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Lemos LS, Attademo FLN, de Paiva LH, Costa AF, Reis LMA, de Oliveira Luna F, Hauser-Davis RA, Siciliano S. Metal and metalloid maternal transfer in a newborn West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) two years after the northeastern oil spill disaster of 2019 in Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116147. [PMID: 38377864 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
A large-scale oil spill along the northeastern Brazilian coast in 2019-2020 severely impacted primary manatee habitats in Brazil. This study aimed to assess metal and metalloid contamination in a dead manatee calf found following this oil spill. Several elements were detected, including chromium, iron, nickel, lead, and vanadium, which are crude oil components, and thallium, a component of dispersants used to degrade and dissipate crude oil. The presence of these contaminants in the manatee calf is indicative of maternal exposure, metabolism, and newborn transference via placenta and lactation. This is the first report of mother-calf metal transfer in manatees, highlighting the species' vulnerability and potential long-term population dynamics effects, and the first report for several metals and metalloids in these animals, laying the foundation for future research efforts. These findings highlight the urgent need for continued environmental monitoring, ecotoxicological assessments, and conservation initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila S Lemos
- Institute of Environment, Florida International University, 3000 NE 151st St, North Miami, FL 33181, United States.
| | - Fernanda L N Attademo
- Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade, Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Conservação de Mamíferos Aquáticos (ICMBio/CMA), Santos, SP, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Laboratório de Ecologia, Comportamento e Conservação, Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego, s/n. Cidade Universitária, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Lauro Henrique de Paiva
- Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade, Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Conservação de Mamíferos Aquáticos (ICMBio/CMA), Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandra F Costa
- Instituto Bicho D'água: Conservação Socioambiental and Grupo de Estudos de Mamíferos Aquáticos da Amazônia (GEMAM), Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Laura M A Reis
- Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade (ICMBio/COMOB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Fábia de Oliveira Luna
- Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade, Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Conservação de Mamíferos Aquáticos (ICMBio/CMA), Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis
- Laboratório de Avaliação e Promoção da Saúde Ambiental, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Av. Brasil, 4.365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil.
| | - Salvatore Siciliano
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública/Fiocruz, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1.480 - sala 10, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-900, Brazil; Grupo de Estudos de Mamíferos Marinhos da Região dos Lagos, GEMM-Lagos, Araruama, RJ, Brazil
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2
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Boyi JO, Sonne C, Dietz R, Rigét F, Siebert U, Lehnert K. Gene expression and trace elements in Greenlandic ringed seals (Pusa hispida). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 244:117839. [PMID: 38081340 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Marine top predators such as ringed seals biomagnify environmental contaminants; and with the increasing human activities in the Arctic, ringed seals are exposed to biologically significant concentrations of trace elements resulting in reproductive impairment, immunosuppression, and neurological damages. Little is known about the molecular effects of heavy metals on these vulnerable apex predators suffering from a rapidly changing Arctic with significant loss of sea-ice. In the present study, concentrations of cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) were measured in liver of sixteen Greenlandic ringed seals (nine adults and seven subadults) together with molecular biomarkers involved in bio-transformation, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption and immune activity in blood and blubber. The concentrations of trace elements increased in the following order: Hg > Se > Cd with levels of mercury and selenium being highest in adults. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARα, estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1), thyroid hormone receptor alpha (TRα) and interleukin - 2 (IL-2) mRNA transcript levels were highest in blubber, while heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and interleukin - 10 (IL-10) were significantly higher in blood. There were no significant correlations between the concentrations of trace elements and mRNA transcript levels suggesting that stressors other than the trace elements investigated are responsible for the changes in gene expression levels. Since Hg seems to increase in Greenlandic ringed seals, there is a need to re-enforce health monitoring of this ringed seal population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Ometere Boyi
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany.
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Frank Rigét
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany.
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany.
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3
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Peterson SH, Peterson MG, Ackerman JT, Debier C, Goetsch C, Holser RR, Hückstädt LA, Johnson JC, Keates TR, McDonald BI, McHuron EA, Costa DP. Foraging behavior and age affect maternal transfer of mercury to northern elephant seal pups. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4693. [PMID: 38409311 PMCID: PMC10897339 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54527-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Deep ocean foraging northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) consume fish and squid in remote depths of the North Pacific Ocean. Contaminants bioaccumulated from prey are subsequently transferred by adult females to pups during gestation and lactation, linking pups to mercury contamination in mesopelagic food webs (200-1000 m depths). Maternal transfer of mercury to developing seal pups was related to maternal mercury contamination and was strongly correlated with maternal foraging behavior (biotelemetry and isotopes). Mercury concentrations in lanugo (hair grown in utero) were among the highest observed worldwide for young pinnipeds (geometric mean 23.01 μg/g dw, range 8.03-63.09 μg/g dw; n = 373); thus, some pups may be at an elevated risk of sub-lethal adverse health effects. Fetal mercury exposure was affected by maternal foraging geographic location and depth; mercury concentrations were highest in pups of the deepest diving, pelagic females. Moreover, pup lanugo mercury concentrations were strongly repeatable among successive pups of individual females, demonstrating relative consistency in pup mercury exposure based on maternal foraging strategies. Northern elephant seals are biosentinels of a remote deep-sea ecosystem. Our results suggest that mercury within North Pacific mesopelagic food webs may also pose an elevated risk to other mesopelagic-foraging predators and their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Peterson
- Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, U.S. Geological Survey, 800 Business Park Drive Suite D, Dixon, CA, USA.
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA.
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA.
| | - Michael G Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, U.S. Geological Survey, 800 Business Park Drive Suite D, Dixon, CA, USA
| | - Cathy Debier
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Chandra Goetsch
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
- CSS, Inc, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Rachel R Holser
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Luis A Hückstädt
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, UK
| | - Jennifer C Johnson
- Moss Landing Marine Labs, San Jose State University, Moss Landing, CA, USA
| | - Theresa R Keates
- Department of Ocean Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A McHuron
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Daniel P Costa
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
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4
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Szteren D, Aurioles-Gamboa D, Campos-Villegas LE, Alava JJ. Metal-specific biomagnification and trophic dilution in the coastal foodweb of the California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) off Bahía Magdalena, Mexico: The role of the benthic-pelagic foodweb in the trophic transfer of trace and toxic metals. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115263. [PMID: 37515868 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115263] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Trace metals concentrations along with stable isotopes ratios were measured in marine algae, sea grass, sponges, echinoderms, mollusks, crustaceans, fishes, and the California sea lion, to assess the bioaccumulation potential and detect potential risks for top predators off Bahia Magdalena, Mexico. We assessed the trophic magnification factor (TMF) to determine the potential for biomagnification of 11 trace metals. The concentrations of Fe and Zn were one order of magnitude higher than all other metals. Concentrations of As, Cu, Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn and Ni correlated negatively with trophic level, supporting trophic dilution (TMF < 1, p > 0.05), while Zn and Hg had significant trophic magnification (TMF > 1, p < 0.05) when assessing only the benthic-pelagic foodweb. This research provides a baseline concentration of metals in multiple species, metal-specific foodweb bioaccumulation and biomagnification of mercury, underscoring the key role of the macrobenthic community as biovectors for trophic transfer of Hg through the foodweb to the California sea lion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Szteren
- Laboratorio de Zoología Vertebrados, Departamento de Ecología y Evolución, Facultad de Ciencias, Iguá 4225, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay.
