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Lanctôt C, Callaghan P, Cresswell T. Cadmium bioaccumulation dynamics during amphibian development and metamorphosis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134773. [PMID: 38833952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134773] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium pollution poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems due to its propensity to bioaccumulate and cause toxicity. This study assessed the complex dynamics of cadmium uptake, accumulation and distribution across anuran development to provide new insights into the fate of cadmium burdens during metamorphosis and compare the susceptibility of different life stages to cadmium accumulation. Tadpoles of various developmental stages were exposed to dissolved 109-cadmium and depurated in clean water in a series of experiments. Temporal changes in whole-body and tissue concentrations were analysed using gamma spectroscopy, and anatomical distributions were visualised using autoradiography. Results showed that animals exposed at the onset of metamorphic climax (forelimb emergence) retained significantly less cadmium than animals exposed through larval stages. After exposure, cadmium partitioned predominantly in the skin, gills and remains of metamorphs, whereas larvae accumulated cadmium predominately through their gut. This shows a shift in the primary route of uptake at the onset of climax, which relates to the structural and functional changes of uptake sites through metamorphosis. During climax, some cadmium was redistributed in tissues developing de novo, such as the forelimbs, and concentrated in the regressing tail. Our findings highlight the need for stage-specific considerations in assessing exposure risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Lanctôt
- Australian Rivers Institute, and School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia.
| | - Paul Callaghan
- ANSTO, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- ANSTO, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
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2
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Rowland FE, Muths E, Eagles-Smith CA, Stricker CA, Kraus JM, Harrington RA, Walters DM. Complex Life Histories Alter Patterns of Mercury Exposure and Accumulation in a Pond-Breeding Amphibian. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:4133-4142. [PMID: 36848500 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c04896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Quantifying how contaminants change across life cycles of species that undergo metamorphosis is critical to assessing organismal risk, particularly for consumers. Pond-breeding amphibians can dominate aquatic animal biomass as larvae and are terrestrial prey as juveniles and adults. Thus, amphibians can be vectors of mercury exposure in both aquatic and terrestrial food webs. However, it is still unclear how mercury concentrations are affected by exogenous (e.g., habitat or diet) vs endogenous factors (e.g., catabolism during hibernation) as amphibians undergo large diet shifts and periods of fasting during ontogeny. We measured total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), and isotopic compositions (δ 13C, δ15N) in boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata) across five life stages in two Colorado (USA) metapopulations. We found large differences in concentrations and percent MeHg (of THg) among life stages. Frog MeHg concentrations peaked during metamorphosis and hibernation coinciding with the most energetically demanding life cycle stages. Indeed, life history transitions involving periods of fasting coupled with high metabolic demands led to large increases in mercury concentrations. The endogenous processes of metamorphosis and hibernation resulted in MeHg bioamplification, thus decoupling it from the light isotopic proxies of diet and trophic position. These step changes are not often considered in conventional expectations of how MeHg concentrations within organisms are assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya E Rowland
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
| | - Erin Muths
- Fort Collins Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526, United States
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Craig A Stricker
- Fort Collins Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526, United States
| | - Johanna M Kraus
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
| | - Rachel A Harrington
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8, Denver, Colorado 80202, United States
| | - David M Walters
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
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Pogányová A, Haas M, Solár J. Lead content in soil, plants, rodents, and amphibians in the vicinity of a heating plant's ash waste. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2021; 194:21. [PMID: 34893947 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-09671-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study supplements previous research focused on environmental condition in the vicinity of waste ash material. The main aim of our study was the comparative analysis of lead levels in soil, plant, and animal organisms in the area of the tailings pond and surroundings, using x-ray. Findings confirm that the level of Pb in the top layer of soil is in the range of 20-135 ppm. Lead content in Calamagrostis plant tissues was confirmed only at the tailings pond area, with the highest lead concentrations measured in above-ground components; stems with blooms followed by roots and ground floor sheats. The livers, kidneys, and hearts of Apodemus flavicollis were examined, with findings of higher values in the tailings pond area than in the reference site, and average values of 14.5 ppm for livers, 16.0 ppm for kidneys, and 16.6 ppm for hearts. No significant differences were discovered based on sex and body length/body weight of A. flavicollis individuals. Values for Bombina variegata liver tissue reached an average of 12.3 ppm for individuals caught in a water reservoir without ash sediments, versus 15.7 ppm in those trapped by the edge of then tailings pond area. Females had lower concentrations of lead than males, but with no statistically significant differences found. Despite lower lead levels in soil and ash than expected, concentrations in mammalian and amphibian organs suggest a possible transition of this element into the food chain, and therefore further research in this area is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pogányová
- Institute of High Mountain Biology, University of Žilina, Tatranská Javorina 7, Žilina, 05956, Slovakia.
| | - Martina Haas
- Institute of High Mountain Biology, University of Žilina, Tatranská Javorina 7, Žilina, 05956, Slovakia
| | - Jaroslav Solár
- Institute of High Mountain Biology, University of Žilina, Tatranská Javorina 7, Žilina, 05956, Slovakia
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Flynn RW, Welch AM, Lance SL. Divergence in heritable life history traits suggests potential for local adaptation and trade-offs associated with a coal ash disposal site. Evol Appl 2021; 14:2039-2054. [PMID: 34429747 PMCID: PMC8372081 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, human activities have resulted in rapid environmental changes that present unique challenges for wildlife. However, investigations of local adaptation in response to simultaneous exposure to multiple anthropogenic selection pressures are rare and often generate conflicting results. We used an in situ reciprocal transplant design within a quantitative genetic framework to examine how adaptive evolution and phenotypic plasticity contribute to the persistence of an amphibian population inhabiting an environment characterized by high levels of multiple toxic trace elements. We found evidence of phenotypic divergence that is largely consistent with local adaptation to an environment contaminated with multiple chemical stressors, tied to potential trade-offs in the absence of contaminants. Specifically, the population derived from the contaminated environment had a reduced risk of mortality and greater larval growth and in the contaminated environment, relative to offspring from the naïve population. Further, while survival in the uncontaminated environment was not compromised in offspring from the contaminant-exposed population, they did show delayed development and reduced growth rates over larval development, relative to the naïve population. We found no evidence of reduced additive genetic variation in the contaminant-exposed population, suggesting long-term selection in a novel environment has not reduced the evolutionary potential of that population. We also saw little evidence that past selection in the ASH environment had reduced trait plasticity in the resident population. Maternal effects were prominent in early development, but we did not detect any trends suggesting these effects were associated with the maternal transfer of toxic trace elements. Our results demonstrate the potential for adaptation to multiple contaminants in a wild amphibian population, which may have facilitated long-term persistence in a heavily impacted environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Wesley Flynn
- Savannah River Ecology LaboratoryUniversity of GeorgiaAikenSCUSA
| | | | - Stacey L. Lance
- Savannah River Ecology LaboratoryUniversity of GeorgiaAikenSCUSA
