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Bradford MA, Mallory ML, O'Driscoll NJ. Ecology and environmental characteristics influence methylmercury bioaccumulation in coastal invertebrates. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 346:140502. [PMID: 37866498 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140502] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Quantifying mercury (Hg) concentrations in invertebrates is fundamental to determining risk for bioaccumulation in higher trophic level organisms in coastal food webs. Bioaccumulation is influenced by local mercury concentrations, site geochemistry, individual feeding ecologies, and trophic position. We sampled seven species of invertebrates from five coastal sites in the Minas Basin, Bay of Fundy, and determined body concentrations of methylmercury (MeHg), total mercury (THg), and stable isotopes of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C). To evaluate the effects of environmental chemistry on Hg production and bioaccumulation, bulk sediments from all sites were analysed for THg, %Loss on ignition (LOI) (carbon), and sulfur isotopes (δ34S), and concentrations of MeHg, Total Organic Carbon (TOC), sulfate, and sulfide were measured in porewaters. The mean concentration of MeHg in tissues for all invertebrates sampled was 10.03 ± 7.04 ng g-1). MeHg in porewater (mean = 0.22-1.59 ng L-1) was the strongest predictor of invertebrate MeHg, but sediment δ34S (-0.80-14.1‰) was also a relatively strong predictor. δ34S in tissues (measured in three species; Corophium volutator, Ilyanassa obsoleta, and Littorina littorea) were positively related to MeHg in invertebrates (r = 0.55, 0.22, and 0.71 respectively), and when used in combination with δ15N and δ13C values improved predictions of Hg concentrations in biota. Hg concentrations in the amphipod Corophium volutator (mean MeHg = 10.60 ± 1.90 ng g-1) were particularly well predicted using porewater and sediment chemistry, highlighting this species as a useful bioindicator of Hg contamination in sediments of the Bay of Fundy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly A Bradford
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada.
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Biology Department, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Nelson J O'Driscoll
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
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2
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Wilman B, Bełdowska M, Rychter A, Popławska A. Factors determining bioaccumulation of neurotoxicant Hg in the zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha): Influence of biometric parameters, sex and storage of shell. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115718. [PMID: 37922749 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
One of benthic organisms exposed to contact with mercury in the southern Baltic is alien species of clam: Dreissena polymorpha. As this organism is increasingly dynamic in various regions of the world including the southern Baltic region, it is reasonable to ask whether it tolerates elevated concentrations of xenobiotics? Does it effectively eliminate Hg? The study determined the effects of biometric parameters and water temperature on the rate of accumulation and efficiency of eliminating Hg from body. Investigations focused on the shell which represents poorly-recognized role in the process of Hg distribution in clams. The results showed that especially during warm season, clams effectively reduced the levels of Hg in their body by the biodilution of Hg and reproduction. Important factor influencing detoxification was Hg transfer from the soft tissue to the shell. This protects the soft tissue against the toxic effect of Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartłomiej Wilman
- Department of Chemical Oceanography and Marine Geology, Laboratory of Toxic Substances Transformation, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk, Al. Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Bełdowska
- Department of Chemical Oceanography and Marine Geology, Laboratory of Toxic Substances Transformation, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk, Al. Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Agata Rychter
- Institute of Technology, State University of Applied Sciences in Elbląg, Wojska Polskiego 1, 82-300 Elbląg, Poland
| | - Angela Popławska
- Department of Chemical Oceanography and Marine Geology, Laboratory of Toxic Substances Transformation, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk, Al. Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
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3
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Blazer VS, Walsh HL, Sperry AJ, Raines B, Willacker JJ, Eagles-Smith CA. A multi-level assessment of biological effects associated with mercury concentrations in smallmouth bass, Micropterus dolomieu. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 329:121688. [PMID: 37088253 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury (THg) was measured in muscle (fillet) and liver tissue of adult smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu collected at multiple sites in the Potomac and Susquehanna River drainages within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Smallmouth bass in these drainages have experienced episodic mortality events, a high prevalence of skin lesions and reproductive endocrine disruption (intersex or testicular oocytes and plasma vitellogenin in males). A multi-level assessment of general and reproductive health including indicators at the organismal, organ, cellular and molecular levels was conducted on adult smallmouth bass during the spring (prespawn) season. Concentrations of THg were correlated with increased visible abnormalities, increased macrophage aggregates and tissue parasite burdens. In male bass positive correlations of THg were observed with plasma vitellogenin and hepatic transcript abundance of estrogen receptor β1 and androgen receptor α, while there was a negative association with estrogen receptors α and β2 and androgen receptors β. In female bass there was a negative correlation between THg and plasma vitellogenin as well as hepatic transcript abundance of vitellogenin, choriogenin, estrogen receptor β2 and 17β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Associations of THg concentrations with various biological indicators suggest mercury may be an important environmental stressor contributing to the observed adverse effects in smallmouth bass populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki S Blazer
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Leetown Research Laboratory, 11649 Leetown Road, Kearneysville, WV, 25430, USA.