| | - David Aurioles-Gamboa
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Pinnípedos "Burney J. Le Boeuf", Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas (CICIMAR), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Avenida IPN, s/n Colonia Playa Polo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23096 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - Lorena Elizabeth Campos-Villegas
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones y Estudios sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo (CIIEMAD), Calle 30 de junio de 1520 s/n, Col. La Laguna Ticomán, C.P. 07340 Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Mexico
| | - Juan José Alava
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit & Nippon Foundation-Ocean Litter Project, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, AERL 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Fundación Ecuatoriana para El Estudio de Mamíferos Marinos (FEMM), Guayaquil, Ecuador
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5
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Plön S, Roussouw N, Uren R, Naidoo K, Siebert U, Cliff G, Bouwman H. Elements in muscle tissue of three dolphin species from the east coast of South Africa. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114707. [PMID: 36860028 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We investigated elemental concentrations in muscle tissue of three species of dolphins incidentally bycaught off the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, South Africa. Thirty-six major, minor and trace elements were analysed in Indian Ocean humpback dolphin Sousa plumbea (n = 36), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin Tursiops aduncus (n = 32) and the Common dolphin Delphinus delphis (n = 8). Significant differences in concentration between the three species were observed for 11 elements (cadmium, iron, manganese, sodium, platinum, antimony, selenium, strontium, uranium, vanadium and zinc). Mercury concentrations (maximum 29 mg/kg dry mass) were generally higher than those reported for coastal dolphin species found elsewhere. Our results reflect a combination of species differences in habitat, feeding ecology, age, and possibly species physiology and exposure to pollution levels. This study confirms the high organic pollutant concentrations documented previously for these species from the same location, and provides a well-founded case for the need to reduce pollutant sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Plön
- Bayworld Centre for Research and Education (BCRE), Port Elizabeth, South Africa; Medical Virology, Institute of Pathology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - N Roussouw
- Bayworld Centre for Research and Education (BCRE), Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - R Uren
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - K Naidoo
- KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board (KZNSB), Umhlanga Rocks, South Africa
| | - U Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - G Cliff
- KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board (KZNSB), Umhlanga Rocks, South Africa; School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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6
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Andvik C, Haug T, Lyche JL, Borgå K. Emerging and legacy contaminants in common minke whale from the Barents sea. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 319:121001. [PMID: 36610650 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including brominated flame retardants (BFRs), perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and metals, can accumulate in marine mammals and be transferred to offspring. In this study, we analyzed 64 lipophilic POPs, including four emerging BFRs, in the blubber, liver and muscle of 17 adult common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) from the Barents Sea to investigate occurrence and tissue partitioning. In addition, the placental transfer concentration ratios of 14 PFAS and 17 metals were quantified in the muscle of nine female-fetus pairs to investigate placental transfer. Legacy lipophilic POPs were the dominating compound group in every tissue, and we observed generally lower levels compared to previous studies from 1992 to 2001. We detected the emerging BFRs hexabromobenzene (HBB) and pentabromotoluene (PBT), but in low levels compared to the legacy POPs. We detected nine PFAS, and levels of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) were higher than detected from the same population in 2011, whilst levels of Hg were comparable to 2011. Levels of lipophilic contaminants were higher in blubber compared to muscle and liver on both a wet weight and lipid adjusted basis, but tissue partitioning of the emerging BFRs could not be determined due to the high number of samples below the limit of detection. The highest muscle ΣPFAS levels were quantified in fetuses (23 ± 8.7 ng/g ww), followed by adult males (7.2 ± 2.0 ng/gg ww) and adult females (4.5 ± 1.1 ng/g ww), showing substantial placental transfer from mother to fetus. In contrast, Hg levels in the fetus were lower than the mother. Levels were under thresholds for risk of health effects in the whales. This study is the first to report occurrence and placental transfer of emerging contaminants in common minke whales from the Barents Sea, contributing valuable new data on pollutant levels in Arctic wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Andvik
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, NO-0316, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tore Haug
- Institute of Marine Research, Fram Centre, PO Box 6606, Stakkevollan, NO-9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jan L Lyche
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432, Ås, Norway
| | - Katrine Borgå
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, NO-0316, Oslo, Norway.
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7
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Taylor S, Terkildsen M, McQuilty R, Lee D, Wing-Simpson A, Gray R. Non-essential heavy metals and protective effects of selenium against mercury toxicity in endangered Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) pups with hookworm disease. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 169:107521. [PMID: 36148712 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The endangered Australian sea lion, Neophoca cinerea, faces ongoing population decline. Identification of key threats to N. cinerea population recovery, including disease and pollutants, is an objective of the species' recovery plan. Previous studies have identified Uncinaria sanguinis, an intestinal nematode, as a significant cause of disease and mortality in N. cinerea pups. Given the impact of heavy metals on the immune response, investigation of these pollutants is critical. To this end, the concentrations of arsenic (As), total mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb) and selenium (Se) were determined in blood collected from N. cinerea pups sampled during the 2017/18, 2019 and 2020/21 breeding seasons at Seal Bay Conservation Park, South Australia. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in Hg, As, Cr, and Se concentrations and molar ratio of Se:Hg were seen between breeding seasons. Pup age, maternal parity and inter-individual foraging behaviour were considered factors driving these differences. The concentrations of Hg (357, 198 and 241 µg/L) and As (225, 834 and 608 µg/L) were high in 2017/18, 2019 and 2020/21 respectively with Hg concentrations in the blood of N. cinerea pups above toxicological thresholds reported for marine mammals. The concentration of Se (1332, 647, 763 µg/L) and molar ratio of Se:Hg (9.47, 7.98 and 6.82) were low compared to other pinniped pups, indicating potential vulnerability of pups to the toxic effects of Hg. Significant (p < 0.05) negative associations for Pb and Cd with several red blood cell parameters suggest they could be exacerbating the anaemia caused by hookworm disease. Temporal (age-related) changes in element concentrations were also seen, such that pup age needs to be considered when interpreting bioaccumulation patterns. Further investigation of the role of elevated heavy metal concentrations on N. cinerea pup health, disease and development is recommended, particularly with respect to immunological impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Taylor
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | | | - Robert McQuilty
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - David Lee
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - Aileen Wing-Simpson
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - Rachael Gray
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
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8
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Fernández-Robledo A, Lares ML, Schramm-Urrutia Y. Trace metal concentrations in California sea lions from rookeries exposed to different levels of coastal urbanization in Baja California, Mexico. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114163. [PMID: 36182783 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114163] [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: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of total mercury, total selenium, and cadmium ([THg], [TSe], [Cd]) were determined in hair of California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) pups from four islands of the Gulf of California and the Baja California Pacific coast (NG, CG, NP, and CP) to identify geographical differences and the effect of Se against Hg toxicity (TSe:THg molar ratio). THg displayed a strong north-south trend for both ecoregions, while TSe presented a significantly high concentration only for CG. TSe:THg molar ratios decreased when [THg] increased, with the lowest ratios presenting in NG pups, in which [THg] exceeded toxicological thresholds of concern. [Cd] presented similar values at all study sites except CG, which presented the lowest level. The present study shows that proximity to urbanized coastal areas has a strong influence on [THg] in pups, while [TSe] and [Cd] are probably more related to the physiological requirements of the species, and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fernández-Robledo
- Departamento de Oceanografía Biológica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Km. 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Ensenada 22860, Baja California, Mexico
| | - M L Lares
- Departamento de Oceanografía Biológica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Km. 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Ensenada 22860, Baja California, Mexico.