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Leaphart JC, Korotasz AM, Bryan AL, Beasley JC. Environmental fate of radiocesium in biota inhabiting a contaminated ecosystem on the U.S. Department of Energy's Savannah River Site. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 222:106321. [PMID: 32892897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2020.106321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Although biomagnification of radiocesium (137Cs) has been reported in food webs, most previous research has been limited to select trophic linkages. Few studies have included a comprehensive survey of fauna associated with aquatic, semi-aquatic, and terrestrial habitats within a single study framework. The objectives of this study were to advance our understanding of the dynamics of 137Cs accumulation within food webs by quantifying 137Cs activity across a wide range of biota found within a contaminated canal, as well as test the hypothesis that life-stage and body size influence 137Cs bioaccumulation in select herpetofauna. With extensive sampling across multiple taxa collected from a contaminated canal system and associated floodplain on the Savannah River Site, we assessed 137Cs activity and stable nitrogen isotopes for both aquatic organisms that were restricted to the contaminated effluent canal, and semi-aquatic organisms able to move freely between the contaminated canal and the adjacent uncontaminated terrestrial habitat. We found 137Cs activity to be highly variable among species, with evidence for and against biomagnification in semi-aquatic and aquatic organisms, respectively. Furthermore, 137Cs activity decreased with life stage and body size in bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus), despite post-metamorphic bullfrogs having a more carnivorous diet compared to tadpoles, while cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) retained similar 137Cs activity regardless of their age and size. Although evidence of biomagnification has been observed in some contaminated systems, results of our study suggest the extent to which 137Cs biomagnifies within food webs is context-dependent and likely influenced by a suite of biotic and abiotic factors. Further, our data indicate sampling of a broad suite of species and environmental attributes are needed to elucidate the fate and dynamics of anthropogenic pollutants within contaminated ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Leaphart
- University of Georgia, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA; University of Georgia, Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Alexis M Korotasz
- University of Georgia, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Albert L Bryan
- University of Georgia, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - James C Beasley
- University of Georgia, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA; University of Georgia, Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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6
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Dovick MA, Arkle RS, Kulp TR, Pilliod DS. Extreme Arsenic and Antimony Uptake and Tolerance in Toad Tadpoles during Development in Highly Contaminated Wetlands. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:7983-7991. [PMID: 32470297 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The effects of extreme concentrations of toxic metalloids, such as arsenic (As) and antimony (Sb), on larval amphibians are not well-understood. We sampled Western Toad tadpoles (Anaxyrus boreas) living in As- and Sb-contaminated wetlands throughout their development. Although the tadpoles completed metamorphosis, they accumulated among the highest concentrations of As and Sb ever reported for a living vertebrate (3866.9 mg/kg; 315.0 mg/kg (dry weight), respectively). Ingestion of contaminated sediment had a more important role in metalloid accumulation than aqueous exposure alone. Metalloids were initially concentrated in the gut; however, by metamorphosis, the majority were found in other tissues. These concentrations subsequently decreased with the onset of metamorphosis, yet remained quite elevated. Sublethal effects, including delayed development and reduced size at metamorphosis, were associated with elevated metalloid exposure. The presence of organic arsenicals in tadpole tissues suggests they have the ability to biomethylate inorganic As compounds. The arsenical trimethyl arsine oxide accounted for the majority of extractable organic As, with lesser amounts of monomethylarsonic acid and dimethylarsinic acid. Our findings demonstrate remarkable tolerance of toad tadpoles to extreme metalloid exposure and implicate physiological processes mediating that tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan A Dovick
- Department of Geological Sciences and Environmental Studies, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, New York 13902, United States
| | - Robert S Arkle
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 970 Lusk St., Boise, Idaho 83706, United States
| | - Thomas R Kulp
- Department of Geological Sciences and Environmental Studies, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, New York 13902, United States
| | - David S Pilliod
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 970 Lusk St., Boise, Idaho 83706, United States
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Jones-Costa M, Franco-Belussi L, Vidal FAP, Gongora NP, Castanho LM, Dos Santos Carvalho C, Silva-Zacarin ECM, Abdalla FC, Duarte ICS, Oliveira CD, de Oliveira CR, Salla RF. Cardiac biomarkers as sensitive tools to evaluate the impact of xenobiotics on amphibians: the effects of anionic surfactant linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2018; 151:184-190. [PMID: 29351853 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Amphibian populations have been experiencing a drastic decline worldwide. Aquatic contaminants are among the main factors responsible for this decline, especially in the aquatic environment. The linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) is of particular concern, since it represents 84% of the anionic surfactants' trade. In Brazil, the maximal LAS concentration allowed in fresh waters is 0.5mgL-1, but its potential harmful effects in amphibians remain unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effects of a sublethal concentration of LAS (0.5mgL-1) for 96h on sensitive cardiac biomarkers of bullfrog tadpoles, Lithobates catesbeianus (Shaw, 1802). For this, we measured the activity level (AL - % of animals), in situ heart rate (fH - bpm), relative ventricular mass (RVM - % of body mass), in vitro myocardial contractility and cardiac histology of the ventricles. Tadpoles' AL and fH decreased in LAS group. In contrast, the RVM increased, as a result of a hypertrophy of the myocardium, which was corroborated by the enlargement of the nuclear measures and the increase of myocytes' diameters. These cellular effects resulted in an elevation of the in vitro contractile force of ventricle strips. Acceleration in the contraction (TPT - ms) also occurred, although no alterations in the time to relaxation (THR -ms) were observed. Therefore, it can be concluded that even when exposed to an environmentally safe concentration, this surfactant promotes several alterations in the cardiac function of bullfrog tadpoles that can impair their development, making them more susceptible to predators and less competitive in terms of reproduction success. Thus, LAS concentrations that are considered safe by Brazilian by regulatory agencies must be revised in order to minimize a drastic impact over amphibian populations. This study demonstrates the relevance of employing cardiac biomarkers at different levels (e.g., morphological, physiological and cellular) to evaluate effects of xenobiotics in tadpoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Jones-Costa
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Lilian Franco-Belussi
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Monitoramento Ambiental, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil; Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Felipe Augusto Pinto Vidal
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Monitoramento Ambiental, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Nathália Penteado Gongora
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Luciano Mendes Castanho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Cleoni Dos Santos Carvalho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Elaine Cristina Mathias Silva-Zacarin
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Ecotoxicologia de Abelhas, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Fabio Camargo Abdalla
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Iolanda Cristina Silveira Duarte
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Ambiental (LaMA), Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Classius De Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane Ronchi de Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel Fernanda Salla
- Laboratório de Fisiologia da Conservação, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos (SP-264), Km 110, Bairro do Itinga, Sorocaba, São Paulo 18052-780, Brazil.
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Rowe CL, Heyes A. Dietary Accumulation of Inorganic Selenium by a Larval Amphibian (Hyla chrysoscelis) and Influence on Accumulation of Background Mercury. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 99:182-186. [PMID: 28409193 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-017-2087-5] [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: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Larval gray tree frogs (Hyla chrysoscelis) were exposed to inorganic Se (SeO2) added to the diet (10.2 and 86.3 ug/g dw) and monitored for accumulation and effect. Background concentrations of Hg were also measured in food and carcasses to assess possible effects of Se on Hg accumulation. Selenium was accumulated in a dose dependent manner, and life stages did not differ. No effects of Se exposure were observed on survival, growth, or time to metamorphosis. Mercury concentrations in carcasses, resulting from background concentrations in food, were significantly affected by the presence of Se. In the high Se treatment, Hg concentrations were significantly decreased relative to those in the low Se treatment and the control. Our study suggests that exposure to inorganic Se as SeO2 at the concentrations tested do not elicit adverse biological effects, but exposure to relatively high concentrations of Se may reduce accumulation of Hg from food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Rowe
- University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, P. O. Box 38, Solomons, MD, 20688, USA.