| | - Heather L Walsh
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Leetown Research Laboratory, 11649 Leetown Road, Kearneysville, WV, 25430, USA
| | - Adam J Sperry
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Leetown Research Laboratory, 11649 Leetown Road, Kearneysville, WV, 25430, USA
| | - Brenna Raines
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Leetown Research Laboratory, 11649 Leetown Road, Kearneysville, WV, 25430, USA
| | - James J Willacker
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
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Elliott KH, Braune BM, Elliott JE. Beyond bulk δ 15N: Combining a suite of stable isotopic measures improves the resolution of the food webs mediating contaminant signals across space, time and communities. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 148:106370. [PMID: 33476789 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Top predators are used as indicators of contaminant trends across space and time. However, signals are integrated over complex food webs, and variation in diet may confound such signals. Trophic position, assessed by bulk δ15N, is widely used to infer the variation in diet relevant to contamination, yet a single variable cannot completely describe complex food webs. Thus, we examined relationships across three aquatic systems varying from a single species to a small food web using bulk values from four isotopes and 21 amino acid-specific values. Because variation in baseline ('source') δ15N can confound estimates of trophic position , we calculated trophic position from the difference between δ15Ntrophic (δ15N for amino acids that change with trophic position) and δ15Nsource (δ15N for amino acids that do not change with trophic position). Across all three systems, variation in δ15Nsource explained over half of the variation in bulk δ15N, and stable isotope values that reflected the base of the food web (δ13C, δ18O, δ34S) predicted contaminants as well or better than δ15N-which was supported by a meta-analysis of other studies. In ospreys feeding in lakes, variation in δ15Nsource across space created a spurious relationship between ΣDDT and apparent trophic position, and masked a relationship between ΣPCB and trophic position. In a seabird guild, changes in diet over time obscured temporal variation in contaminants over five decades. In Arctic fish and invertebrates, more accurate trophic magnification factors were calculated using δ15Ntrophic-source. Thus, (1) using δ15Ntrophic-source, instead of bulk δ15N, avoided incorrect conclusions and improved accuracy of trophic magnification factors necessary to assess risk to top predators; and (2) diet assessed with multiple spatial isotopes, rather than δ15N alone, was essential to understand patterns in contaminants across space, time and biological communities. Trophic position was most important for lipophilic 'legacy' contaminants (ΣDDT, ΣPCB) and habitat was most important for other contaminants (ΣPBDE, ΣPFAS, mercury). We argue that the use of amino acid-specific analysis of δ15N alongside 'non-trophic' isotopes should be a core feature of any study that examines the influence of trophic position on chemical pollution, as required for a chemical to be added to international conventions such as the Stockholm Convention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue H9X 3V9, Canada.