| | - Y Schramm-Urrutia
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Carretera Transpeninsular Ensenada-Tijuana No. 3917, Fraccionamiento Playitas, 22860 Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
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9
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Toxic and essential trace element concentrations in Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) skeletal muscle varies by location and reproductive status. Polar Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-022-03069-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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10
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Kehrig HA, Hauser-Davis RA, Muelbert MMC, Almeida MG, Di Beneditto APM, Rezende CE. Mercury and stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in the natal Fur of two Antarctic pinniped species. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 288:132500. [PMID: 34656627 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132500] [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: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Southern elephant seal (SES) and Antarctic fur seal (AFS) are short Southern Ocean food web top predators and are spatial and temporal trend bioindicators of Antarctic Hg bioavailability. Hg, stable isotope composition (δ13C and δ15N) and trophic position (TP) regarding sex were determined using lanugo samples from Antarctic pinnipeds pups (SES n = 35 and AFS n = 11). Hg concentrations in over 50% of the SES pups (mean 5.9 ± 3.1 mg kg-1 dry wt.) are compatible with those found to cause neurologic damage to polar bears in the Arctic. No significant differences regarding sexes for SES or AFS are found based on mean Hg concentrations normalized by body weight. δ15N values and TPs are similar among both species, indicating that gestating SES and AFS mothers feed at the same trophic level. Significantly different δ13C values were found, indicating distinct feeding grounds for mothers belonging to both species when pup lanugo is formed in utero; while SES females like to feed in Antarctic waters, AFS females remain in sub-Antarctic waters. The differences in Hg and δ13C observed for both species reflect not only contrasting feeding habits and anthropogenic Hg inputs, but also maternal foraging strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena A Kehrig
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis
- Laboratório de Avaliação e Promoção da Saúde Ambiental, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4.365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Monica M C Muelbert
- Instituto do Mar, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Carvalho de Mendonça 144, Santos, São Paulo, 11070-100, Brazil
| | - Marcelo G Almeida
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula M Di Beneditto
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos E Rezende
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
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11
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Lowe CL, Jordan-Ward R, Hunt KE, Rogers MC, Werth AJ, Gabriele C, Neilson J, von Hippel FA, Buck CL. Case studies on longitudinal mercury content in humpback whale ( Megaptera novaeangliae) baleen. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08681. [PMID: 35028462 PMCID: PMC8741512 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantification of contaminant concentrations in baleen whales is important for individual and population level health assessments but is difficult due to large migrations and infrequent resighings. The use of baleen allows for a multiyear retrospective analysis of contaminant concentrations without having to collect repeated samples from the same individual. Here we provide case studies of mercury analysis using cold vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy in three individual humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), a 44.5-year-old female and two males aged ≥35 and 66 years, over approximately three years of baleen growth. Mercury concentrations in the female's baleen were consistently 2-3 times higher than in either male. Age did not affect mercury concentrations in baleen; the younger male had comparable levels to the older male. In the female, mercury concentrations in the baleen did not change markedly during pregnancy but mercury did spike during the first half of lactation. Stable isotope profiles suggest that diet likely drove the female's high mercury concentrations. In conclusion, variations in baleen mercury content can be highly individualistic. Future studies should compare sexes as well as different populations and species to determine how the concentrations of mercury and other contaminants vary by life history parameters and geography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carley L. Lowe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff AZ 86001 USA
| | - Renee Jordan-Ward
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff AZ 86001 USA
| | - Kathleen E. Hunt
- Department of Biology, George Mason University & Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Front Royal VI 22630 USA
| | - Matthew C. Rogers
- Alaska Fisheries Science Center Auke Bay Laboratories, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Juneau AK 99801 USA
| | - Alexander J. Werth
- Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney VA 23943, USA
| | - Chris Gabriele
- Humpback Whale Monitoring Program, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Gustavus AK 99826 USA
| | - Janet Neilson
- Humpback Whale Monitoring Program, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Gustavus AK 99826 USA
| | - Frank A. von Hippel
- Department of Community, Environment & Policy, University of Arizona, Tucson AZ 85724 USA
| | - C. Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff AZ 86001 USA
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12
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Grajewska A, Falkowska L, Saniewska D, Pawliczka I. Fur and faeces - Routes of mercury elimination in the Baltic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus grypus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 717:137050. [PMID: 32062253 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on evaluating the elimination of Hg by Baltic grey seals (Halichoerus grypus grypus) via faeces and pelage. In addition, we investigated the potential for ecosystem contamination via these routes. Faeces and fur were collected in 2014-2017 from captive adult grey seals and their pups. The concentrations of total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) were measured in the samples. The amount of mercury eliminated in a labile form (the sum of the bioavailable Hg(II) and methylmercury) was also determined. An adult seal removed about 46% of mercury supplied with food via the faeces, of which only 17% was MeHg. Considering that mercury is mainly supplied to the body as MeHg, it can be assumed that mercury excreted along with faeces has undergone transformation inside the animal body. Despite the much higher THg and MeHg concentrations measured in fur, the incorporation of mercury into newly formed fur is a less effective method of Hg elimination removing just 4% of mercury entering the body via the alimentary route. The presence of mercury in lanugo is evidence of maternal transfer. First droppings of the pups were characterised by the highest content of MeHg and a low THg concentration. Then, despite the limited supply of mercury with food, and the rapid growth of the pup, the concentration of THg increased, suggesting that mercury started to be transformed into less toxic forms. It was estimated that faeces and fur expelled by seals could deliver about 800 g of mercury to the Baltic Sea. For both faeces and fur, most of the mercury (>95% for excrements and >85% for fur) was expelled in a labile form that can be quickly recycled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Grajewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Dominika Saniewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Professor Krzysztof Skóra Hel Marine Station, ul. Morska 2, 84-150 Hel, Poland
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13
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Chételat J, Ackerman JT, Eagles-Smith CA, Hebert CE. Methylmercury exposure in wildlife: A review of the ecological and physiological processes affecting contaminant concentrations and their interpretation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 711:135117. [PMID: 31831233 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) can result in detrimental health effects in wildlife. With advances in ecological indicators and analytical techniques for measurement of MeHg in a variety of tissues, numerous processes have been identified that can influence MeHg concentrations in wildlife. This review presents a synthesis of theoretical principals and applied information for measuring MeHg exposure and interpreting MeHg concentrations in wildlife. Mercury concentrations in wildlife are the net result of ecological processes influencing dietary exposure combined with physiological processes that regulate assimilation, transformation, and elimination. Therefore, consideration of both physiological and ecological processes should be integrated when formulating biomonitoring strategies. Ecological indicators, particularly stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur, compound-specific stable isotopes, and fatty acids, can be effective tools to evaluate dietary MeHg exposure. Animal species differ in their physiological capacity for MeHg elimination, and animal tissues can be inert or physiologically active, act as sites of storage, transformation, or excretion of MeHg, and vary in the timing of MeHg exposure they represent. Biological influences such as age, sex, maternal transfer, and growth or fasting are also relevant for interpretation of tissue MeHg concentrations. Wildlife tissues that represent current or near-term bioaccumulation and in which MeHg is the predominant mercury species (such as blood and eggs) are most effective for biomonitoring ecosystems and understanding landscape drivers of MeHg exposure. Further research is suggested to critically evaluate the use of keratinized external tissues to measure MeHg bioaccumulation, particularly for less-well studied wildlife such as reptiles and terrestrial mammals. Suggested methods are provided to effectively use wildlife for quantifying patterns and drivers of MeHg bioaccumulation over time and space, as well as for assessing the potential risk and toxicological effects of MeHg on wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Chételat
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA 95620, United States
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, United States
| | - Craig E Hebert
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada
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14
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Grajewska A, Falkowska L, Saniewska D, Pawliczka I. Changes in total mercury, methylmercury, and selenium blood levels during different life history stages of the Baltic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus grypus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 676:268-277. [PMID: 31048158 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.04.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Using the blood of grey seal pups, the blood and milk of female grey seals inhabiting the Hel Marine Station of Gdansk University's Institute of Oceanography (HMS), we monitored the transfer of total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), and selenium (Se) with blood during foetal life and nursing. Changes in the concentration of mercury and selenium were characterised in the pups' blood during their first three months of life when they transition from suckling, to a post-weaning fast, to eating fish. In the blood of pregnant females, there was a significant decrease in THg and MeHg concentrations throughout the gestation, indicating the transfer of these toxins through the placenta into the foetus. At no other stage of the pup's development was there such a high level of THg and MeHg as on the day of birth, despite the incorporation of mercury into the lanugo during foetal growth. This suggests that the maternal transfer of mercury during gestation may be the time of greatest mercury exposure for a young seal pup. The consumption of milk caused a rapid increase in weight and a lowering of the mercury level in the blood in the subsequent days of the pups' life. The postweaning fast was the period of the lowest mercury concentration. The switch to a diet consisting of fish caused a systematic increase in the concentration of mercury in the blood of the pups. Milk was the significant source of selenium for pups and the selenium concentration in females' blood was reduced during lactation. The nursing period seemed to have the greatest impact on the mercury and selenium blood levels in examined seals. Natural development of the grey seal pup created an opportunity to decrease the levels of toxic substances obtained through the maternal transfer during foetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Grajewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Dominika Saniewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Professor Krzysztof Skóra Hel Marine Station, ul. Morska 2, 84-150 Hel, Poland
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15
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Ewald JD, Kirk JL, Li M, Sunderland EM. Organ-specific differences in mercury speciation and accumulation across ringed seal (Phoca hispida) life stages. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 650:2013-2020. [PMID: 30290344 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.09.299] [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: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a central nervous system toxicant and exposures can adversely affect the health of marine mammals. Mercuric selenide (HgSe) in marine mammal tissues is hypothesized to result from a protective detoxification mechanism, but toxicokinetic processes contributing to its formation are poorly understood. Here, new data is reported on speciated Hg concentrations in multiple organs of n = 56 ringed seals (Phoca hispida) from Labrador, Canada, and compare concentrations to previously published data from Greenland seals. A higher proportion of Hg is found to accumulate in the kidney of young-of-the-year (YOY) ringed seals compared to adults. A toxicokinetic model for Hg species is developed and evaluated to better understand factors affecting variability in Hg concentrations among organs and across life stages. Prior work postulated that HgSe formation only occurs in the liver of mature seals, but model results suggest HgSe formation occurs across all life stages. Higher proportions of HgSe in mature seal livers compared to YOY seals likely results from the slow accumulation and elimination of HgSe (total body half-life = 500 days) compared to other Hg species. HgSe formation in the liver reduces modeled blood concentrations of MeHg by only 6%. Thus, HgSe formation may not substantially reduce MeHg transport across the blood-brain barrier of ringed seals, leaving them susceptible to the neurotoxic effects of MeHg exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Ewald
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States; Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Macdonald Campus, McGill University Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada.