| | - Andrew Heyes
- University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, P. O. Box 38, Solomons, MD, 20688, USA
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9
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Mardirosian M, Bieczynski F, Luquet C, Pérez CA, Bongiovanni G, Lascano C, Venturino A. Arsenic absorption and excretion in chronically exposed developing toad Rhinella arenarum. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 52:255-261. [PMID: 28460261 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.04.014] [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: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We assessed the toxicodynamics of As in developing Rhinella arenarum toad embryos and larvae exposed from fertilization to 0.01-10mgAsL-1. We determined As content in toad embryos and larvae by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Toad embryos and larvae actively bioaccumulated As, reaching tissue concentrations more than one-thousand higher than control levels after 23d-exposure to 10mgAsL-1. The bioconcentration factors also increased up to fifty times higher levels in toad larvae respect to media levels. Once recovered in As-free media, the larvae rapidly excreted the bioaccumulated As with a half-life of 1.6d. By calcein transport competition assays, we infer that As is excreted through ABCC-like transporters, probably conjugated with GSH. These results are relevant for comprehending the risks posed by As exposure in this autochthonous aquatic species that develops in water courses from Argentina, that may contain As levels ranging between 10-15,000μgL-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Mardirosian
- Center for Research in Environmental Toxicology and Agrobiotechnology of Comahue (CITAAC), Universidad Nacional del Comahue y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1400, Neuquén, CP 8300, Argentina
| | - Flavia Bieczynski
- Center for Research in Environmental Toxicology and Agrobiotechnology of Comahue (CITAAC), Universidad Nacional del Comahue y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1400, Neuquén, CP 8300, Argentina
| | - Carlos Luquet
- Laboratory of Aquatic Ecotoxicology, INIBIOMA-Universidad Nacional del Comahue y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), CEAN, Ruta 61 Km 3, Paraje San Cabao, 8371, Junín de los Andes, Neuquén, Argentina
| | - Carlos A Pérez
- Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais, Scientific Division, X-Ray Fluorescence and Absorption Group. Laboratorio Nacional de Luz Sincrotron, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Guillermina Bongiovanni
- PROBIEN, CONICET, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, Buenos Aires 1400, Neuquén, CP 8300, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Lascano
- Center for Research in Environmental Toxicology and Agrobiotechnology of Comahue (CITAAC), Universidad Nacional del Comahue y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1400, Neuquén, CP 8300, Argentina
| | - Andrés Venturino
- Center for Research in Environmental Toxicology and Agrobiotechnology of Comahue (CITAAC), Universidad Nacional del Comahue y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1400, Neuquén, CP 8300, Argentina.
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10
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Lanctôt CM, Cresswell T, Callaghan PD, Melvin SD. Bioaccumulation and Biodistribution of Selenium in Metamorphosing Tadpoles. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:5764-5773. [PMID: 28423270 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b00300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Selenium is an important macronutrient with a very narrow margin between essentiality and toxicity. Amphibians are hypothesized to be particularly sensitive due to the potential for metamorphosis-driven mobilization, which could transfer or concentrate contaminant burdens within specific organs. We explored the potential role of tissue degeneration and remodeling during anuran metamorphosis as a mechanism for altering tissue-specific Se burdens. Limnodynastes peronii tadpoles were exposed to dissolved 75Se (as selenite) for 7 days and depurated until completion of metamorphosis. Bioaccumulation and retention kinetics were assessed in whole tadpoles and excised tissues using gamma spectroscopy, and temporal changes in biodistribution were assessed using autoradiography. Tadpoles retained Se throughout metamorphosis, and partitioned the element predominantly within digestive and excretory tissues, including livers > mesonephros > guts > gallbladder. Importantly, our results demonstrate that Se biodistribution varies significantly throughout development. This is indicative of tissue transference, and particularly in tissues developing de novo after depuration. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating Se transference during metamorphic tissue remodelling. Further research is warranted to explore the fate and metabolism of Se (and other metal and metalloids) during anuran development and the implications of transference for influencing toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M Lanctôt
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University , Southport, Queensland 4215, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) , Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, New South Wales 2232, Australia
| | - Paul D Callaghan
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) , Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, New South Wales 2232, Australia
| | - Steven D Melvin
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University , Southport, Queensland 4215, Australia
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11
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Hinck JE, Cleveland D, Brumbaugh WG, Linder G, Lankton J. Pre-mining trace element and radiation exposure to biota from a breccia pipe uranium mine in the Grand Canyon (Arizona, USA) watershed. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:56. [PMID: 28091884 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-5765-1] [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: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The risks to wildlife and humans from uranium (U) mining in the Grand Canyon watershed are largely unknown. In addition to U, other co-occurring ore constituents contribute to risks to biological receptors depending on their toxicological profiles. This study characterizes the pre-mining concentrations of total arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), selenium (Se), thallium (Tl), U, and zinc (Zn); radiation levels; and histopathology in biota (vegetation, invertebrates, amphibians, birds, and mammals) at the Canyon Mine. Gross alpha levels were below the reporting limit (4 pCi/g) in all samples, and gross beta levels were indicative of background in vegetation (<10-17 pCi/g) and rodents (<10-43.5 pCi/g). Concentrations of U, Tl, Pb, Ni, Cu, and As in vegetation downwind from the mine were likely the result of aeolian transport. Chemical concentrations in rodents and terrestrial invertebrates indicate that surface disturbance during mine construction has not resulted in statistically significant spatial differences in fauna concentrations adjacent to the mine. Chemical concentrations in egg contents and nestlings of non-aquatic birds were less than method quantification limits or did not exceed toxicity thresholds. Bioaccumulation of As, Pb, Se, Tl, and U was evident in Western spadefoot (Spea multiplicata) tadpoles from the mine containment pond; concentrations of As (28.9-31.4 μg/g) and Se (5.81-7.20 μg/g) exceeded toxicity values and were significantly greater than in tadpoles from a nearby water source. Continued evaluation of As and Se in biota inhabiting and forging in the mine containment pond is warranted as mining progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Ellen Hinck
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd., Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
| | - Danielle Cleveland
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd., Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - William G Brumbaugh
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd., Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Greg Linder
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, HeronWorks Field Office, Brooks, OR, 97305, USA
| | - Julia Lankton
- U.S. Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center, 6006 Schroeder Rd, Madison, WI, 53711, USA
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Park CJ, Song SH, Kim DH, Gye MC. Nickel affects gill and muscle development in oriental fire-bellied toad (Bombina orientalis) embryos. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2017; 182:67-78. [PMID: 27871005 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2016.11.011] [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: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The developmental toxicity of nickel was examined in the embryos of Bombina orientalis, a common amphibian in Korea. Based on a standard frog embryo teratogenesis assay, the LC50 and EC50 for malformation of nickel after 168h of treatment were 33.8μM and 5.4μM, respectively. At a lethal concentration (100μM), nickel treatment decreased the space between gill filaments and caused epithelial swelling and abnormal fusion of gill filaments. These findings suggest that nickel affects the functional development of gills, leading to embryonic death. At sublethal concentrations (1-10μM), nickel produced multiple embryonic abnormalities, including bent tail and tail dysplasia. At 10μM, nickel significantly decreased tail length and tail muscle fiber density in tadpoles, indicating inhibition of myogenic differentiation. Before hatching, the pre-muscular response to muscular response stages (stages 26-31) were the most sensitive period to nickel with respect to tail muscle development. During these stages, MyoD mRNA was upregulated, whereas myogenic regulatory factor 4 mRNA was downregulated by 0.1μM nickel. Calcium-dependent kinase activities in muscular response stage embryos were significantly decreased by nickel, whereas these activities were restored by exogenous calcium. In tadpoles, 10μM nickel significantly decreased the expression of the myosin heavy chain and the 12/101 muscle marker protein in the tail. Expression was restored by exogenous calcium. Our results indicate that nickel affects muscle development by disrupting calcium-dependent myogenesis in developing B. orientalis embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Jin Park
- Department of Life Science and Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, South Korea
| | - Sang Ha Song
- Department of Life Science and Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, South Korea
| | - Dae Han Kim
- Department of Life Science and Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, South Korea
| | - Myung Chan Gye
- Department of Life Science and Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, South Korea.