| | - Birgit M Braune
- Science & Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - John E Elliott
- Science & Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta V4K 3N2, Canada
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Knott KK, O'Hearn R, Niswonger D, Lawson L, North R, Obrecht D, Tracy-Smith E, Voss R, Wenzel J, McKee M. Physical, Chemical, and Biological Factors that Contribute to the Variability of Mercury Concentrations in Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides from Missouri Reservoirs. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2020; 78:284-293. [PMID: 31858198 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-019-00697-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Large-bodied predatory sportfish from Missouri reservoirs can contain elevated methylmercury concentrations that are of concern to the health of consumers. The concentration of total mercury (tHg) in the muscle (which > 95% is in the methylated-Hg form) of harvestable-sized largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides; LMB) was examined to determine which factors contributed to the variability of tHg concentration in sportfish populations among Missouri reservoirs. Mean tHg concentrations in LMB from each reservoir were compared to physical and chemical characteristics of the reservoir and to biological attributes of each LMB population. Low concentrations of tHg (70-170 ng/g wet weight) in LMB from large reservoirs (surface area ≥ 35,680 acres) were likely related to the dilution of chemical Hg forms with water volume and depth. The highest tHg concentrations in LMB (268-542 ng/g) were from reservoirs with low particulate inorganic material (< 1.5 mg/L) and chlorophyll a concentrations (< 14.6 μg/L), and from LMB populations with a low proportion of large fish (proportional size distribution of LMB > 12 inches was < 33%). These relationships suggest that resource competition among LMB likely contributed to tHg bioaccumulation in reservoirs < 930 acres. Small reservoirs located in northern Missouri also may have greater methylation potential due to warmer water temperatures and anoxic conditions, but more data are needed to confirm these interactions. Fish consumption advisories for reservoirs with large surface area and volume could be reduced from one fish meal per month to one per week. To improve Missouri fisheries and protect consumers, management strategies to limit methylation and improve fish growth should be considered to reduce methylmercury bioaccumulation in small- and medium-sized reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina K Knott
- Environmental Health Unit, Resource Science Division, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, Columbia, MO, USA.
| | - Rebecca O'Hearn
- Environmental Health Unit, Resource Science Division, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Darby Niswonger
- Fisheries Division, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Larry Lawson
- Bureau of Environmental Epidemiology, Division of Community and Public Health, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Jefferson City, MO, USA
- E.W. Shell Fisheries Station, School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, 2101 N. College St., Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Rebecca North
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Anheuser-Bush Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Dan Obrecht
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Anheuser-Bush Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Emily Tracy-Smith
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Anheuser-Bush Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Robert Voss
- Water Protection Program, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Jefferson City, MO, USA
| | - Jeff Wenzel
- Bureau of Environmental Epidemiology, Division of Community and Public Health, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Jefferson City, MO, USA
| | - Mike McKee
- Environmental Health Unit, Resource Science Division, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, Columbia, MO, USA
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Rodríguez-Estival J, Morales-Machuca C, Pareja-Carrera J, Ortiz-Santaliestra ME, Mateo R. Food safety risk assessment of metal pollution in crayfish from two historical mining areas: Accounting for bioavailability and cooking extractability. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 185:109682. [PMID: 31557570 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.109682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Here we characterize the bioaccumulation of mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) from two river courses in Central Spain that are impacted by historical Hg and Pb mining activities, respectively. We estimate the absolute oral bioavailability of metals in crayfish tissues by means of in vitro bioaccessibility simulations, and assess whether their consumption may imply a health risk for humans by estimating target hazard quotients and safe consumption rates. We also study the effect of cooking crayfish on the mobilization of the metal body burden in the context of the traditional Spanish cuisine. The results showed that crayfish from the mining districts accumulated a high level of Hg and Pb pollution in both the tail muscle and the carcass. The in vitro bioaccessibility of Hg and Pb in the edible part was 27.86 ± 4.05 and 33.73 ± 5.91%, respectively. Absolute bioavailability was estimated to be 38.31 for Hg, and 20.21 (adults) and 67.35% (children) for Pb. Risk indices indicated that, even after adjusting for bioavailability, it is not safe to consume crayfish from the mining-impacted rivers because of their high levels of Hg and Pb. Using the carcass as a condiment for flavouring should also be avoided. The cooking procedure extracted relatively small amounts of the total Hg (8.92 ± 2.13%) and Pb (1.68 ± 0.29%) body burden. Further research that will support human and ecological risk assessment, along with the implementation of advisory measures for the local population as regards crayfish consumption, are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Rodríguez-Estival
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Carlos Morales-Machuca
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Jennifer Pareja-Carrera
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 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.