| | - Jane L Kirk
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canada Centre for Inland Waters, Burlington, Ontario L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Miling Li
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Elsie M Sunderland
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
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16
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Peterson SH, Ackerman JT, Crocker DE, Costa DP. Foraging and fasting can influence contaminant concentrations in animals: an example with mercury contamination in a free-ranging marine mammal. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 285:rspb.2017.2782. [PMID: 29436501 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2017.2782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Large fluctuations in animal body mass in relation to life-history events can influence contaminant concentrations and toxicological risk. We quantified mercury concentrations in adult northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) before and after lengthy at sea foraging trips (n = 89) or fasting periods on land (n = 27), and showed that mercury concentrations in blood and muscle changed in response to these events. The highest blood mercury concentrations were observed after the breeding fast, whereas the highest muscle mercury concentrations were observed when seals returned to land to moult. Mean female blood mercury concentrations decreased by 30% across each of the two annual foraging trips, demonstrating a foraging-associated dilution of mercury concentrations as seals gained mass. Blood mercury concentrations increased by 103% and 24% across the breeding and moulting fasts, respectively, demonstrating a fasting-associated concentration of mercury as seals lost mass. In contrast to blood, mercury concentrations in female's muscle increased by 19% during the post-breeding foraging trip and did not change during the post-moulting foraging trip. While fasting, female muscle mercury concentrations increased 26% during breeding, but decreased 14% during moulting. Consequently, regardless of exposure, an animal's contaminant concentration can be markedly influenced by their annual life-history events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA .,Institute of Marine Science, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA.,US Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, Dixon, CA, USA
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- US Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, Dixon, CA, USA
| | - Daniel E Crocker
- Department of Biology, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA, USA
| | - Daniel P Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
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17
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Nehring I, Falkowska L, Staniszewska M, Pawliczka I, Bodziach K. Maternal transfer of phenol derivatives in the Baltic grey seal Halichoerus grypus grypus. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 242:1642-1651. [PMID: 30072224 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.07.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Studies of circulating levels in difference sex and age classes, and maternal transfer of bisphenol A, 4-tert-octylphenol and 4- nonylphenol in the Baltic grey seal were performed from 2014-2017. Blood was collected from long-term captive adult males, pregnant females and pups. Milk was collected from nursing females. The aim of this study was not only to determine the concentrations of phenol derivatives, i.e. bisphenol A (BPA), 4-tert-octylphenol (OP) and 4-nonylphenol (NP), but also to try to evaluate the transfer of these compounds to the next generation in the final stage of foetal life and in the first few weeks of life in juvenile marine mammals. The measurements were carried out using high performance liquid chromatography. The obtained data show that all phenol derivatives are present in the blood of males, females and pups (range <0.07-101 ng·cm-3) and in female milk (range <0.1-406.3 ng·cm-3). The main source of phenol derivatives in organisms is food exposure. Gender, age, or number of births were not observed to have a significant effect on changes in phenol derivative levels in seal blood within the breeding group. In the prenatal stage of life, a small amount of BPA and alkylphenols was passed on to the offspring through the placenta. In the blood of the offspring the concentration of these compounds exceeded the concentration in the mother's blood 1.5-fold. During nursing, females detoxified their systems. Level of phenol derivatives in the pups blood increased linearly with its increasing concentrations in the mother's milk. On the other hand, the seafood diet which started after the physiological fasting stage of the pup, stabilised the levels of phenol derivatives below 10 ng ∙ cm-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iga Nehring
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Marta Staniszewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- Professor Krzysztof Skóra Hel Marine Station, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, ul. Morska 2, 84-150, Hel, Poland
| | - Karina Bodziach
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
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18
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Trukhin AM, Kalinchuk VV. Hair mercury concentrations in the spotted seal (Phoca largha) pups from the Sea of Japan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:27133-27140. [PMID: 30022391 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2731-6] [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: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This publication presents the results of a study of the total mercury (THg) concentration in the fetal hair (lanugo) of the young spotted seals inhabiting the Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan. We analyzed samples from pups that were collected in 2014-2017 at the seal breeding grounds. The concentration of total mercury was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. The concentration of THg ranged from 1.52 to 6.68 μg/g dry weight. Mercury concentration in the lanugo exceeds that found in the environment (bottom sediments, sea water) and in other animals inhabiting the Bay. At the same time, the level was generally lower than that found in young seals of most other pinniped species (Steller sea lion Eumetopias jubatus, Northern fur seal Callorhinus ursinus, Harbor seal Phoca vitulina richardsi, Northern elephant seal Mirounga angustirostris, California sea lion Zalophus californianus) from the North Pacific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey M Trukhin
- V.I.Il'ichev Pacific Oceanological Institute, FEB RAS, 43, Baltiyskaya Street, Vladivostok, Russia, 6900041.
| | - Viktor V Kalinchuk
- V.I.Il'ichev Pacific Oceanological Institute, FEB RAS, 43, Baltiyskaya Street, Vladivostok, Russia, 6900041
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19
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Schnitzler JG, Pinzone M, Autenrieth M, van Neer A, IJsseldijk LL, Barber JL, Deaville R, Jepson P, Brownlow A, Schaffeld T, Thomé JP, Tiedemann R, Das K, Siebert U. Inter-individual differences in contamination profiles as tracer of social group association in stranded sperm whales. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10958. [PMID: 30026609 PMCID: PMC6053436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29186-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecological and physiological factors lead to different contamination patterns in individual marine mammals. The objective of the present study was to assess whether variations in contamination profiles are indicative of social structures of young male sperm whales as they might reflect a variation in feeding preferences and/or in utilized feeding grounds. We used a total of 61 variables associated with organic compounds and trace element concentrations measured in muscle, liver, kidney and blubber gained from 24 sperm whales that stranded in the North Sea in January and February 2016. Combining contaminant and genetic data, there is evidence for at least two cohorts with different origin among these stranded sperm whales; one from the Canary Island region and one from the northern part of the Atlantic. While genetic data unravel relatedness and kinship, contamination data integrate over areas, where animals occured during their lifetime. Especially in long-lived animals with a large migratory potential, as sperm whales, contamination data may carry highly relevant information about aggregation through time and space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Schnitzler
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
| | - Marianna Pinzone
- Freshwater and Oceanic sciences Unit of reSearch - Oceanology, University of Liège, Allée du 6 Août, B6C, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marijke Autenrieth
- Unit of Evolutionary Biology/Systematic Zoology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24-25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Abbo van Neer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Lonneke L IJsseldijk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathobiology, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jonathan L Barber
- Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Rob Deaville
- CSIP, Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Paul Jepson
- CSIP, Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | | | - Tobias Schaffeld
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Jean-Pierre Thomé
- Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Ecotoxicology (CART-LEAE) B6c, Liège University, Liège, Belgium
| | - Ralph Tiedemann
- Unit of Evolutionary Biology/Systematic Zoology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24-25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Krishna Das
- Freshwater and Oceanic sciences Unit of reSearch - Oceanology, University of Liège, Allée du 6 Août, B6C, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
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20
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Nehring I, Grajewska A, Falkowska L, Staniszewska M, Pawliczka I, Saniewska D. Transfer of mercury and phenol derivatives across the placenta of Baltic grey seals (Halichoerus grypus grypus). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 231:1005-1012. [PMID: 28898953 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.08.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is an intermediary organ between the female and the developing foetus. Some chemical substances, including the most harmful ones, exhibit the ability to accumulate in or penetrate through the placenta. The aim of the study was to determine the role of the placenta of the Baltic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus grypus) in the transfer of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) - (bisphenol A, 4-tert- octylphenol, 4- nonylphenol), as well as total and organic mercury. 30 placentas were collected from grey seals pupping under human care at the Hel Marine Station in the years 2007-2016. The assays were conducted using the technique of high-preformance liquid chromatography (phenol derivatives) and atomic absorption spectrometry (mercury and selenium). A measurable level of EDCs was indicated in the placentas of grey seals. It was established that the inorganic Hg form was accumulated in the placenta, and that its concentrations were an order of magnitude higher than the concentrations of the organic form, which penetrated to the foetus. Similar observations were made for phenol derivatives - bisphenol A, 4-tert- octylphenol and 4-nonylphenol. For this compound group the placenta was a barrier, but the properties of phenol derivatives suggest the possibility of their penetration through this organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iga Nehring
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Grajewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Marta Staniszewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland; Hel Marine Station, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, ul. Morska 2, 84-150, Hel, Poland