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13
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Lanctôt C, Bennett W, Wilson S, Fabbro L, Leusch FDL, Melvin SD. Behaviour, development and metal accumulation in striped marsh frog tadpoles (Limnodynastes peronii) exposed to coal mine wastewater. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2016; 173:218-227. [PMID: 26854186 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2016.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Coal mining generates large quantities of complex effluent, and this often contains high levels of dissolved solids, suspended solids, metals, hydrocarbons, salts and other compounds. Substantial volumes of mine wastewater are periodically discharged into the environment, through both planned and accidental releases, and this raises concerns about the potential for adverse impacts on aquatic wildlife. There have been few attempts to explore sub-lethal effects of coal mine wastewater on amphibians compared to other organisms, and this is particularly true for Australian species. To address existing knowledge gaps, we exposed striped marsh frog (Limnodynastes peronii) tadpoles to 25, 50 and 100% coal mine wastewater collected from two holding dams (CMW1 and CMW2) located at an open cut mine in Central Queensland, Australia. The exposure lasted for four weeks, after which survival, growth and development, swimming behaviour, and concentrations of metals and metalloids in tail and liver tissues were assessed. Physico-chemical parameters varied considerably between sites, with higher turbidity, nutrients, total and dissolved organic carbon, alkalinity and arsenic (As) concentrations at CMW1, and higher conductivity, salinity, dissolved solids, hardness and sulfate levels at CMW2. There was no mortality in controls and less than 5% mortality in CMW1 treatments, whereas survival was significantly decreased in tadpoles exposed to CMW2 with 40 and 55% mortality in the 50 and 100% treatments, respectively. Development was significantly delayed in 100% CMW1 wastewater, but tadpole size (growth) was not influenced by the exposure. Hepatosomatic indices were significantly increased in tadpoles exposed to 25 and 50% CMW1 but not the 100% treatment group. Exposed tadpoles (predominantly those exposed to CMW1) exhibited increased activity after very short-term exposure (24h), but this did not persist as animals approached metamorphic climax. At the end of the experiment, tadpoles exposed to both wastewaters had elevated levels of selenium (Se), cobalt (Co) and As in tail and liver tissue compared to controls. Manganese (Mn) levels were also elevated in livers and tails of CMW2 exposed tadpoles. Hepatic tissue accumulated 8-9 times higher concentrations of Co, Mn and Se compared to tail tissue, irrespective of treatments. Future research is warranted to explore possible relationships between metal bioaccumulation, morpho-physiological effects during development, and subsequent higher-level outcomes related to individual performance and population fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lanctôt
- Central Queensland University, School of Medical and Applied Sciences, Gladstone, QLD 4680, Australia; Smart Water Research Centre and Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia.
| | - W Bennett
- Environmental Futures Research Institute and Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia.
| | - S Wilson
- Central Queensland University, School of Medical and Applied Sciences, Gladstone, QLD 4680, Australia.
| | - L Fabbro
- Central Queensland University, School of Medical and Applied Sciences, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia.
| | - F D L Leusch
- Smart Water Research Centre and Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia.
| | - S D Melvin
- Central Queensland University, School of Medical and Applied Sciences, Gladstone, QLD 4680, Australia; Smart Water Research Centre and Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia.
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Qureshi IZ, Kashif Z, Hashmi MZ, Su X, Malik RN, Ullah K, Hu J, Dawood M. Assessment of heavy metals and metalloids in tissues of two frog species: Rana tigrina and Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis from industrial city Sialkot, Pakistan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:14157-14168. [PMID: 25966879 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4454-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated the concentrations of Ni, Fe, Pb, Cu, Co, Zn, Cd, Mn, and Cr in selected body tissues (liver, stomach, kidney, heart, lungs, and skeletal muscles) of two frog species: Rana tigrina and Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis captured from industrial wastewater of Sialkot city known worldwide for its tanning industry. The both frog species had darker appearance, distinctively different wet body weight, and snout-vent length. The results revealed that the heavy metal concentrations were high in the samples collected from industrial sites as compared to non-industrial sites. The different tissues of R. tigrina and E. cyanophlyctis exhibited little significant differences from two sites. The concentrations of heavy metals were more in tissues of R. tigrina as compared to E. cyanophlyctis. Mean concentration of Cd, Fe, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Cr was comparatively greater in R. tigrina, whereas Pb and Co were higher in E. cyanophlyctis. The concentration of Cu and Cd in the liver and kidney were relatively more in both species as compared to other organs. Further, the results indicated that frogs collected from industrial sites showed decreased body length and weight, and greater metal accumulation. The results will help the authorities for the conservation of these frog species which are under the influence of heavy metal contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Zia Qureshi
- Laboratory of Animal and Human Physiology, Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan,
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15
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Koch I, Zhang J, Button M, Gibson LA, Caumette G, Langlois VS, Reimer KJ, Cullen WR. Arsenic(+3) and DNA methyltransferases, and arsenic speciation in tadpole and frog life stages of western clawed frogs (Silurana tropicalis) exposed to arsenate. Metallomics 2015; 7:1274-84. [PMID: 26067210 DOI: 10.1039/c5mt00078e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Western clawed frog (Silurana tropicalis) embryos were exposed to control, low (nominally 0.5 mg L(-1)) and high (nominally 1 mg L(-1)) arsenate (As(V)) culture water concentrations to investigate the effects of arsenic (As) on different life stages, namely tadpole (Nieuwkoop and Faber stage 56, NF56) and frog stages (NF66). The effects were assessed by measuring arsenic(+3) and DNA methyltransferases (AS3MT and DNMT1), as well as As speciation in the tissues. The As content in frog tissues increased with water As concentration. The As species observed by high performance liquid chromatography - inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICPMS) were mostly inorganic, dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) and trimethylarsine oxide (TMAO). With solid state X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) analysis, arsenobetaine/tetramethylarsonium ion were also seen. AS3MT levels decreased upon low As exposure in NF56, rising again to control levels at the high As exposure. In NF66 tissues, on the other hand, AS3MT decreased only with NF66 high As exposure. DNMT1 increased with exposure, and this was statistically significant only for the high As exposure at both life stages. Thus these enzymes seem to be affected by the As exposure. Methylation of As to form monomethylarsonate (MMA), DMA and TMAO in the frogs appeared to be inversely related to AS3MT levels. A possible interpretation of this finding is that when AS3MT is higher, excretion of MMA + DMA + TMAO is more efficient, leaving lower concentrations in the tissues, with the opposite effect (less excretion) when AS3MT is lower; alternatively, other enzymes or linked genes may affect the methylation of As.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Koch
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Canada.
