febrero y Héroes de la Independencia, Centro, La Paz, Baja California Sur, C.P. 23000. Mexico.
| | - Tania Zenteno-Savín
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, C.P. 23096. Mexico.
| | - Lía Celina Méndez-Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, C.P. 23096. Mexico.
| | - Alfonso Enrique Bencomo-Alvarez
- Hospital General de Zona No.1. Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. 5 de Febrero y Héroes de la Independencia, Centro, La Paz, Baja California Sur, C.P. 23000. Mexico.
| | - Alisa Thiede
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, 211 Irving I, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - Todd M O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 901 Koyukuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7750, USA.
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14
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Buckman KL, Lane O, Kotnik J, Bratkic A, Sprovieri F, Horvat M, Pirrone N, Evers DC, Chen CY. Spatial and taxonomic variation of mercury concentration in low trophic level fauna from the Mediterranean Sea. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2018; 27:1341-1352. [PMID: 30315417 PMCID: PMC6345403 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-018-1986-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Studies of mercury (Hg) in the Mediterranean Sea have focused on pollution sources, air-sea mercury exchange, abiotic mercury cycling, and seafood. Much less is known about methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations in the lower food web. Zooplankton and small fish were sampled from the neuston layer at both coastal and open sea stations in the Mediterranean Sea during three cruise campaigns undertaken in the fall of 2011 and the summers of 2012 and 2013. Zooplankton and small fish were sorted by morphospecies, and the most abundant taxa (e.g. euphausiids, isopods, hyperiid amphipods) analyzed for methylmercury (MeHg) concentration. Unfiltered water samples were taken during the 2011 and 2012 cruises and analyzed for MeHg concentration. Multiple taxa suggested elevated MeHg concentrations in the Tyrrhenian and Balearic Seas in comparison with more eastern and western stations in the Mediterranean Sea. Spatial variation in zooplankton MeHg concentration is positively correlated with single time point whole water MeHg concentration for euphausiids and mysids and negatively correlated with maximum chlorophyll a concentration for euphausiids, mysids, and "smelt" fish. Taxonomic variation in MeHg concentration appears driven by taxonomic grouping and feeding mode. Euphausiids, due to their abundance, relative larger size, importance as a food source for other fauna, and observed relationship with surface water MeHg are a good candidate biotic group to evaluate for use in monitoring the bioavailability of MeHg for trophic transfer in the Mediterranean and potentially globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L Buckman
- Dartmouth College, Department of Biological Sciences, Hanover, NH, USA.
| | - Oksana Lane
- Biodiversity Research Institute, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Jože Kotnik
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Arne Bratkic
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- International Postgraduate School Jožef Stefan, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Analytical, Environmental, and Geo-Chemistry, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Milena Horvat
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- International Postgraduate School Jožef Stefan, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - David C Evers
- Biodiversity Research Institute, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Celia Y Chen
- Dartmouth College, Department of Biological Sciences, Hanover, NH, USA
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15
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Beached bachelors: An extensive study on the largest recorded sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus mortality event in the North Sea. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201221. [PMID: 30086178 PMCID: PMC6080757 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Between the 8th January and the 25th February 2016, the largest sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus mortality event ever recorded in the North Sea occurred with 30 sperm whales stranding in five countries within six weeks. All sperm whales were immature males. Groups were stratified by size, with the smaller animals stranding in the Netherlands, and the largest in England. The majority (n = 27) of the stranded animals were necropsied and/or sampled, allowing for an international and comprehensive investigation into this mortality event. The animals were in fair to good nutritional condition and, aside from the pathologies caused by stranding, did not exhibit significant evidence of disease or trauma. Infectious agents were found, including various parasite species, several bacterial and fungal pathogens and a novel alphaherpesvirus. In nine of the sperm whales a variety of marine litter was found. However, none of these findings were considered to have been the primary cause of the stranding event. Potential anthropogenic and environmental factors that may have caused the sperm whales to enter the North Sea were assessed. Once sperm whales enter the North Sea and head south, the water becomes progressively shallower (<40 m), making this region a global hotspot for sperm whale strandings. We conclude that the reasons for sperm whales to enter the southern North Sea are the result of complex interactions of extrinsic environmental factors. As such, these large mortality events seldom have a single ultimate cause and it is only through multidisciplinary, collaborative approaches that potentially multifactorial large-scale stranding events can be effectively investigated.