| | - Dominika Saniewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
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21
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Cransveld A, Amouroux D, Tessier E, Koutrakis E, Ozturk AA, Bettoso N, Mieiro CL, Bérail S, Barre JPG, Sturaro N, Schnitzler J, Das K. Mercury Stable Isotopes Discriminate Different Populations of European Seabass and Trace Potential Hg Sources around Europe. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:12219-12228. [PMID: 28942649 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b01307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Our study reports the first data on mercury (Hg) isotope composition in marine European fish, for seven distinct populations of the European seabass, Dicentrarchus labrax. The use of δ202Hg and Δ199Hg values in SIBER enabled us to estimate Hg isotopic niches, successfully discriminating several populations. Recursive-partitioning analyses demonstrated the relevance of Hg stable isotopes as discriminating tools. Hg isotopic values also provided insight on Hg contamination sources for biota in coastal environment. The overall narrow range of δ202Hg around Europe was suggested to be related to a global atmospheric contamination while δ202Hg at some sites was linked either to background contamination, or with local contamination sources. Δ199Hg was related to Hg levels of fish but we also suggest a relation with ecological conditions. Throughout this study, results from the Black Sea population stood out, displaying a Hg cycling similar to fresh water lakes. Our findings bring out the possibility to use Hg isotopes in order to discriminate distinct populations, to explore the Hg cycle on a large scale (Europe) and to distinguish sites contaminated by global versus local Hg source. The interest of using Hg sable isotopes to investigate the whole European Hg cycle is clearly highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Cransveld
- Laboratory for Oceanology - MARE, University of Liège , 15 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - David Amouroux
- CNRS/UNIV PAU & PAYS ADOUR, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physico-Chimie pour l'Environnement et les Materiaux, UMR5254 , 64000, PAU, France
| | - Emmanuel Tessier
- CNRS/UNIV PAU & PAYS ADOUR, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physico-Chimie pour l'Environnement et les Materiaux, UMR5254 , 64000, PAU, France
| | - Emmanuil Koutrakis
- Fisheries Research Institute , Hellenic Agricultural Organisation, 640 07 Nea Peramos, Kavala Greece
| | - Ayaka A Ozturk
- Faculty of Fisheries, Istanbul University , Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nicola Bettoso
- Agenzia Regionale per la Protezione dell'Ambiente del Friuli Venezia Giulia (ARPA FVG) , via A. La Marmora 13, 34139 Trieste, Italy
| | - Cláudia L Mieiro
- CESAM and Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro , Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sylvain Bérail
- CNRS/UNIV PAU & PAYS ADOUR, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physico-Chimie pour l'Environnement et les Materiaux, UMR5254 , 64000, PAU, France
| | - Julien P G Barre
- CNRS/UNIV PAU & PAYS ADOUR, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physico-Chimie pour l'Environnement et les Materiaux, UMR5254 , 64000, PAU, France
| | - Nicolas Sturaro
- Laboratory for Oceanology - MARE, University of Liège , 15 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Joseph Schnitzler
- Laboratory for Oceanology - MARE, University of Liège , 15 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation , 25761 Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein Germany
| | - Krishna Das
- Laboratory for Oceanology - MARE, University of Liège , 15 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
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Weng N, Wang WX. Dynamics of maternally transferred trace elements in oyster larvae and latent growth effects. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3580. [PMID: 28620168 PMCID: PMC5472574 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03753-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the maternal transfer of contaminants and their potential effects has great implications for a valid ecological assessment of environmental pollution. However, relevant studies on marine bivalves are very limited. Here, we examined the maternal transfer of trace metals in populations of oyster Crassostrea hongkongensis with contrasting metal exposure histories. Elevated accumulation of trace metals was observed in eggs and larvae from contaminated sites, suggesting maternal transfer of multi-metals in natural oyster populations. The dynamics of maternally transferred metals was for the first time documented in this study. We demonstrated that excessively transferred metals in contaminated larvae were rapidly eliminated during the early developmental stage, and the efflux rate of metals in larvae was greatly dependent on environmental contamination level. These results provided the first field evidence of modified metal biokinetics in offsprings due to exposure history of adults in marine bivalves. Moreover, egg production was negatively correlated with the contamination level of metals in eggs. There was a further lagged growth in the contaminated larvae, indicating the potential adverse and latent effects of maternally transferred metals on the viability of oyster offspring. Our findings highlighted the importance of transgenerational studies on long-term metal exposure in marine bivalves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanyan Weng
- Marine Environmental Laboratory, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China.,Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology (CMECT), College of Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- Marine Environmental Laboratory, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China. .,Center for Marine Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology (CMECT), College of Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China.
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23
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Hitchcock DJ, Varpe Ø, Andersen T, Borgå K. Effects of reproductive strategies on pollutant concentrations in pinnipeds: a meta-analysis. OIKOS 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.03955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Øystein Varpe
- The University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS); Longyearbyen Norway
- Akvaplan-niva, Fram Centre; Tromsø Norway
| | - Tom Andersen
- Dept of Biosciences; Univ. of Oslo; NO-0316 Oslo Norway
| | - Katrine Borgå
- Dept of Biosciences; Univ. of Oslo; NO-0316 Oslo Norway
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24
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Zvěřina O, Coufalík P, Brat K, Červenka R, Kuta J, Mikeš O, Komárek J. Leaching of mercury from seal carcasses into Antarctic soils. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:1424-1431. [PMID: 27783245 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
More than 400 seal mummies and skeletons are now mapped in the northern part of James Ross Island, Antarctica. Decomposing carcasses represent a rare source of both organic matter and associated elements for the soil. Owing to their high trophic position, seals are known to carry a significant mercury body burden. This work focuses on the extent of the mercury input from seal carcasses and shows that such carcasses represent locally significant sources of mercury and methylmercury for the environment. Mercury contents in soil samples from the surrounding areas were determined using a single-purpose AAS mercury analyzer. For the determination of methylmercury, an ultra-sensitive isotopic dilution HPLC-ICP-MS technique was used. In the soils lying directly under seal carcasses, mercury contents were higher, with levels reaching almost 40 μg/kg dry weight of which methylmercury formed up to 2.8 % of the total. The spatial distribution implies rather slow vertical transport to the lower soil layers instead of a horizontal spread. For comparison, the background level of mercury in soils of the investigated area was found to be 8 μg/kg dry weight, with methylmercury accounting for less than 0.1 %. Apart from the direct mercury input, an enhanced level of nutrients in the vicinity of carcasses enables the growth of lichens and mosses with accumulative ability with respect to metals. The enhanced capacity of soil to retain mercury is also anticipated due to the high content of total organic carbon (from 1.6 to 7.5 %). According to the results, seal remains represent a clear source of mercury in the observed area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Zvěřina
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Pavel Coufalík
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Analytical Chemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Veveří 97, 602 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kristián Brat
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and TB, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and TB, University Hospital Brno, Jihlavská 20, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rostislav Červenka
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kuta
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Mikeš
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Komárek
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37, Brno, Czech Republic
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25
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Baptista G, Kehrig HA, Di Beneditto APM, Hauser-Davis RA, Almeida MG, Rezende CE, Siciliano S, de Moura JF, Moreira I. Mercury, selenium and stable isotopes in four small cetaceans from the Southeastern Brazilian coast: Influence of feeding strategy. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 218:1298-1307. [PMID: 27593348 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.08.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Dolphins are good bioindicators of the contamination status of marine ecosystems, since their dietary and habitat plasticity in both coastal and offshore ecotypes provide information on the trace elements levels originated from natural and anthropogenic sources. In this context, this study aimed to investigate provides mercury (Hg), selenium (Se) levels, trophic ecology and feeding environments of four small cetaceans (Tursiops truncatus, Steno bredanensis, Sotalia guianensis and Pontoporia blainvillei) inhabiting the central-northern coast of Rio de Janeiro State, southeastern Brazil. For the latter, δ15N and δ13C stable isotopes were used as indicators in this regard. Stable isotope values indicate that the four studied species have distinctive foraging habitats, coastal and least coastal, and occupy different trophic positions. The significant relationship found between muscle Hg and δ15N suggests that individual foraging preference remains relatively constant for the studied dolphin species over extended periods. The individual prey size and species are probably responsible for the differences found in Hg and Se concentrations in muscle tissue among all dolphin species. The vulnerable small coastal cetacean, P. blainvillei, which feeds on small teleost fish and squid, presented the lowest muscular Hg concentrations (less than 3.5 μg g-1 dry wt.). Meanwhile, S. bredanensis is more likely to uptake large amounts of trace elements among the four dolphin species, due to its feeding habits mainly being large offshore fish that accumulate high amounts of trace elements in organs and tissues. Differences found between Hg concentrations in fetus-mother pairs were much higher in S. guianensis than in P. blainvillei, suggesting that maternal contribution of Hg via placenta was more significant for the former.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilberto Baptista
- Departamento de Química, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22453-900, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Helena A Kehrig
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ 28013-602, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula M Di Beneditto
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ 28013-602, Brazil.