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16
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Dmowski K, Rossa M, Kowalska J, Krasnodębska-Ostręga B. Thallium in spawn, juveniles, and adult common toads (Bufo bufo) living in the vicinity of a zinc-mining complex, Poland. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2015; 187:4141. [PMID: 25418553 PMCID: PMC4241486 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-014-4141-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A breeding population of the common toad Bufo bufo living in the vicinity of a Zn-Pb smelting works in Bukowno, Poland was studied for the presence of thallium. Tl concentration was measured in the bottom sediments of the spawning pond, in the laid eggs, in juveniles after metamorphosis, and in the selected tissues of the adult individuals. A very high concentration of Tl was detected in the spawn (13.97 ± 8.90 mg/kg d.w.). In 50% of the spawn samples, levels exceeded 20 mgTl/kg d.w. The issue of maternal transfer of thallium from females to oocytes is discussed. Due to a significant accumulation of thallium, spawn analysis can be used as a sensitive indicator of the presence of this element in the environment and may replace more invasive methods that involve the killing of adult animals. In those regions that are abundant in Zn-Pb ores, the spawn of amphibians may be a very important source of thallium contamination for predators. From among all tissues of the Bukowno adult toads, the livers have shown the highest accumulation of thallium (mean 3.98 mg/kg d.w. and maximum value--18.63). For as many as 96.5% of livers, concentrations exceeded 1.0 mgTl/kg d.w. which is treated as indicative of poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Dmowski
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland,
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17
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Nuclear and spectrochemical techniques in developmental metal toxicology research. Whole-body elemental composition of Xenopus laevis larvae. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-014-3792-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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18
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Rowe CL. Bioaccumulation and effects of metals and trace elements from aquatic disposal of coal combustion residues: recent advances and recommendations for further study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 485-486:490-496. [PMID: 24742559 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.03.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Advances have been made recently in assessing accumulation and effects of coal combustion residues (CCR). I provide a brief review of recent advancements, provide a tabulated summary of results of recent work, and put forth recommendations for future studies. One advancement is that mercury accumulation has begun to receive (limited) attention, whereas it had rarely been considered in the past. Additionally, some constituents of CCR have been shown to be accumulated by adults and transferred to offspring, sometimes compromising offspring health. Studies have demonstrated that amphibians, possessing complex life cycles, may accumulate and transfer some contaminants to terrestrial systems. Some study has been given to molecular and cellular effects of CCR exposure, although these studies have been limited to invertebrates. Population models have also been applied to CCR affected systems and have shown that CCR may affect animal populations under some conditions. In light of these advancements, there are several topics that require further assessment. First, more attention to Hg and its dynamics in CCR affected systems is warranted. Hg can be highly accumulative and toxic under some conditions and may interact with other components of CCR (notably Se), perhaps altering accumulation and effects of the contaminant mixtures. Second, further investigation of maternal transfer and effects of CCR contaminants need to be conducted. These studies could benefit from incorporation of quantitative models to project impacts on populations. Finally, more attention to the organic constituents of CCR (PAHs) is required, as a focus on inorganic compounds only may restrict our knowledge of contaminant dynamics and effects as a whole. While further studies will shed light on some chemical and biological nuances of exposure and effect, information available to date from numerous study sites implicates CCR as a bulk effluent that presents risks of bioaccumulation and effects on organisms in aquatic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Rowe
- University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, P.O. Box 38, Solomons, MD 20688, United States.
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19
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Marr CLH, Robertson K, Reynolds KD. Methylmercury in biota downstream of Arivaca lake, Arizona, USA. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2014; 66:327-340. [PMID: 24468966 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-013-9983-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of total mercury (Hg) and methylmercury (MeHg) were determined in water, sediment, periphyton, spiders, and amphibians from the streams and desert marsh downstream from Arivaca Lake, Arizona, to better understand their distribution and bioaccumulation. Mean concentrations of MeHg in water ranged from 0.09 to 0.93 ng/L, and mean concentrations of total Hg in sediment ranged from 10.4 to 126 μg/kg. Hg and MeHg in water and sediments downstream from Arivaca Lake were low enough that they did not exceed human health or ecological thresholds. Hg and MeHg between sites ranged from 0.11 to 1.90 μg/g Hg and 0.01 to 0.3 μg/g MeHg in periphyton, from 0.09 to 0.25 μg/g Hg and 0.04 to 0.10 μg/g MeHg in spiders, and from 0.15 to 0.38 μg/g Hg and 0.14 to 0.35 μg/g MeHg in adult bullfrogs. No Hg toxicity data exist for periphyton or spiders, but MeHg concentrations in tadpoles (0.04 ± 0.005 μg/g) were lower than those known to cause sublethal effects and subchronic mortality. The mean total Hg concentration in adult bullfrogs in the present study was 0.24 μg/g, which is slightly lower than the mean (0.37 μg/g) from an Hg-contaminated wetland in California. MeHg bioaccumulated at each successive trophic level, and MeHg bioconcentration factors from the Arivaca watershed were similar to those for periphyton but greater than amphibians in other studies. Local resource managers can use these data to determine if water should be released from Arivaca Lake to recharge the aquifer downstream or to decrease Hg methylation in the reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie L H Marr
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Arizona Ecological Services Field Office, 2321 W. Royal Palm Rd., Suite 103, Phoenix, AZ, 85021, USA,
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20
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Fletcher DE, Lindell AH, Stillings GK, Mills GL, Blas SA, Vaun McArthur J. Spatial and taxonomic variation in trace element bioaccumulation in two herbivores from a coal combustion waste contaminated stream. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2014; 101:196-204. [PMID: 24507146 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2013.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/25/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Dissimilarities in habitat use, feeding habits, life histories, and physiology can result in syntopic aquatic taxa of similar trophic position bioaccumulating trace elements in vastly different patterns. We compared bioaccumulation in a clam, Corbicula fluminea and mayfly nymph Maccaffertium modestum from a coal combustion waste contaminated stream. Collection sites differed in distance to contaminant sources, incision, floodplain activity, and sources of flood event water and organic matter. Contaminants variably accumulated in both sediment and biofilm. Bioaccumulation differed between species and sites with C. fluminea accumulating higher concentrations of Hg, Cs, Sr, Se, As, Be, and Cu, but M. modestum higher Pb and V. Stable isotope analyses suggested both spatial and taxonomic differences in resource use with greater variability and overlap between species in the more physically disturbed site. The complex but essential interactions between organismal biology, divergence in resource use, and bioaccumulation as related to stream habitat requires further studies essential to understand impacts of metal pollution on stream systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean E Fletcher
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
| | - Angela H Lindell
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
| | - Garrett K Stillings
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
| | - Gary L Mills
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
| | - Susan A Blas
- Area Completion Projects, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Savannah River Site, Aiken 29808, USA.