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16
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Mazzariol S, Centelleghe C, Cozzi B, Povinelli M, Marcer F, Ferri N, Di Francesco G, Badagliacca P, Profeta F, Olivieri V, Guccione S, Cocumelli C, Terracciano G, Troiano P, Beverelli M, Garibaldi F, Podestà M, Marsili L, Fossi MC, Mattiucci S, Cipriani P, De Nurra D, Zaccaroni A, Rubini S, Berto D, de Quiros YB, Fernandez A, Morell M, Giorda F, Pautasso A, Modesto P, Casalone C, Di Guardo G. Multidisciplinary studies on a sick-leader syndrome-associated mass stranding of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) along the Adriatic coast of Italy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11577. [PMID: 30068967 PMCID: PMC6070578 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29966-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mass strandings of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) are rare in the Mediterranean Sea. Nevertheless, in 2014 a pod of 7 specimens stranded alive along the Italian coast of the Central Adriatic Sea: 3 individuals died on the beach after a few hours due to internal damages induced by prolonged recumbency; the remaining 4 whales were refloated after great efforts. All the dead animals were genetically related females; one was pregnant. All the animals were infected by dolphin morbillivirus (DMV) and the pregnant whale was also affected by a severe nephropathy due to a large kidney stone. Other analyses ruled out other possible relevant factors related to weather conditions or human activities. The results of multidisciplinary post-mortem analyses revealed that the 7 sperm whales entered the Adriatic Sea encountering adverse weather conditions and then kept heading northward following the pregnant but sick leader of the pod, thereby reaching the stranding site. DMV infection most likely played a crucial role in impairing the health condition and orientation abilities of the whales. They did not steer back towards deeper waters, but eventually stranded along the Central Adriatic Sea coastline, a real trap for sperm whales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Mazzariol
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Bruno Cozzi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Michele Povinelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Federica Marcer
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Di Francesco
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, Italy
| | - Pietro Badagliacca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, Italy
| | - Francesca Profeta
- University of Teramo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Località Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | | | | | - Cristiano Cocumelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana M. Aleandri, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliana Terracciano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana M. Aleandri, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Troiano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| | - Matteo Beverelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Foggia, Italy
| | | | | | - Letizia Marsili
- Department of Physical Science, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical Science, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Simonetta Mattiucci
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Cipriani
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele De Nurra
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Silva Rubini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Yara Beraldo de Quiros
- Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety, Universitad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernandez
- Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety, Universitad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Maria Morell
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (Inserm UMR 1051), Montpellier, France
| | - Federica Giorda
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Val d'Aosta, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pautasso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Val d'Aosta, Torino, Italy
| | - Paola Modesto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Val d'Aosta, Torino, Italy
| | - Cristina Casalone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Val d'Aosta, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Guardo
- University of Teramo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Località Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
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Rubini S, Frisoni P, Russotto C, Pedriali N, Mignone W, Grattarola C, Giorda F, Pautasso A, Barbieri S, Cozzi B, Mazzariol S, Gaudio RM. The diatoms test in veterinary medicine: A pilot study on cetaceans and sea turtles. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 290:e19-e23. [PMID: 30025595 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Fishing activities are considered one of the most relevant threats for cetaceans and sea turtles conservation since these animals are sometimes found dead entangled in fishing gears. Currently, postmortem diagnosis is based mainly on the presence of nets and lines on the body and the related marks and injuries evident at gross examination. A more detailed and objective evidence is needed to clarify doubts cases and the diatoms technique, used in forensic human medicine, could support drowning diagnosis also in this field. Diatoms' investigation was implemented to be applied in marine vertebrate on 8 striped (Stenella coeruleoalba) and 1 bottlenose (Tursiops truncatus) dolphins and 5 sea turtles (Caretta caretta) stranded along the Italian coastlines with a likely cause of death hypothized on necropsies carried out by veterinary pathologists. Diatoms were microscopically searched in the bone marrow collected from long bones implementing protocols used in human medicine and their presence was observed in 4 cetaceans and 2 sea turtles. Despite a clear relation between diatoms' presence and amount and the likely cause of death was not proved due to the poor number of samples, the higher burden of diatoms was found in 3 animals deemed to be death for the interaction with human activity. Despite more studied are necessary to identify the possible relation between the cause of death and diatoms' findings, the present study implemented this technique to be adapted to marine animals, confirming its possible application also in veterinary forensic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silva Rubini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Sezione di Ferrara, Via Modena 483, 44044 Cassana, FE, Italy
| | - Paolo Frisoni
- Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Russotto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Sezione di Ferrara, Via Modena 483, 44044 Cassana, FE, Italy
| | - Natascia Pedriali
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Sezione di Ferrara, Via Modena 483, 44044 Cassana, FE, Italy
| | - Walter Mignone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Nizza 4, 18100 Imperia, Italy
| | - Carla Grattarola
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Giorda
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pautasso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy
| | - Stefania Barbieri
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Igiene e Medicina Preventiva, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bruno Cozzi
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata e Alimentazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, AGRIPOLIS, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Sandro Mazzariol
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata e Alimentazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, AGRIPOLIS, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.
| | - Rosa Maria Gaudio
- Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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18
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Cáceres-Saez I, Haro D, Blank O, Aguayo Lobo A, Dougnac C, Arredondo C, Cappozzo HL, Guevara SR. High status of mercury and selenium in false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens, Owen 1846) stranded on Southern South America: A possible toxicological concern? CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 199:637-646. [PMID: 29462769 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.02.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The study was carried out to determine Hg and Se concentrations in false killer whales stranded on the Estrecho de Magallanes, Chile, South America. Tissue samples of five mature specimens were analyzed (two females and three males). Mean Hg concentration in liver 1068 (234) μg g-1 dry weight (DW) (standard deviation in parenthesis) was markedly higher than those in kidney 272 (152) μg g-1 DW, lung 423 (325) μg g-1 DW, spleen 725 (696) μg g-1 DW, muscle 118 (94) μg g-1 DW and testicle 18.0 (2.8) μg g-1 DW. Mean Se concentration in liver, 398 (75) μg g-1 DW, was higher than those in kidney 162 (69) μg g-1 DW, lung 128 (84) μg g-1 DW, spleen 268 (245) μg g-1 DW, muscle 47 (38) μg g-1 DW and testicle 25.4 (2.1) μg g-1 DW. Positive correlations were found between Hg and Se molar concentrations in muscle, lung, spleen and kidney. Molar ratio of Se/Hg in liver, lung and muscle were <1, but those in kidney and testicle were markedly >1 suggesting a Se protection against Hg toxicity. In all the examined specimens Hg values exceeded the toxic thresholds defined for hepatic damage in marine mammals, with Se/Hg molar ratios below 1 implying limited protective action of Se. Generally, our results showed that individuals are carrying a significant burden, reflecting a high exposure to this toxic metal. This constitutes the first report on Hg and Se levels for a large subantarctic odontocete in South America region, providing insights into their contamination status and with information to the understanding of possible impacts on wild populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Cáceres-Saez
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia", Avenida Ángel Gallardo 470 (C1405DJR), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Daniela Haro
- Laboratorio de Ecofisiología y Ecología Isotópica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Ñuñoa, Santiago, Chile; Centro Bahía Lomas, Universidad Santo Tomas, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Olivia Blank
- Clínica Veterinaria Timaukel y Centro de Rehabilitación de Aves Leñadura (CRAL), José Pithon 01316, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Anelio Aguayo Lobo
- Instituto Antártico Chileno (INACH), Plaza Muñoz Gamero 1055, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Catherine Dougnac
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Av. Santa Rosa 11735, La Pintana, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristóbal Arredondo
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Av. Santa Rosa 11735, La Pintana, Santiago, Chile
| | - H Luis Cappozzo
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia", Avenida Ángel Gallardo 470 (C1405DJR), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sergio Ribeiro Guevara
- Laboratorio de Análisis por Activación Neutrónica, Centro Atómico Bariloche, Av E. Bustillo km 9.500, Bariloche, Argentina