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC - CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain.
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Roxanna Razavi N, Cushman SF, Halfman JD, Massey T, Beutner R, Cleckner LB. Mercury bioaccumulation in stream food webs of the Finger Lakes in central New York State, USA. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 172:265-272. [PMID: 30711861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.01.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Studies of mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation in streams draining both forested and agricultural watersheds are not common. Sixteen streams were sampled in the Finger Lakes region in central New York State with a mean agricultural land cover of 48%. Stream fish (Blacknose Dace, Rhinichthys atratulus, an invertivore; and Creek Chub, Semotilus atromaculatus, an omnivore) were collected and analyzed for total Hg (THg), and macroinvertebrates and periphyton were collected and analyzed for methylmercury (MeHg) determination. The effect of water chemistry, land cover, and macroinvertebrate MeHg was assessed as predictors of fish Hg concentrations. Blacknose Dace had significantly higher THg concentrations compared to Creek Chub (229 ng/g vs. 195 ng/g dry weight, respectively), and predatory and omnivorous macroinvertebrates (i.e., Perlidae and Cambaridae) were found to have significantly higher MeHg concentrations compared to other functional feeding groups. Mixed effects models identified macroinvertebrate MeHg concentrations as predictors of stream fish THg concentrations. Partition modeling found fish total length and total suspended solids predicted Blacknose Dace with 'High' vs 'Low' Hg (≥ or < 90 ng/g wet weight, respectively). Overall, stream fish THg concentrations observed were not of concern, unlike other regions in New York State such as the Adirondack Mountains, but a significant proportion of Blacknose Dace (22 - 73%) and Creek Chub (5 - 69%) would be considered a risk to a range of sensitive consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Roxanna Razavi
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA.
| | - Susan F Cushman
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Department of Biology, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Environmental Studies Program, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - John D Halfman
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Environmental Studies Program, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Department of Geoscience, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - Trevor Massey
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - Robert Beutner
- IT Services, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
| | - Lisa B Cleckner
- Finger Lakes Institute, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA; Environmental Studies Program, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY 14556, USA
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Choi H, Jeong E, Nguyen VH, Hanh DVB, Dan NP, Shin KH, Han S. Characteristics of sediment affecting monomethylmercury accumulation in benthic fish of the Mekong Delta. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2019; 38:503-510. [PMID: 30525225 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4327] [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: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The Mekong River Delta (Vietnam) is a flat, low-lying area formed by a dense network of main tributaries of the Tien and Hau Rivers, providing a nourishing habitat for aquatic organisms. A sediment survey of the total mercury (Hg), monomethylmercury (MMHg), and geochemical variables was carried out from the coast to 131 km upriver to establish an overview of the environmental factors affecting the bioaccumulation of Hg and MMHg in delta fish. The survey results revealed that the total Hg (12-90 ng g-1 ) and MMHg (0.014-1.5 ng g-1 ) concentrations were in the range of uncontaminated sediment. Statistical analysis using various geochemical factors demonstrated that sediment MMHg concentrations and fractions of MMHg over total Hg in sediment were higher at sites with higher total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen sites. The current levels of TOC in Mekong Delta sediment are relatively low (0.2-1.5%); however, expanding dam constructions and aquacultures related to salinity intrusion are reinforcing the carbon burial rate by increasing the fine fractions. Based on the positive relationship found between MMHg and TOC in sediment, proper management efforts are necessary to reduce MMHg production in the Mekong River Delta sediment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:503-510. © 2018 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyojung Choi
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunji Jeong
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Viet Huu Nguyen
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dang Vu Bich Hanh
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Ho Chi Minh City District 10, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Phuoc Dan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Ho Chi Minh City District 10, Vietnam
| | - Kyung-Hoon Shin
- Department of Marine and Convergence Sciences, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghee Han
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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Góngora E, Braune BM, Elliott KH. Nitrogen and sulfur isotopes predict variation in mercury levels in Arctic seabird prey. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:907-914. [PMID: 30301115 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) biotransformation and biomagnification are processes that affect Hg burdens in wildlife. To interpret variation in Hg in seabird eggs, used as Hg bioindicators in the Arctic, it is important to understand how Hg biomagnifies through the food web. We evaluated the use of δ34S, along with other commonly used stable isotope signatures (δ15N and δ13C), for the determination of possible sources of Hg in an Arctic food web (56 individuals of 15 species of fish and invertebrates). Hg correlated with δ34S (R2 = 0.72). When the combined effects of δ34S and δ15N were considered in mixed-effects models, both δ34S and δ15N together described Hg patterns in Arctic food webs better than either isotope alone. Our results demonstrate the usefulness of δ34S to account for variation in Hg among marine animals and to study the possible underlying effects that MeHg production may have on Hg pathways in Arctic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Góngora
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue H9X 3V9, Canada.