| | - J Vaun McArthur
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
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21
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Zocche JJ, da Silva LA, Damiani AP, Mendonça RÁ, Peres PB, dos Santos CEI, Debastiani R, Dias JF, de Andrade VM, Pinho RA. Heavy-metal content and oxidative damage in Hypsiboas faber: the impact of coal-mining pollutants on amphibians. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2014; 66:69-77. [PMID: 23974155 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-013-9949-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
It has been identified worldwide that amphibians are experiencing massive population declines. This decrease could be further enhanced by the exposure of amphibians to pollutants, which would enhance reactive oxygen species production and cause subsequent alterations in oxidant defense levels. The present study was aimed at understanding the impact of mineral coal on amphibians. For this purpose, chemical elemental contents and oxidative stress indexes in Hypsiboas faber from coal-mining areas and in an unpolluted area in the Catarinense Coal Basin, Brazil, were assessed. The highest contents of sulfur, chlorine, iron, zinc, and bromine were registered in specimens from the coal-mining area, whereas the highest contents of potassium calcium, and silicon were registered in specimens from the control area. It was found that there was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the activity of super oxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the animals from the coal-mining area, whereas the level of catalase showed no differences between the animal groups. The levels of TBARS showed no differences between the tested groups. However, carbonylation decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in animals from the coal-mining area, and there was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the formation of total thiols in animals from the coal-mining area. In conclusion, the antioxidant system of H. faber is sensitive to pollutants present in coal-mining wastes, and its SOD and GPx activity may be a potential biomarker for monitoring the level of contaminants in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jairo José Zocche
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Laboratório de Ecologia de Paisagem e de Vertebrados, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (UNESC), Av. Universitária, 1105, Bairro Universitário, Criciúma, SC, CEP: 88806-000, Brazil,
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22
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Heyes A, Rowe CL, Conrad P. Differential patterns of accumulation and retention of dietary trace elements associated with coal ash during larval development and metamorphosis of an amphibian. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2014; 66:78-85. [PMID: 24169791 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-013-9957-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
We performed an experiment in which larval gray tree frogs (Hyla chrysoscelis) were raised through metamorphosis on diets increased with a suite of elements associated with coal combustion residues (silver [Ag], arsenic [As], cadmium [Cd], chromium [Cr], copper [Cu], mercury [Hg], lead [Pb], selenium [Se], vanadium [V], and zinc [Zn]) at "low" and "high" concentrations. We quantified accumulation of metals at three life stages (mid-larval development, initiation of metamorphosis, and completion of metamorphosis) as well as effects on survival, metabolic rate, size at metamorphosis, and duration and loss of weight during metamorphosis. Most elements were accumulated in a dose-dependent pattern by some or all life stages, although this was not the case for Hg. For most elements, larval body burdens exceeded those of later life stages in some or all treatments (control, low, or high). However for Se, As, and Hg, body burdens in control and low concentrations were increased in later compared with earlier life stages. A lack of dose-dependent accumulation of Hg suggests that the presence of high concentrations of other elements (possibly Se) either inhibited accumulation or increased depuration of Hg. The duration of metamorphosis (forelimb emergence through tail resorption) was lengthened in individuals exposed to the highest concentrations of elements, but there were no other statistically significant biological effects. This study shows that patterns of accumulation and possibly depuration of metals and trace elements are complex in animals possessing complex life cycles. Further study is required to determine specific interactions affecting these patterns, in particular which elements may be responsible for affecting accumulation or retention of Hg when organisms are exposed to complex mixtures of elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Heyes
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Solomons, MD, 20688, USA,
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23
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Moriarty MM, Koch I, Reimer KJ. Arsenic species and uptake in amphibians (Rana clamitans and Bufo americanus). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2013; 15:1520-1528. [PMID: 23788261 DOI: 10.1039/c3em00223c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Total arsenic concentrations and the chemical form, or species, of arsenic were determined in amphibians (Rana clamitans and Bufo americanus) collected from a site with elevated arsenic concentrations in Nova Scotia, Canada. Frog legs had significantly elevated total arsenic concentrations at a contaminated site when compared with a nearby background site and a calculation of the estimated daily intake rates of arsenic indicates that both diet (invertebrate intake) and water absorption are important sources of arsenic for these adult organisms. Body burdens of tetramethylarsonium were similar for both the contaminated and background site, with up to 50% of the total arsenic contained in frog legs in the form of the tetramethylarsonium ion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maeve M Moriarty
- Environmental Sciences Group, Royal Military College of Canada, P.O. Box 17000 Station Forces, Kingston, Ontario K7K 7B4, Canada
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Zocche JJ, Damiani AP, Hainzenreder G, Mendonça RÁ, Peres PB, Santos CEID, Debastiani R, Dias JF, Andrade VMD. Assessment of heavy metal content and DNA damage in Hypsiboas faber (anuran amphibian) in coal open-casting mine. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2013; 36:194-201. [PMID: 23619523 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2013.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The aims of the study were to determine the heavy metal content in the tissues of Hypsiboas faber from a coal mining area and to compare the DNA damage in the blood cells of these animals with that of animals living in an unpolluted area. The heavy metal content was detected according to the technique of Particle-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) and the DNA damage was assessed by the Comet assay. Our results reveal that the specimens of H. faber collected from the coal mining area exhibited elements of order Fe>Cu>Al>Zn>Rb>Mn>Br, independently of the organ. The values of Comet assay parameters (DNA damage index and DNA damage frequency) were significantly higher in specimens collected from the coal mining area than in the reference animals. Our study concludes that the coal mining residues are genotoxic to amphibians and may have adverse effects on soil, water, vegetation and wild animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jairo José Zocche
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Paisagem e de Vertebrados, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Unidade Acadêmica de Humanidades, Ciências e Educação, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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Lance SL, Flynn RW, Erickson MR, Scott DE. Within- and among-population level differences in response to chronic copper exposure in southern toads, Anaxyrus terrestris. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2013; 177:135-142. [PMID: 23500050 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2013.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Revised: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants are implicated in the global decline of amphibian populations. Copper (Cu) is a widespread contaminant that can be toxic at concentrations just above the normal physiological range. In the present study we examined the effects of chronic Cu aqueous exposure on embryos and larvae of southern toads, Anaxyrus (Bufo) terrestris. Measurable levels of Cu were found in larvae, with tissue concentrations up to 27.5 μg Cu/g dry mass. Aqueous concentrations of Cu as low as 10 μg/L significantly reduced survival to the free-swimming stage and no larvae reached metamorphosis at concentrations above 15 μg/L. Clutches from populations with prior Cu exposure had the lowest survivorship. Among several populations there was significant variation in survivorship at different levels of Cu. More data are needed to understand the underlying causes of within- and among-population resilience to anthropogenic stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey L Lance
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
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Lockard L, Rowe CL, Heyes A. Dietary selenomethionine exposure induces physical malformations and decreases growth and survival to metamorphosis in an amphibian (Hyla chrysoscelis). ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2013; 64:504-513. [PMID: 23229196 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-012-9850-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/14/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient with a narrow therapeutic concentration range. The relative toxicity of Se increases as it is biotransformed into organic compounds, primarily selenomethionine (SeMet), within the aquatic food chain. Effects of aquatic Se contamination are well quantified for many freshwater fish and aquatic bird species, but impacts on amphibians are not well known. This study investigated the responses of larval Cope's gray tree frogs (Hyla chrysoscelis) fed a diet enriched with one of two concentrations of SeMet (50.1 and 489.9 μg Se g(-1) dw [low and high groups, respectively]) by way of a food-limited (ration) or ad libitum (ad lib) feeding regimen. The high dose caused 100 % mortality during the larval period independent of resource provision levels. Regardless of feeding regimen, the low dose decreased larval survival and successful metamorphosis relative to control treatments. The low dose also induced rear limb deformities in ≤73 % of individuals initiating metamorphosis. Providing low-dose food by way of a rationed feeding regimen decreased observed toxicity, likely because of decreased dietary exposure to SeMet relative to the low ad lib treatment. Individuals from the low ration treatment had decreased wet mass at initiation and completion of metamorphic climax (Gosner stages 42 through 46) compared with those from the control ad lib treatment, indicating that resource limitation combined with Se exposure might negatively affect energy stores after metamorphosis. However, lipid content analyses of recently metamorphosed individuals did not reveal any influence of treatment or resource provision on energy stored as lipids. The mean tissue Se concentration of individuals that received the low dose and completed metamorphosis was significantly greater than that of control ad lib or ration individuals at the same developmental stage. This study demonstrates that larval exposure to dietary SeMet can decrease growth and survival and induce deformities in a developing amphibian. Furthermore, retention of Se body burdens through metamorphosis suggests that surviving individuals can transport Se accumulated from contaminated aquatic environments into terrestrial food webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lockard
- Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, P.O. Box 38, Solomons, MD 20688, USA
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Metts BS, Buhlmann KA, Tuberville TD, Scott DE, Hopkins WA. Maternal transfer of contaminants and reduced reproductive success of southern toads ( Bufo [Anaxyrus] terrestris ) exposed to coal combustion waste. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2013; 47:2846-2853. [PMID: 23406432 DOI: 10.1021/es303989u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Bioaccumulation of contaminants and subsequent maternal transfer to offspring are important factors that affect the reproductive success of wildlife. However, maternal transfer of contaminants has rarely been investigated in amphibians. We examined maternal transfer of trace elements in southern toads ( Bufo[Anaxyrus] terrestris) residing in two locations: (1) an active coal combustion waste (CCW) disposal basin and adjacent 40-ha floodplain contaminated with CCW over 35 years ago and (2) an uncontaminated reference site. Our study is among the few to document tissue concentration-dependent maternal transfer of contaminants and associated adverse effects in amphibians. We found that females collected from the CCW-contaminated area had elevated concentrations of Ni, Se, and Sr; these females also transferred elevated levels of Cu, Pb, Se, and Sr to their eggs compared to females from the reference site. Overall reproductive success, estimated as a function of clutch size and offspring viability, was reduced by 27% in clutches collected from parents from the contaminated site compared to the reference site. Offspring viability negatively correlated with female and/or egg concentrations of Se and Ni. Reproductive success negatively correlated with Se and Cu concentrations in females, and Se concentrations in eggs. Our study highlights how exposure to CCW can negatively affect amphibian reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian S Metts
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, South Carolina 29802, USA.