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19
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Mazzariol S, Centelleghe C, Di Provvido A, Di Renzo L, Cardeti G, Cersini A, Fichi G, Petrella A, Di Francesco CE, Mignone W, Casalone C, Di Guardo G. Dolphin Morbillivirus Associated with a Mass Stranding of Sperm Whales, Italy. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 23:144-146. [PMID: 27983493 PMCID: PMC5176224 DOI: 10.3201/eid2301.160239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In September 2014, seven sperm whales were stranded along Italy’s Adriatic coastline. Postmortem investigations on 3 female adult whales and 1 male fetus carried by the largest female revealed molecular and immunohistochemical evidence of dolphin morbillivirus infection. A possible role of the virus in the stranding event was considered.
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20
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Oxidative Biochemistry Disbalance and Changes on Proteomic Profile in Salivary Glands of Rats Induced by Chronic Exposure to Methylmercury. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017; 2017:5653291. [PMID: 28811865 PMCID: PMC5546058 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5653291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is one of the most toxic mercury species, which can cause many systemic damages, but little is known about its effect in the salivary glands. This study aimed to analyze the mercury levels, oxidative stress, and proteomic profile in parotid, submandibular, and sublingual salivary glands of rats, after chronic MeHg intoxication. Two groups of twenty male Wistar rats (90 days of age) were used on the experiment. MeHg group was intoxicated by intragastric gavage with MeHg at a dose of 0.04 mg/kg/day for 60 days, while the control group received only oil. After the period of intoxication, the glands were collected for evaluation of total mercury levels, proteomic profile, and oxidative balance by analyzing the antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and nitrite levels. Our results have showed that mercury levels were significant in all three glands compared to the respective control. It also showed lower levels of ACAP, as well as higher LPO and nitrite levels. The proteomic profile presented impairments on structural components of cytoskeleton, metabolic pathways, and oxidative biochemistry. Thus, the exposure to MeHg was able to generate oxidative stress that could be associated with changes in the proteomic profile of salivary glands.
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21
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Obeid PJ, Fares SA, Farhat GN, El-Khoury B, Nassif RM, El-Nakat J, Dhaini HR. Mercury health risk assessment among a young adult Lebanese population. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:9370-9378. [PMID: 28233208 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-8621-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) exposure represents a significant public health concern at a global level. This study aims at assessing Hg exposure and risk among Lebanese young adults based on Hg biomonitoring and seafood intake. A group of 166 young adults were administered a questionnaire to assess Hg exposure and were asked to provide a hair sample. Risk assessment was performed: (1) using the US Environmental Protection Agency Hazard Quotient (HQ) model based on fish intake and previously studied local fish Hg concentrations, and (2) by determining the total hair Hg concentration (THHg) using continuous flow-chemical vapor generation atomic absorption spectrometry. Differences in THHg across demographic and exposure subgroups were tested using t test or ANOVA. Correlations between THHg concentrations, fish consumption, and HQ were determined by computing Pearson's r. Higher THHg correlated with higher consumption of Mediterranean rabbitfish/spinefoots (r = 0.27; p = 0.001) and geographical location (p < 0.001) in the bivariate analysis, and remained significant in the adjusted multivariable linear regression model (geographical location: ß = 0.255, 95%CI 0.121-0.388; rabbitfish/spinefoots consumption: ß = 0.016, 95%CI 0.004-0.027). No significant correlations were found between HQ and THHg. In conclusion, this is the first study examining hair Hg levels and fish consumption in a young adult Lebanese population. Our findings constitute valuable baseline data for a local fish advisory and Hg monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre J Obeid
- Department of Chemistry, University of Balamand, Al Kurah, Balamand, Lebanon
| | - Souha A Fares
- Hariri School of Nursing, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghada N Farhat
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Bilal El-Khoury
- Department of Chemistry, University of Balamand, Al Kurah, Balamand, Lebanon
| | - Rana M Nassif
- Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - John El-Nakat
- Department of Chemistry, University of Balamand, Al Kurah, Balamand, Lebanon
| | - Hassan R Dhaini
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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22
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Mazzariol S, Marsili L, Di Guardo G. Cetacean mass strandings and multidisciplinary work. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 148:32-33. [PMID: 26800488 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Mazzariol
- University of Padova, Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Hygiene, Agripolis, Viale dell'Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy.
