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Smaga CR, Bock SL, Johnson JM, Rainwater T, Singh R, Deem V, Letter A, Brunell A, Parrott BB. The influence of incubation temperature on offspring traits varies across northern and southern populations of the American alligator ( Alligator mississippiensis). Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e10915. [PMID: 38371857 PMCID: PMC10869887 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Maternal provisioning and the developmental environment are fundamental determinants of offspring traits, particularly in oviparous species. However, the extent to which embryonic responses to these factors differ across populations to drive phenotypic variation is not well understood. Here, we examine the contributions of maternal provisioning and incubation temperature to hatchling morphological and metabolic traits across four populations of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), encompassing a large portion of the species' latitudinal range. Our results show that whereas the influence of egg mass is generally consistent across populations, responses to incubation temperature show population-level variation in several traits, including mass, head length, head width, and residual yolk mass. Additionally, the influence of incubation temperature on developmental rate is greater at northern populations, while the allocation of maternal resources toward fat body mass is greater at southern populations. Overall, our results suggest that responses to incubation temperature, relative to maternal provisioning, are a larger source of interpopulation phenotypic variation and may contribute to the local adaptation of populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R. Smaga
- Eugene P. Odum School of EcologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- The University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology LaboratoryAikenSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Samantha L. Bock
- Eugene P. Odum School of EcologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- The University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology LaboratoryAikenSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Josiah M. Johnson
- Eugene P. Odum School of EcologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- The University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology LaboratoryAikenSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Thomas Rainwater
- Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest ScienceClemson UniversityGeorgetownSouth CarolinaUSA
- Tom Yawkey Wildlife CenterGeorgetownSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Randeep Singh
- Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest ScienceClemson UniversityGeorgetownSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Vincent Deem
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Andrew Letter
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Arnold Brunell
- Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Benjamin B. Parrott
- Eugene P. Odum School of EcologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- The University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology LaboratoryAikenSouth CarolinaUSA
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2
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Chen Y, Fan Y, Huang Y, Liao X, Xu W, Zhang T. A comprehensive review of toxicity of coal fly ash and its leachate in the ecosystem. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115905. [PMID: 38171230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115905] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Coal fly ash (CFA), a byproduct of coal combustion, is a hazardous industrial solid waste. Its excessive global production, coupled with improper disposal practices, insufficient utilization and limited awareness of its inherent hazards, poses a significant threat to both ecological environment and human health. Based on the physicochemical properties of CFA and its leachates, we elucidate the forms of CFA and potential pathways for its entry into the human body, as well as the leaching behavior, maximum tolerance and biological half-life of toxic elements present in CFA. Furthermore, we provide an overview of current strategies and methods for mitigating the leaching of these harmful elements from CFA. Moreover, we systemically summarize toxic effect of CFA on organisms across various tiers of complexity, analyze epidemiological findings concerning the human health implications resulting from CFA exposure, and delve into the biotoxicological mechanisms of CFA and its leachates at cellular and molecular levels. This review aims to enhance understanding of the potential toxicity of CFA, thereby promoting increased public awareness regarding the disposal and management of this industrial waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China; Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Yingjie Fan
- Chongqing Research Center for Jialing River Development, Institute of Intelligent Manufacturing and Automotive, Chongqing Technology and Business Institute, Chongqing 401520, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China; Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xiaoling Liao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China; Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Wenfeng Xu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China; Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Tao Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China; Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing 401331, China; Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China; JINSHAN Science & Technology (Group) Co., Ltd., Chongqing 401120, China.