| | - Birgit M Braune
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Raven Road, Ottawa K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue H9X 3V9, Canada
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Davis RP, Sullivan SMP, Stefanik KC. Reductions in fish-community contamination following lowhead dam removal linked more to shifts in food-web structure than sediment pollution. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 231:671-680. [PMID: 28850935 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.07.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent increases in dam removals have prompted research on ecological and geomorphic river responses, yet contaminant dynamics following dam removals are poorly understood. We investigated changes in sediment concentrations and fish-community body burdens of mercury (Hg), selenium (Se), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and chlorinated pesticides before and after two lowhead dam removals in the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers (Columbus, Ohio). These changes were then related to documented shifts in fish food-web structure. Seven study reaches were surveyed from 2011 to 2015, including controls, upstream and downstream of the previous dams, and upstream restored vs. unrestored. For most contaminants, fish-community body burdens declined following dam removal and converged across study reaches by the last year of the study in both rivers. Aldrin and dieldrin body burdens in the Olentangy River declined more rapidly in the upstream-restored vs. the upstream-unrestored reach, but were indistinguishable by year three post dam removal. No upstream-downstream differences were observed in body burdens in the Olentangy River, but aldrin and dieldrin body burdens were 138 and 148% higher, respectively, in downstream reaches than in upstream reaches of the Scioto River following dam removal. The strongest relationships between trophic position and body burdens were observed with PCBs and Se in the Scioto River, and with dieldrin in the Olentangy River. Food-chain length - a key measure of trophic structure - was only weakly related to aldrin body burdens, and unrelated to other contaminants. Overall, we demonstrate that lowhead dam removal may effectively reduce ecosystem contamination, largely via shifts in fish food-web dynamics versus sediment contaminant concentrations. This study presents some of the first findings documenting ecosystem contamination following dam removal and will be useful in informing future dam removals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Davis
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, 2021 Coffey Road, Columbus, OH 43210, United States.
| | - S Mažeika P Sullivan
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, 2021 Coffey Road, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Kay C Stefanik
- School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, 2021 Coffey Road, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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Igwe O, Una CO, Abu E, Adepehin EJ. Environmental risk assessment of lead-zinc mining: a case study of Adudu metallogenic province, middle Benue Trough, Nigeria. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:492. [PMID: 28884376 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-6191-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Assessment of the impacts of lead-zinc mining in Adudu-Imon metallogenic province was carried out. Reconnaissance and detailed field studies were done. Lithologies, stream sediments, farmland soils, mine tailings, artificial pond water, stream water, well water, and borehole water were collected and subjected to atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses. Geochemical maps were generated using ArcGIS 10.1. Significant contamination with cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), and lead (Pb) was recorded in the collected water samples. Virtually all collected soil samples were observed to be highly contaminated when compared with the European Union environmental policy standard. The discharge of mining effluents through farmlands to the Bakebu stream, which drains the area, further exposes the dwellers of this environment to the accumulation of potentially harmful metals (PHMs) in their bodies through the consumption of food crops, aquatic animals, and domestic uses of the water collected from the stream channels. The study revealed non-conformity of past mining operations in the Adudu-Imon province to existing mining laws in Nigeria. Inhabitants of this region should stop farming in the vicinity of the mines, fishing from the Bakebu stream channels should be discouraged, and domestic use of the water should be condemned, even as concerned government agencies put necessary mercenaries in place to ensure conformity of miners to standard mining regulations in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogbonnaya Igwe
- Geotechnical and Environmental Unit, Department of Geology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Chuku Okoro Una
- Department of Applied Geology, Wesley University Ondo, Ondo, Nigeria.