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Lance SL, Erickson MR, Flynn RW, Mills GL, Tuberville TD, Scott DE. Effects of chronic copper exposure on development and survival in the southern leopard frog (Lithobates [Rana] sphenocephalus). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2012; 31:1587-1594. [PMID: 22511547 DOI: 10.1002/etc.1849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2011] [Revised: 12/09/2011] [Accepted: 02/23/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental contaminants contributes to the global decline of amphibian populations. The impacts of organic contaminants on amphibians are well documented. However, substantially less is known concerning the potential effects of metals on amphibian populations. Copper (Cu) is an essential element, but it can be toxic at concentrations only slightly higher than the normal physiological range. The present study examines the effects of chronic Cu exposure on embryos and larvae of southern leopard frogs, Lithobates (Rana) sphenocephalus. Groups of eggs from multiple clutches were collected from two wetlands and exposed to a range of Cu concentrations (0-150 µg/L) until they reached the free-swimming stage, and then individual larvae were reared to metamorphosis. Higher Cu concentrations significantly reduced embryo survival to the free-swimming stage but did not further reduce survival to metamorphosis. Larval period was affected by Cu treatment, but the clutch from which larvae originated (i.e., parentage) explained a higher proportion of the variation. Embryo survival to hatching varied significantly among clutches, ranging from 42.9 to 79.2%. Measurable levels of Cu were found in larvae with body burdens up to 595 µg Cu/g dry mass in the 100 µg/L treatment, and larval Cu body burdens were higher than in metamorphs. The present study also demonstrated that higher initial egg density ameliorated embryo mortality at higher Cu levels and should be accounted for in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey L Lance
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, USA.
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Metts BS, Buhlmann KA, Scott DE, Tuberville TD, Hopkins WA. Interactive effects of maternal and environmental exposure to coal combustion wastes decrease survival of larval southern toads (Bufo terrestris). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2012; 164:211-218. [PMID: 22366480 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2012.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2011] [Revised: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 01/29/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a mesocosm study to assess the individual and interactive effects of previous maternal exposure and larval exposure to trace element-laden sediments on southern toads (Bufo terrestris). Previous maternal exposure to coal combustion wastes (CCW) reduced larval survival to metamorphosis up to 57% compared to larvae of unexposed females. Larvae reared on CCW accumulated significant concentrations of trace elements resulting in extended larval periods, reduced growth rates, and reduced mass at metamorphosis. However, the effects were dependent on age of sediments, suggesting the effects of contaminants from CCW may be partially ameliorated over time through the reduced bioavailability of trace elements in aged CCW. Most importantly, maternal exposure to contaminants coupled with larval exposure to fresh CCW interacted to reduce survival to metamorphosis by 85% compared to reference conditions. Our study yields further evidence that disposal of CCW in aquatic basins potentially creates ecological traps for some amphibian populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian S Metts
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
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Jofré MB, Antón RI, Caviedes-Vidal E. Lead and cadmium accumulation in anuran amphibians of a permanent water body in arid Midwestern Argentina. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2011; 19:2889-2897. [PMID: 22351257 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-012-0795-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Heavy metals have been detected in water and sediments from the Embalse La Florida, an artificial lake in the arid region of San Luis province, Argentina, representing one of the few sources of permanent water for reproduction of native anuran species. This study assesses lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) concentrations in the anuran species found in this water reservoir as well as differences between compounds, species and sites of collection. METHODS Adult anuran amphibians were collected on the north and south shores of the Embalse La Florida and Pb and Cd concentrations were measured in whole body homogenates digested using wet ashing techniques. RESULTS All individuals of the six species assayed had detectable levels of Pb and Cd that ranged from 1.19 to 5.57 μg/g dry mass and from 1.09 to 6.86 μg/g dry mass, respectively. Anuran amphibians collected in the more contaminated south shore accumulated 21% more Cd and 40% more Pb than individuals from the less altered north shore. Cd and Pb accumulation was not significantly correlated with the concentration in water at the site of collection. CONCLUSIONS Amphibians of the Embalse La Florida accumulate Cd and Pb. Between and within species, differences were detected in Cd and Pb concentrations. Differences in metal concentrations between species, metals, and individuals collected on shores of the Embalse La Florida with different contamination, were detected. Therefore, it is crucial to implement adequate policies to protect amphibians from the accelerated urban development experienced in this location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana B Jofré
- Área de Biología, Departamento de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Chacabuco 917, 5700, San Luis, Argentina.
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Bergeron CM, Bodinof CM, Unrine JM, Hopkins WA. Mercury accumulation along a contamination gradient and nondestructive indices of bioaccumulation in amphibians. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2010; 29:980-988. [PMID: 20821529 DOI: 10.1002/etc.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is an important environmental contaminant due to its global distribution, tendency to bioaccumulate, and toxicity in wildlife. However, Hg has received little attention in amphibians compared to other vertebrates. Amphibians vary widely in life history strategies and feeding ecologies, which could influence Hg exposure and accumulation. To determine whether species and life stage affects Hg bioaccumulation, adults from three species (Plethodon cinereus, Eurycea bislineata, and Bufo americanus) and larvae from the latter two species were collected along a contamination gradient on the South River (VA, USA). Total Hg (THg) concentrations in the contaminated site were 3.5 to 22 times higher than in the reference site. Differences were found in THg concentrations in amphibians that were consistent with their habitat requirements and feeding preferences. In general, adults (3,453 +/- 196 ng/g, dry mass) and larvae (2,479 +/- 171 ng/g) of the most river-associated species, E. bislineata, had the highest THg concentrations, followed by B. americanus tadpoles (2,132 +/- 602 ng/g), whereas adults of the more terrestrial B. americanus (598 +/- 117 ng/g) and P. cinereus (583 +/- 178 ng/g) had the lowest concentrations. In addition, nondestructive sampling techniques were developed. For the salamander species, THg concentrations in tail tissue were strongly correlated (r >or= 0.97) with the remaining carcass. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.92) also existed between blood and whole-body THg concentrations in B. americanus. These results suggest that amphibians and their terrestrial predators may be at risk of Hg exposure in this system and that nondestructive methods may be a viable sampling alternative that reduces impacts to local populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Bergeron
- Wildlife Ecotoxicology and Physiological Ecology Program, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 100 Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
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Chen TH, Gross JA, Karasov WH. Chronic exposure to pentavalent arsenic of larval leopard frogs (Rana pipiens): bioaccumulation and reduced swimming performance. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2009; 18:587-593. [PMID: 19396542 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-009-0316-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2009] [Accepted: 04/09/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is mainly released to the environment from anthropogenic sources, with inorganic pentavalent As (As [V]) predominant in surface water. In this study, Rana pipiens were exposed to As (V) in water at environmentally relevant concentrations (control, 10, 20, 150, 500, and 1,000 microg l(-1)) in a static-renewal system from post-hatch stage through metamorphosis for 113 days. There was no significant effect of As exposure on tadpole survival, growth, and percent metamorphosis. Maximum swimming speed was significantly slower in the As-treated groups compared with the control. During the period of tail resorption (Gosner stage 42-46), no significant differences in age at metamorphosis, survival, length of tail resorption period, snout-vent length of metamorphs, and sex ratio were found among treatments. Whole body As concentrations ranged from <0.6 to 5.31 mg kg(-1) dry mass, and were significantly higher in the 150, 500, and 1,000 microg l(-1) treatments than the control. Based on our data, larval tissue concentrations of As close to that reported in previous field studies were not associated with any significant effects except decreased tadpole swimming speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Te-Hao Chen
- Department of Biology, National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Pingtung, Taiwan.