| | - Rachel A Hauser-Davis
- Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas - Biodiversidade Neotropical, 22290-240, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo G Almeida
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ 28013-602, Brazil.
| | - Carlos E Rezende
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ 28013-602, Brazil.
| | - Salvatore Siciliano
- Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Pavilhão Mourisco - sala 122, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-360, Brazil.
| | - Jailson F de Moura
- Leibniz Center for Tropical Marine Ecology - ZMT, Bremen, 28359, Germany.
| | - Isabel Moreira
- Departamento de Química, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22453-900, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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26
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Peterson SH, Ackerman JT, Costa DP. Mercury correlations among blood, muscle, and hair of northern elephant seals during the breeding and molting fasts. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2016; 35:2103-2110. [PMID: 26757244 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3365] [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: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) biomonitoring and toxicological risk assessments for marine mammals commonly sample different tissues, making comparisons with toxicity benchmarks and among species and regions difficult. Few studies have examined how life-history events, such as fasting, influence the relationship between total Hg (THg) concentrations in different tissues. The authors evaluated the relationships between THg concentrations in blood, muscle, and hair of female and male northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) at the start and end of the breeding and molting fasts. The relationships between tissues varied among tissue pairs and differed by sampling period and sex. Blood and muscle were generally related at all time periods; however, hair, an inert tissue, did not strongly represent the metabolically active tissues (blood and muscle) at all times of year. The strongest relationships between THg concentrations in hair and those in blood or muscle were observed during periods of active hair growth (end of the molting period) or during time periods when internal body conditions were similar to those when the hair was grown (end of the breeding fast). The results indicate that THg concentrations in blood or muscle can be translated to the other tissue type using the equations developed but that THg concentrations in hair were generally a poor index of internal THg concentrations except during the end of fasting periods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2103-2110. © 2016 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- Dixon Field Station, Western Ecological Research Center, US Geological Survey, Dixon, California, USA
| | - Daniel P Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
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27
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Peterson SH, Ackerman JT, Costa DP. Marine foraging ecology influences mercury bioaccumulation in deep-diving northern elephant seals. Proc Biol Sci 2016; 282:rspb.2015.0710. [PMID: 26085591 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.0710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury contamination of oceans is prevalent worldwide and methylmercury concentrations in the mesopelagic zone (200-1000 m) are increasing more rapidly than in surface waters. Yet mercury bioaccumulation in mesopelagic predators has been understudied. Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) biannually travel thousands of kilometres to forage within coastal and open-ocean regions of the northeast Pacific Ocean. We coupled satellite telemetry, diving behaviour and stable isotopes (carbon and nitrogen) from 77 adult females, and showed that variability among individuals in foraging location, diving depth and δ(13)C values were correlated with mercury concentrations in blood and muscle. We identified three clusters of foraging strategies, and these resulted in substantially different mercury concentrations: (i) deeper-diving and offshore-foraging seals had the greatest mercury concentrations, (ii) shallower-diving and offshore-foraging seals had intermediate levels, and (iii) coastal and more northerly foraging seals had the lowest mercury concentrations. Additionally, mercury concentrations were lower at the end of the seven-month-long foraging trip (n = 31) than after the two-month- long post-breeding trip (n = 46). Our results indicate that foraging behaviour influences mercury exposure and mesopelagic predators foraging in the northeast Pacific Ocean may be at high risk for mercury bioaccumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- US Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA 95620, USA
| | - Daniel P Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
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28
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McHuron EA, Peterson SH, Ackerman JT, Melin SR, Harris JD, Costa DP. Effects of Age, Colony, and Sex on Mercury Concentrations in California Sea Lions. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:46-55. [PMID: 26259982 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0201-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We measured total mercury (THg) concentrations in California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) and examined how concentrations varied with age class, colony, and sex. Because Hg exposure is primarily via diet, we used nitrogen (δ (15)N) and carbon (δ (13)C) stable isotopes to determine if intraspecific differences in THg concentrations could be explained by feeding ecology. Blood and hair were collected from 21 adult females and 57 juveniles from three colonies in central and southern California (San Nicolas, San Miguel, and Año Nuevo Islands). Total Hg concentrations ranged from 0.01 to 0.31 μg g(-1) wet weight (ww) in blood and 0.74 to 21.00 μg g(-1) dry weight (dw) in hair. Adult females had greater mean THg concentrations than juveniles in blood (0.15 vs. 0.03 μg(-1) ww) and hair (10.10 vs. 3.25 μg(-1) dw). Age class differences in THg concentrations did not appear to be driven by trophic level or habitat type because there were no differences in δ (15)N or δ (13)C values between adults and juveniles. Total Hg concentrations in adult females were 54 % (blood) and 24 % (hair) greater in females from San Miguel than females from San Nicolas Island, which may have been because sea lions from the two islands foraged in different areas. For juveniles, we detected some differences in THg concentrations with colony and sex, although these were likely due to sampling effects and not ecological differences. Overall, THg concentrations in California sea lions were within the range documented for other marine mammals and were generally below toxicity benchmarks for fish-eating wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A McHuron
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA.
| | - Sarah H Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA, 95620, USA
| | - Sharon R Melin
- National Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98155, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Harris
- National Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98155, USA
| | - Daniel P Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
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Lehnert K, Ronnenberg K, Weijs L, Covaci A, Das K, Hellwig V, Siebert U. Xenobiotic and Immune-Relevant Molecular Biomarkers in Harbor Seals as Proxies for Pollutant Burden and Effects. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:106-120. [PMID: 26296438 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0202-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Harbor seals are exposed to increasing pressure caused by anthropogenic activities in their marine environment. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and trace elements are hazardous contaminants that accumulate in tissues of harbor seals. POPs and trace elements can negatively affect the immune-system and have been reported, e.g., to increase susceptibility to viral infections in seals. Biomarkers of the xenobiotic metabolism, cytokines, and heat-shock protein as cell mediators of the immune-system were established to evaluate the impact of environmental stressors on harbor seals. Harbor seals (n = 54) were captured on sandbanks in the North Sea during 2009-2012. Health assessments, including hematology, were performed, and RNAlater blood samples were taken and analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Normalized transcript copy numbers were correlated to hematology and POP concentration in blood and trace metals in blood and fur. A significant correlation between xenobiotic markers and contaminant burden was found. Significant interrelationships between markers and POP compounds, as well as with season, weight, and hematology values, indicate that biomarkers reflect pollutant exposure and effects. A significant relationship between cortisol levels and heat-shock protein expression was observed indicating stress experienced during restraint of the seals. Interleukin-10 transcription showed significant correlations with trace elements in fur pointing toward immune regulatory effects of metal exposure. The molecular markers prove to be an important noninvasive tool that reflects contaminant exposure and the impact of anthropogenic stressors in seal species. The connection between interleukin-2, xenobiotic markers, and pollutants may indicate immune suppression in animals exposed to contaminants with subsequent susceptibility to inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany.