| | - Ezekiel Abu
- Geotechnical and Environmental Unit, Department of Geology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
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Clayden MG, Lescord GL, Kidd KA, Wang X, Muir DCG, O'Driscoll NJ. Using sulfur stable isotopes to assess mercury bioaccumulation and biomagnification in temperate lake food webs. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2017; 36:661-670. [PMID: 27648524 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3615] [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: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen and carbon stable isotopes (δ15 N, δ13 C) are commonly used to understand mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation and biomagnification in freshwater food webs. Though sulfur isotopes (δ34 S) can distinguish between energy sources from the water column (aqueous sulfate) and from sediments to freshwater organisms, little is known about whether δ34 S can help interpret variable Hg concentrations in aquatic species or food webs. Seven acidic lakes in Kejimkujik National Park (Nova Scotia, Canada) were sampled for biota, water, and sediments in 2009 and 2010. Fishes, zooplankton, and macroinvertebrates were analyzed for δ34 S, δ15 N, δ13 C, and Hg (methyl Hg in invertebrates, total Hg in fishes); aqueous sulfate and profundal sediments were analyzed for δ34 S. Within lakes, mean δ34 S values in sediments and sulfate differed between 0.53‰ and 1.98‰, limiting their use as tracers of energy sources to the food webs. However, log-Hg and δ34 S values were negatively related (slopes -0.14 to -0.35, R2 0.20-0.39, p < 0.001-0.01) through each food web, and slopes were significantly different among lakes (analysis of covariance, lake × δ34 S interaction term p = 0.04). Despite these relationships, multiple regression analyses within each taxon showed that biotic Hg concentrations were generally better predicted by δ15 N and/or δ13 C. The results indicate that δ34 S values are predictive of Hg concentrations in these food webs, although the mechanisms underlying these relationships warrant further study. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:661-670. © 2016 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith G Clayden
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Biology Department, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Gretchen L Lescord
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Biology Department, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Karen A Kidd
- Canadian Rivers Institute and Biology Department, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Xiaowa Wang
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Canada Centre for Inland Waters, Environment Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Derek C G Muir
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Canada Centre for Inland Waters, Environment Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nelson J O'Driscoll
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Elliott KH, Elliott JE. Origin of Sulfur in Diet Drives Spatial and Temporal Mercury Trends in Seabird Eggs From Pacific Canada 1968-2015. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:13380-13386. [PMID: 27993060 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b05458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a neurotoxin that can be particularly harmful to top predators because it biomagnifies through the food web. Due to variation in the food web structure, variation in Hg exposure in predators may represent variation in diet rather than Hg availability. We measured Hg in eggs from six seabird species (N = 537) over 47 years. In contrast to expectation, storm-petrels feeding partially on invertebrates had the highest Hg burden while herons feeding on large fish had the lowest Hg burden. A multiple regression showed that Hg correlated with δ34S (R2 = 0.86) rather than trophic level (δ15N of "trophic" amino acids). Sulfate-rich environments (high δ34S) have sulfate-reducing bacteria that produce methylmercury. Variation in Hg within and among seabirds near the top of the food web was associated with variation in δ34S at the base of the food web more so than trophic position within the food web. Hg levels in seabirds only changed over time for those species where δ34S also varied in tandem; after accounting for diet (δ34S), there was no variation in Hg levels. Variation in Hg in seabirds across space and time was associated with the origin of sulfur in the diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University , Ste Anne-de-Bellevue Quebec, Canada H9X 3 V9
| | - John E Elliott
- Science & Technology Branch, Environment Canada , Delta British Columbia, Canada V4K 3N2
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Souza-Araujo J, Giarrizzo T, Lima MO, Souza MBG. Mercury and methyl mercury in fishes from Bacajá River (Brazilian Amazon): evidence for bioaccumulation and biomagnification. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2016; 89:249-263. [PMID: 27241551 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed total mercury (THg) and methyl mercury (MeHg) concentrations, bioaccumulation and biomagnification of THg through the food web in fishes consumed by indigenous communities of Bacajá River, the largest tributary of the right bank of Xingu River. In total, 496 fish (22 species) were sampled. Nine species had THg concentrations above the limit recommended by the World Health Organisation (0·5 µg g(-1) wet mass), and one exceeded the recommended level for Hg in predatory fishes by Brazilian law (1·0 µg g(-1) ). The average concentration of THg increased significantly with trophic guild (herbivorous to piscivorous) and trophic level, with higher accumulation in fishes with greater total length. Ninety-six per cent of all mercury was methylated. These results suggest that feeding habits determine THg concentrations in fishes and that Hg elimination rate is slow during growth, which allows greater accumulation. These findings show that fishes in the Bacajá River contain high concentrations of THg and MeHg.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Souza-Araujo