| | - Letizia Marsili
- University of Siena, Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, Via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Di Guardo
- University of Teramo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Località Piano d'Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
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23
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Squadrone S, Chiaravalle E, Abete MC. Response to: Letter to the Editor: "Cetacean mass stranding and multidisciplinary work". CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 148:292-293. [PMID: 26812371 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Squadrone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy.
| | - E Chiaravalle
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, Italy
| | - M C Abete
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy
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24
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Bergés-Tiznado ME, Fernando Márquez-Farías J, Torres-Rojas Y, Galván-Magaña F, Páez-Osuna F. Mercury and selenium in tissues and stomach contents of the migratory sailfish, Istiophorus platypterus, from the Eastern Pacific: Concentration, biomagnification, and dietary intake. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 101:349-358. [PMID: 26490411 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Mercury and selenium were assessed in the sailfish, Istiophorus platypterus, from the Eastern Pacific. Sixty-seven individuals were sampled, muscle, liver, kidney, gonads and the prey found in the stomach contents were isolated during fishing 2011-2013 tournaments. Hg exhibited the following pattern (μg g(-1) wet weight): liver (0.57 ± 0.07)>muscle (0.56 ± 0.04)>kidney (0.44 ± 0.08)>gonad (0.14 ± 0.01). The maximum concentration of Se was found in kidneys (14.1 ± 1.9 μg g(-1)), and the minimum in muscles (0.67 ± 0.03 μg g(-1)). High Se:Hg ratios were found for muscle (4.1 ± 0.3), kidney (132.4 ± 12.1), liver (54.0 ± 4.4) and gonads (88.2 ± 7.9); Hg:Se molar ratios were several orders of magnitude lower (muscle<0.4 and liver, kidney and gonad<0.03). Sailfish feed mainly on fishes and cephalopods with low Hg levels (<0.13 μg g(-1)), these results indicate biomagnification of Hg and Se. The muscle of I. platypterus should be consumed (according the provisional tolerable weekly intake) by people cautiously so as not to exceed the recommended intake of 215 g per week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena E Bergés-Tiznado
- Posgrado en Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, P.O. Box 811, C.P. 82000 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - J Fernando Márquez-Farías
- Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Paseo Claussen S/N Col. Los Pinos, C.P. 82000 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Yassir Torres-Rojas
- Instituto de Ecología, Pesquerías y Oceanografía del Golfo de México, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche (EPOMEX-UAC), Campus 6. Av. Héroe de Nacozari #480, C.P. 24029 Campeche, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Felipe Galván-Magaña
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN S/N Col. Playa de Santa Rita, C.P. 23096 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - Federico Páez-Osuna
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, P.O. Box 811, C.P. 82000 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico; Miembro de El Colegio de Sinaloa, Antonio Rosales 435 Pte, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico.
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