- Institute for Coastal Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, 21502, Geesthacht, Germany.
| | - Katrin Ronnenberg
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Liesbeth Weijs
- Toxicological Center, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
- National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology (ENTOX), The University of Queensland, 39 Kessels Road, Coopers Plains, QLD, 4108, Australia
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Center, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Krishna Das
- Laboratory of Oceanology-MARE Centre, University of Liege, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Veronika Hellwig
- Institute for Coastal Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, 21502, Geesthacht, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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30
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Peterson SH, McHuron EA, Kennedy SN, Ackerman JT, Rea LD, Castellini JM, O'Hara TM, Costa DP. Evaluating Hair as a Predictor of Blood Mercury: The Influence of Ontogenetic Phase and Life History in Pinnipeds. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:28-45. [PMID: 26149950 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0174-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) biomonitoring of pinnipeds increasingly utilizes nonlethally collected tissues such as hair and blood. The relationship between total Hg concentrations ([THg]) in these tissues is not well understood for marine mammals, but it can be important for interpretation of tissue concentrations with respect to ecotoxicology and biomonitoring. We examined [THg] in blood and hair in multiple age classes of four pinniped species. For each species, we used paired blood and hair samples to quantify the ability of [THg] in hair to predict [THg] in blood at the time of sampling and examined the influence of varying ontogenetic phases and life history of the sampled animals. Overall, we found that the relationship between [THg] in hair and blood was affected by factors including age class, weaning status, growth, and the time difference between hair growth and sample collection. Hair [THg] was moderately to strongly predictive of current blood [THg] for adult female Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus), adult female California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), and adult harbor seals (Phoca vitulina), whereas hair [THg] was poorly predictive or not predictive (different times of year) of blood [THg] for adult northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris). Within species, except for very young pups, hair [THg] was a weaker predictor of blood [THg] for prereproductive animals than for adults likely due to growth, variability in foraging behavior, and transitions between ontogenetic phases. Our results indicate that the relationship between hair [THg] and blood [THg] in pinnipeds is variable and that ontogenetic phase and life history should be considered when interpreting [THg] in these tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Peterson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A McHuron
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Stephanie N Kennedy
- Division of Wildlife Conservation, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Fairbanks, AK, 99701, USA
- Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 757750, Fairbanks, AK, 99775, USA
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA, 95620, USA
| | - Lorrie D Rea
- Institute of Northern Engineering, Water and Environmental Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 755910, Fairbanks, AK, 99775, USA
| | - J Margaret Castellini
- Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 757750, Fairbanks, AK, 99775, USA
| | - Todd M O'Hara
- Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 757750, Fairbanks, AK, 99775, USA
| | - Daniel P Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
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31
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Noël M, Jeffries S, Lambourn DM, Telmer K, Macdonald R, Ross PS. Mercury Accumulation in Harbour Seals from the Northeastern Pacific Ocean: The Role of Transplacental Transfer, Lactation, Age and Location. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:56-66. [PMID: 26159879 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0193-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) bioaccumulates in the aquatic food chain in the form of methylmercury, a compound well known for its neurotoxicity. We analyzed total mercury (THg) in hair collected from 209 harbour seals captured at 10 sites in British Columbia (Canada) and Washington State (USA) between 2003 and 2010. In addition, laser ablation inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) allowed for a highly refined analysis of THg accumulation over time by examining nine whiskers taken from 4- to 6-week-old pups. We estimate that THg concentrations in pups increased sharply at a point corresponding to mid- to late gestation of their time in utero (4.7 ± 0.8 and 6.6 ± 1.3 µg/g dry weight (dw), respectively), and then again at the onset of nursing (8.1 ± 1.3 µg/g dw). These abrupt changes highlight the importance of both pre- and post-natal THg transfer from the mother to the growing fetus and the newborn pup. While THg levels varied among sites, hair analyses from seals collected at the same site demonstrated the influence of age in THg accumulation with pups (5.3 ± 0.3 µg/g) and juveniles (4.5 ± 0.5 µg/g) having lower levels than those in adults (8.3 ± 0.8 µg/g). Our results revealed that 33 % of the pups sampled (n = 167) had THg levels that surpassed a mammalian hair threshold for neurochemical alterations. This study suggests that Hg could represent a health concern to marine wildlife, especially as atmospheric emissions of this toxic element from human activities in the Pacific Rim and worldwide continue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Noël
- School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8W 3P6, Canada
- Ocean Pollution Research Program, Coastal Ocean Research Institute, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Center, P.O. Box 3232, Vancouver, BC, V6B 3X8, Canada
| | - Steven Jeffries
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 7801 Philips Road, Lakewood, WA, 98498, USA
| | - Dyanna M Lambourn
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 7801 Philips Road, Lakewood, WA, 98498, USA
| | - Kevin Telmer
- School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8W 3P6, Canada
- Artisanal Gold Council, 101-732 Cormorant St., Victoria, BC, V8W 4A5, Canada
| | - Robie Macdonald
- Institute of Ocean Sciences, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, P.O. Box 6000, Sidney, BC, V8L 4B2, Canada
| | - Peter S Ross
- Ocean Pollution Research Program, Coastal Ocean Research Institute, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Center, P.O. Box 3232, Vancouver, BC, V6B 3X8, Canada.
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Lyytikäinen M, Pätynen J, Hyvärinen H, Sipilä T, Kunnasranta M. Mercury and Selenium Balance in Endangered Saimaa Ringed Seal Depend on Age and Sex. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:11808-11816. [PMID: 26372071 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b01555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The endangered Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis) is exposed to relatively high concentrations of mercury (Hg) in freshwaters poor in selenium (Se), a known antagonist of Hg. The impact of age and sex on the bioaccumulation of Hg and Se was studied by analyzing liver, muscle, and hair samples from seals of different age groups. Adult females were found to accumulate significantly more Hg in the liver (with ca. 60% as HgSe), and less Hg in the muscles compared to adult males, which may be explained by accelerated metabolism during gestation and lactation. In adult seals, molar Se:Hg ratios in the muscles fall below one, which is considered a threshold for the emergence of adverse effects. As a result, Saimaa ringed seals may be at risk of developing health and reproductive problems. According to mass balance calculations, the pups are exposed to considerable amounts (μg/d) of mercury during gestation, although lactation is their main exposure route. In lanugo pups, Hg concentrates in the hair, and molting serves as a main detoxification route. For other age groups, demethylation followed by the formation of HgSe is the main detoxification route, and the demethylation capability develops in pups by the time of weaning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merja Lyytikäinen
- Department of Biology, University of Eastern Finland , P.O. Box 111, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Juuso Pätynen
- Department of Biology, University of Eastern Finland , P.O. Box 111, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Heikki Hyvärinen
- Department of Biology, University of Eastern Finland , P.O. Box 111, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Tero Sipilä
- Parks & Wildlife Finland of Metsähallitus , Akselinkatu 8, FIN-57130 Savonlinna, Finland
| | - Mervi Kunnasranta
- Department of Biology, University of Eastern Finland , P.O. Box 111, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland
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Lehnert K, Müller S, Weirup L, Ronnenberg K, Pawliczka I, Rosenberger T, Siebert U. Molecular biomarkers in grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) to evaluate pollutant exposure, health and immune status. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2014; 88:311-318. [PMID: 25220314 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Grey seals as top-predators bioaccumulate contaminants and can be considered as sentinels of eco-system health. Pups are weaned after a short nursing period, characterised by an enormous lipid transfer and exposure to contaminants. This study established molecular biomarkers of the xenobiotic metabolism and immune system to help assess health and immune status. mRNA transcription of AHR, ARNT, PPARα and cytokine IL-2 and heat-shock-protein HSP70 was measured in blood of grey seal pups and adults in rehabilitation and permanent care using RT-qPCR and compared to rehabilitating harbour seal pups and haematology values. In pups highest levels at admission in xenobiotic biomarker, HSP70 and cytokine transcription may show contaminant exposure via lactation, stress during abandonment and dehydration. The significant decrease may be linked to diet, health improvement and adaptation. Adults showed higher levels and more variation in biomarker transcription and clear species-specific differences between harbour and grey seal pups were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany; Institute for Coastal Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, 21502 Geesthacht, Germany.