- Aquatic Ecology Group, Federal University of Pará, Avenida Perimetral 2651, Terra Firme, 66040170, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - T Giarrizzo
- Aquatic Ecology Group, Federal University of Pará, Avenida Perimetral 2651, Terra Firme, 66040170, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - M O Lima
- Evandro Chagas Institute, Environment Section, Rodovia BR-316, km 7, S/N, Levilândia, 67030000, Ananindeua, PA, Brazil
| | - M B G Souza
- Tractebel Engineering-LEME Engineering, Avenida dos Andradas 3000, Santa Efigênia, 30260070, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Velez C, Galvão P, Longo R, Malm O, Soares AMVM, Figueira E, Freitas R. Ruditapes philippinarum and Ruditapes decussatus under Hg environmental contamination. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:11890-11904. [PMID: 25869429 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4397-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The native species Ruditapes decussatus and the invasive species Ruditapes philippinarum have an important ecological role and socio-economic value, from the Atlantic and Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific region. In the aquatic environment, they are subjected to the presence of different contaminants, such as mercury (Hg) and its methylated form, methylmercury (MeHg). However, few studies have assessed the impacts of Hg on bivalves under environmental conditions, and little is known on bivalve oxidative stress patterns due to Hg contamination. Therefore, this study aims to assess the Hg contamination in sediments as well as the concentration of Hg and MeHg in R. decussatus and R. philippinarum, and to identify the detoxification strategies of both species living in sympatry, in an aquatic system with historical Hg contamination. The risk to human health due to the consumption of clams was also evaluated. The results obtained demonstrated that total Hg concentration found in sediments from the most contaminated area was higher than the maximum levels established by Sediment Quality Guidelines. This study further revealed that the total Hg and MeHg accumulation in both species was strongly correlated with the total Hg contamination of the sediments. Nonetheless, the THg concentration in both species was lower than maximum permissible limits (MPLs) of THg defined by international organizations. R. decussatus and R. philippinarum showed an increase in lipid peroxidation levels along with the increase of THg accumulation by clams. Nevertheless, for both species, no clear trend was obtained regarding the activity of antioxidant (superoxide dismutase, catalase) and biotransformation (glutathione S-transferase) enzymes and metallothioneins with the increase of THg in clams. Overall, the present work demonstrated that both species can be used as sentinel species of contamination and that the consumption of these clams does not constitute a risk for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Velez
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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Methylmercury exposure during early Xenopus laevis development affects cell proliferation and death but not neural progenitor specification. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2014; 47:102-13. [PMID: 25496965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2014.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a widespread environmental toxin that preferentially and adversely affects developing organisms. To investigate the impact of MeHg toxicity on the formation of the vertebrate nervous system at physiologically relevant concentrations, we designed a graded phenotype scale for evaluating Xenopus laevis embryos exposed to MeHg in solution. Embryos displayed a range of abnormalities in response to MeHg, particularly in brain development, which is influenced by both MeHg concentration and the number of embryos per ml of exposure solution. A TC50 of ~50μg/l and LC50 of ~100μg/l were found when maintaining embryos at a density of one per ml, and both increased with increasing embryo density. In situ hybridization and microarray analysis showed no significant change in expression of early neural patterning genes including sox2, en2, or delta; however a noticeable decrease was observed in the terminal neural differentiation genes GAD and xGAT, but not xVGlut. PCNA, a marker for proliferating cells, was negatively correlated with MeHg dose, with a significant reduction in cell number in the forebrain and spinal cord of exposed embryos by tadpole stages. Conversely, the number of apoptotic cells in neural regions detected by a TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) assay was significantly increased. These results provide evidence that disruption of embryonic neural development by MeHg may not be directly due to a loss of neural progenitor specification and gene transcription, but to a more general decrease in cell proliferation and increase in cell death throughout the developing nervous system.