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Jofré MB, Antón RI, Caviedes-Vidal E. Organochlorine contamination in anuran amphibians of an artificial lake in the semiarid midwest of Argentina. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2008; 55:471-480. [PMID: 18368436 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-007-9122-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2007] [Accepted: 12/20/2007] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Artificial water reservoirs are important for fauna in arid-semiarid regions, because they provide suitable habitats for species that depend on water, such as amphibians. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are toxic, persistent compounds that tend to bioaccumulate and bioconcentrate. We evaluated contaminant levels in anurans from an artificial lake (Embalse La Florida) in a semiarid region of the Midwest Argentina. This lake is one of the few sources of permanent water in the area. OCPs were detected in all individuals. Levels ranged from 2.34 +/- 0.62 ng/g wet mass of heptachlors to 9.76 +/- 1.76 ng/g wet mass of hexachlorocyclohexanes. The distribution pattern of OCP was Sigma HCH > Sigma DDT > endosulfan > Sigma chlordane > metoxichlor > Sigma aldrin > Sigmaheptachlor. Contaminant levels in individuals were positively correlated with contaminant levels in the water. Burden differed between species, but not among sites differing in water contaminant levels. Results suggest that anurans may concentrate OCPs and thus provide an important source of exposure for amphibian predators. This study provides important information for potential risk assessment of amphibians in the region and contributes to our understanding of the extent of OCP contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana B Jofré
- Area de Biología, Departamento de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Chacabuco 917, San Luis, 5700, Argentina.
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Winne CT, Willson JD, Todd BD, Andrews KM, Gibbons JW. Enigmatic Decline of a Protected Population of Eastern Kingsnakes, Lampropeltis Getula, in South Carolina. COPEIA 2007. [DOI: 10.1643/0045-8511(2007)2007[507:edoapp]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Unrine JM, Hopkins WA, Romanek CS, Jackson BP. Bioaccumulation of trace elements in omnivorous amphibian larvae: implications for amphibian health and contaminant transport. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2007; 149:182-92. [PMID: 17399874 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2007.01.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2006] [Revised: 01/03/2007] [Accepted: 01/07/2007] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite the influence that amphibians have on the flow of energy and nutrients in ecological systems, the role that amphibians play in transporting contaminants through food webs has received very little attention. This study was undertaken to investigate bioaccumulation of trace elements in amphibians relative to other small aquatic organisms in a contaminated wetland. We collected bullfrog larvae (Rana catesbeiana) along with three other species of small vertebrates and four species of invertebrates from a site contaminated with a wide array of trace elements and analyzed them for trace element concentrations and stable nitrogen and carbon isotope composition. We found that amphibian larvae accumulated the highest concentrations of most trace elements, possibly due to their feeding ecology. These results suggest that omnivorous amphibian larvae can serve as a critical link for trace element trophic transfer. Their propensity to accumulate trace elements may have important implications for amphibian health in contaminated environments and should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Unrine
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, The University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
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Roe JH, Hopkins WA, Durant SE, Unrine JM. Effects of competition and coal-combustion wastes on recruitment and life history characteristics of salamanders in temporary wetlands. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2006; 79:176-84. [PMID: 16842868 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2006.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2006] [Revised: 06/10/2006] [Accepted: 06/10/2006] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Amphibians in natural systems must cope with a number of biotic and abiotic stressors that can potentially interact with pollutants to influence toxicity. Although interactive effects of short-lived pesticides with various environmental stressors have been studied, how persistent and bioaccumulative compounds such as metals interact with natural stressors to influence amphibians remains unexplored. We exposed the salamander Ambystoma talpoideum to coal-combustion wastes (a complex mixture of metals and metalloids, hereafter referred to as CCW) at low and high larval density throughout aquatic development in mesocosms simulating temporary wetlands. CCW and high density reduced survival to metamorphosis by 57-77% and 85-92%, respectively, and the effects of these two factors together were additive. Reduced metamorphosis was due in part to larval mortality prior to initiation of pond drying, but CCW and high density also extended the larval period, causing mortality of larvae that were not ready to metamorphose before the pond dried. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a pollutant-induced extension of larval period leading to reduction in amphibian recruitment. Metamorphs were smaller in high density compared to low in reference ponds, but those from CCW emerged at similar sizes irrespective of density, suggesting less-than-additive effects of density and CCW on metamorph size. The adverse responses of salamanders to CCW were likely due to direct toxicity, as A. talpoideum metamorphs accumulated high concentrations of a suite of trace elements (As, Se, Sr, and V), and also to indirect effects on the community food web. We conclude that in no case did the addition of a natural stressor (high density) exacerbate CCW-related effects, but that the effects of CCW alone can be detrimental to larvae of salamanders that breed in temporary ponds.
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Affiliation(s)
- John H Roe
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC 29802, USA.
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Hopkins WA, DuRant SE, Staub BP, Rowe CL, Jackson BP. Reproduction, embryonic development, and maternal transfer of contaminants in the amphibian Gastrophryne carolinensis. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2006; 114:661-6. [PMID: 16675417 PMCID: PMC1459916 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.8457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2005] [Accepted: 12/08/2005] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Although many amphibian populations around the world are declining at alarming rates, the cause of most declines remains unknown. Environmental contamination is one of several factors implicated in declines and may have particularly important effects on sensitive developmental stages. Despite the severe effects of maternal transfer of contaminants on early development in other vertebrate lineages, no studies have examined the effects of maternal transfer of contaminants on reproduction or development in amphibians. We examined maternal transfer of contaminants in eastern narrow-mouth toads (Gastrophryne carolinensis) collected from a reference site and near a coal-burning power plant. Adult toads inhabiting the industrial area transferred significant quantities of selenium and strontium to their eggs, but Se concentrations were most notable (up to 100 microg/g dry mass). Compared with the reference site, hatching success was reduced by 11% in clutches from the contaminated site. In surviving larvae, the frequency of developmental abnormalities and abnormal swimming was 55-58% higher in the contaminated site relative to the reference site. Craniofacial abnormalities were nearly an order of magnitude more prevalent in hatchlings from the contaminated site. When all developmental criteria were considered collectively, offspring from the contaminated site experienced 19% lower viability. Although there was no statistical relationship between the concentration of Se or Sr transferred to eggs and any measure of offspring viability, our study demonstrates that maternal transfer may be an important route of contaminant exposure in amphibians that has been overlooked.
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