| | - S Müller
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - L Weirup
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - K Ronnenberg
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - I Pawliczka
- Hel Marine Station, University of Gdansk, Morska 2, 84-150 Hel, Poland
| | - T Rosenberger
- Seal Centre Friedrichskoog, An der Seeschleuse 4, 25718 Friedrichskoog, Germany
| | - U Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany
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McHuron EA, Harvey JT, Castellini JM, Stricker CA, O'Hara TM. Selenium and mercury concentrations in harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) from central California: health implications in an urbanized estuary. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2014; 83:48-57. [PMID: 24823685 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We measured total selenium and total mercury concentrations ([TSe] and [THg]) in hair (n=138) and blood (n=73) of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) from California to assess variation by geography and sex, and inferred feeding relationships based on carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur stable isotopes. Harbor seals from Hg-contaminated sites had significantly greater [THg], and lesser [TSe] and TSe:THg molar ratios than seals from a relatively uncontaminated site. Males had significantly greater [THg] than females at all locations. Sulfur stable isotope values explained approximately 25% of the variability in [THg], indicating increased Hg exposure for seals with a greater use of estuarine prey species. Decreased [TSe] in harbor seals from Hg-contaminated regions may indicate a relative Se deficiency to mitigate the toxic effects of Hg. Further investigation into the Se status and the potential negative impact of Hg on harbor seals from Hg-contaminated sites is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A McHuron
- Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, 8272 Moss Landing Road, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA.
| | - James T Harvey
- Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, 8272 Moss Landing Road, Moss Landing, CA 95039, USA
| | - J Margaret Castellini
- Institute of Marine Science, School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 757220, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA
| | - Craig A Stricker
- U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Denver Federal Center, Building 21, MS963, Denver, CO 80225, USA
| | - Todd M O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, P.O. Box 755940, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7000, USA
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Dupont A, Siebert U, Covaci A, Weijs L, Eppe G, Debier C, De Pauw-Gillet MC, Das K. Relationships between in vitro lymphoproliferative responses and levels of contaminants in blood of free-ranging adult harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) from the North Sea. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2013; 142-143:210-220. [PMID: 24051082 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2013.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/24/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In vitro culture of peripheral blood leucocytes (PBLs) is currently used in toxicological studies of marine mammals. However, blood cells of wild individuals are exposed in vivo to environmental contaminants before being isolated and exposed to contaminants in vitro. The aim of this study was to highlight potential relationships between blood contaminant levels and in vitro peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation in free-ranging adult harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) from the North Sea. Blood samples of 18 individuals were analyzed for trace elements (Fe, Zn, Se, Cu, Hg, Pb, Cd) and persistent organic contaminants and metabolites (ΣPCBs, ΣHO-PCBs, ΣPBDEs, 2-MeO-BDE68 and 6-MeO-BDE47, ΣDDXs, hexachlorobenzene, oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor, pentachlorophenol and tribromoanisole). The same samples were used to determine the haematology profiles, cell numbers and viability, as well as the in vitro ConA-induced lymphocyte proliferation expressed as a stimulation index (SI). Correlation tests (Bravais-Pearson) and Principal Component Analysis with multiple regression revealed no statistically significant relationship between the lymphocyte SI and the contaminants studied. However, the number of lymphocytes per millilitre of whole blood appeared to be negatively correlated to pentachlorophenol (r=-0.63, p=0.005). In adult harbour seals, the interindividual variations of in vitro lymphocyte proliferation did not appear to be directly linked to pollutant levels present in the blood, and it is likely that other factors such as age, life history, or physiological parameters have an influence. In a general manner, experiments with in vitro immune cell cultures of wild marine mammals should be designed so as to minimize confounding factors in which case they remain a valuable tool to study pollutant effects in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Dupont
- Laboratory of Oceanology - MARE Center, University of Liège, B6c, allée de la chimie 3, B-4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
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Habran S, Pomeroy PP, Debier C, Das K. Changes in trace elements during lactation in a marine top predator, the grey seal. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2013; 126:455-466. [PMID: 23010392 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2012.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Revised: 08/11/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Lactation in pinnipeds represents the most significant cost to mothers during the reproductive cycle. Dynamics of trace elements and their mobilization associated with energy reserves during such an intense physiological process remains poorly understood in marine mammals. The changes in tissue concentrations of 11 elements (Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn) were investigated in a longitudinal study during the lactation period and during the post-weaning fast period. Blood, milk, blubber, and hair samples were collected sequentially from 21 mother-pup pairs of grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) from the Isle of May in Scotland. Maternal transfer through the milk was observed for all trace elements, except for Cd. As an indicator of the placental transfer, levels in pup lanugo (natal coat) revealed also the existence of maternal transfer and accumulation of all assayed trace elements during the foetal development. The placental and mammary barriers against non-essential metal transfer to offspring appear to be absent or weak in grey seals. Examining the contamination levels showed that this grey seal population seems more highly exposed to Pb than other phocid populations (2.2 mg/kg dw of grey seal hair). In contrast, blood and hair levels reflected a lower Hg exposure in grey seals from the Isle of May than in harbour seals from the southeastern North Sea. This study also showed that trace element concentrations in blood and blubber could change rapidly over the lactation period. Such physiological processes must be considered carefully during biomonitoring of trace elements, and potential impacts that rapid fluctuations in concentrations can exert on seal health should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Habran
- Laboratory of Oceanology - MARE, University of Liege, Belgium.
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Habran S, Crocker DE, Debier C, Das K. How are trace elements mobilized during the postweaning fast in Northern elephant seals? ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2012; 31:2354-2365. [PMID: 22833380 DOI: 10.1002/etc.1960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Revised: 05/23/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris) pups undergo a substantial intertissue reorganization of protein, minerals, and other cellular components during their postweaning development, which might entail the mobilization of associated contaminants. The authors investigated the changes in concentrations of 11 elements (Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn) in a longitudinal study on 22 northern elephant seal pups during the postweaning fast. Slight changes in most element concentrations were observed in blood throughout the fast. Circulating levels of Hg, Se, and Cu appeared less altered during the postweaning fast than measured during suckling. Despite the considerable fat utilization, element concentrations, except Fe, in blubber remained stable throughout the fast, which suggests that elements are mobilized from blubber as efficiently as lipids. As indicators of the placental transfer, concentrations in lanugo hair revealed the existence of maternal transfer and accumulation of all assayed trace elements during fetal development. In addition, the new pelage, rapidly produced after weaning, appeared to be an important elimination route for toxic metals such as Hg, Cd, and Pb. The high mineral content detected in pup hair suggests that this species would be more exposed to trace elements than other phocids (except Cd and Pb). Nevertheless, this statement needs further monitoring and toxicological studies to determine better the exposition to trace elements and its potential impact on the health of the northern elephant seal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Habran
- Laboratory of Oceanology-MARE B6c, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium.
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Lailson-Brito J, Cruz R, Dorneles PR, Andrade L, Azevedo ADF, Fragoso AB, Vidal LG, Costa MB, Bisi TL, Almeida R, Carvalho DP, Bastos WR, Malm O. Mercury-selenium relationships in liver of Guiana dolphin: the possible role of Kupffer cells in the detoxification process by tiemannite formation. PLoS One 2012; 7:e42162. [PMID: 22860072 PMCID: PMC3409158 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0042162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Top marine predators present high mercury concentrations in their tissues as consequence of biomagnification of the most toxic form of this metal, methylmercury (MeHg). The present study concerns mercury accumulation by Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis), highlighting the selenium-mediated methylmercury detoxification process. Liver samples from 19 dolphins incidentally captured within Guanabara Bay (Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil) from 1994 to 2006 were analyzed for total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), total organic mercury (TOrgHg) and selenium (Se). X-ray microanalyses were also performed. The specimens, including from fetuses to 30-year-old dolphins, comprising 8 females and 11 males, presented high THg (0.53–132 µg/g wet wt.) and Se concentrations (0.17–74.8 µg/g wet wt.). Correlations between THg, MeHg, TOrgHg and Se were verified with age (p<0.05), as well as a high and positive correlation was observed between molar concentrations of Hg and Se (p<0.05). Negative correlations were observed between THg and the percentage of MeHg contribution to THg (p<0.05), which represents a consequence of the selenium-mediated methylmercury detoxification process. Accumulation of Se-Hg amorphous crystals in Kupffer Cells was demonstrated through ultra-structural analysis, which shows that Guiana dolphin is capable of carrying out the demethylation process via mercury selenide formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Lailson-Brito
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores Profa Izabel Gurgel, MAQUA, Faculdade de Oceanografia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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