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Ackerson JR, McKee MJ, Schmitt CJ, Brumbaugh WG. Implementation of a non-lethal biopsy punch monitoring program for mercury in smallmouth bass, Micropterus dolomieu Lacepède, from the Eleven Point River, Missouri. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2014; 92:125-131. [PMID: 24196376 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-013-1145-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A non-lethal biopsy method for monitoring mercury (Hg) concentrations in smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu; smallmouth) from the Eleven Point River in southern Missouri USA was evaluated. A biopsy punch was used to remove a muscle tissue plug from the area immediately below the anterior dorsal fin of 31 smallmouth. An additional 35 smallmouth (controls) were held identically except that no tissue plug was removed. After sampling, all fish were held in a concrete hatchery raceway for 6 weeks. Mean survival at the end of the holding period was 97 % for both groups. Smallmouth length, weight and Fulton's condition factor at the end of the holding period were also similar between plugged and non-plugged controls, indicating that the biopsy procedure had minimal impact on growth under these conditions. Tissue plug Hg concentrations were similar to smallmouth Hg data obtained in previous years by removing the entire fillet for analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Ackerson
- Missouri Department of Conservation, Ozark Regional Office, 551 Joe Jones Boulevard, West Plains, MO, 65775, USA
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Allert AL, DiStefano RJ, Fairchild JF, Schmitt CJ, McKee MJ, Girondo JA, Brumbaugh WG, May TW. Effects of historical lead-zinc mining on riffle-dwelling benthic fish and crayfish in the Big River of southeastern Missouri, USA. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2013; 22:506-521. [PMID: 23435650 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-013-1043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The Big River (BGR) drains much of the Old Lead Belt mining district (OLB) in southeastern Missouri, USA, which was historically among the largest producers of lead-zinc (Pb-Zn) ore in the world. We sampled benthic fish and crayfish in riffle habitats at eight sites in the BGR and conducted 56-day in situ exposures to the woodland crayfish (Orconectes hylas) and golden crayfish (Orconectes luteus) in cages at four sites affected to differing degrees by mining. Densities of fish and crayfish, physical habitat and water quality, and the survival and growth of caged crayfish were examined at sites with no known upstream mining activities (i.e., reference sites) and at sites downstream of mining areas (i.e., mining and downstream sites). Lead, zinc, and cadmium were analyzed in surface and pore water, sediment, detritus, fish, crayfish, and other benthic macro-invertebrates. Metals concentrations in all materials analyzed were greater at mining and downstream sites than at reference sites. Ten species of fish and four species of crayfish were collected. Fish and crayfish densities were significantly greater at reference than mining or downstream sites, and densities were greater at downstream than mining sites. Survival of caged crayfish was significantly lower at mining sites than reference sites; downstream sites were not tested. Chronic toxic-unit scores and sediment probable effects quotients indicated significant risk of toxicity to fish and crayfish, and metals concentrations in crayfish were sufficiently high to represent a risk to wildlife at mining and downstream sites. Collectively, the results provided direct evidence that metals associated with historical mining activities in the OLB continue to affect aquatic life in the BGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Allert
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, US Geological Survey, Columbia, MO 65201, USA.
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Nematode and mercury content in freshwater fish belonging to different trophic levels. Parasitol Res 2013; 112:2187-95. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-013-3378-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/01/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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