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3
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Silva AE, Speakman RJ, Barnes BF, Coyle DR, Leaphart JC, Abernethy EF, Turner KL, Rhodes OE, Beasley JC, Gandhi KJK. Bioaccumulation of contaminants in Scarabaeidae and Silphidae beetles at sites polluted by coal combustion residuals and radiocesium. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166821. [PMID: 37678529 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166821] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic contamination from coal-fired power plants and nuclear reactors is a pervasive issue impacting ecosystems across the globe. As a result, it is critical that studies continue to assess the accumulation and effects of trace elements and radionuclides in a diversity of biota. In particular, bioindicator species are a powerful tool for risk assessment of chemically contaminated habitats. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and auto-gamma counting, we analyzed trace element and radiocesium contaminant concentrations in Scarabaeidae and Silphidae beetles (Order: Coleoptera), important taxa in decomposition and nutrient cycling, at contaminated and reference sites on the Savannah River Site, South Carolina, U.S. Our results revealed variability in trace element concentrations between Scarabaeidae and Silphidae beetles at uncontaminated and contaminated sites. Compared to Scarabaeidae, Silphidae had higher levels of chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn). Unexpectedly, concentrations of Cr, Cu, and Ni were higher in both taxa at the uncontaminated sites. Scarabaeidae and Silphidae beetles at the coal combustion waste site consistently had high concentrations of arsenic (As), and Scarabaeidae had high concentrations of selenium (Se). Of the 50 beetles analyzed for radiocesium levels, two had elevated radioactivity concentrations, both of which were from a site contaminated with radionuclides. Our results suggest carrion beetles may be particularly sensitive to bioaccumulation of contaminants due to their trophic position and role in decomposition, and thus are useful sentinels of trace element and radionuclide contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansley E Silva
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA
| | - Robert J Speakman
- Center for Applied Isotopes Studies, University of Georgia, 120 River Bend Road, Athens 30602, GA, USA
| | - Brittany F Barnes
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA
| | - David R Coyle
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA; Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, Clemson University, 121 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson 29634, SC, USA
| | - James C Leaphart
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA; Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken 29802, SC, USA
| | - Erin F Abernethy
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken 29802, SC, USA; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, 140 E. Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA
| | - Kelsey L Turner
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA; Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken 29802, SC, USA
| | - Olin E Rhodes
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken 29802, SC, USA; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, 140 E. Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA
| | - James C Beasley
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA; Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken 29802, SC, USA
| | - Kamal J K Gandhi
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E Green Street, Athens 30602, GA, USA.
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4
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Macdonald KJ, Driscoll DA, Macdonald KJ, Hradsky B, Doherty TS. Meta-analysis reveals impacts of disturbance on reptile and amphibian body condition. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2023; 29:4949-4965. [PMID: 37401520 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Ecosystem disturbance is increasing in extent, severity and frequency across the globe. To date, research has largely focussed on the impacts of disturbance on animal population size, extinction risk and species richness. However, individual responses, such as changes in body condition, can act as more sensitive metrics and may provide early warning signs of reduced fitness and population declines. We conducted the first global systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the impacts of ecosystem disturbance on reptile and amphibian body condition. We collated 384 effect sizes representing 137 species from 133 studies. We tested how disturbance type, species traits, biome and taxon moderate the impacts of disturbance on body condition. We found an overall negative effect of disturbance on herpetofauna body condition (Hedges' g = -0.37, 95% CI: -0.57, -0.18). Disturbance type was an influential predictor of body condition response and all disturbance types had a negative mean effect. Drought, invasive species and agriculture had the largest effects. The impact of disturbance varied in strength and direction across biomes, with the largest negative effects found within Mediterranean and temperate biomes. In contrast, taxon, body size, habitat specialisation and conservation status were not influential predictors of disturbance effects. Our findings reveal the widespread effects of disturbance on herpetofauna body condition and highlight the potential role of individual-level response metrics in enhancing wildlife monitoring. The use of individual response metrics alongside population and community metrics would deepen our understanding of disturbance impacts by revealing both early impacts and chronic effects within affected populations. This could enable early and more informed conservation management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina J Macdonald
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Don A Driscoll
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kimberley J Macdonald
- Biodiversity Protection and Information Branch, Biodiversity Division, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Hradsky
- School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim S Doherty
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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5
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Johnson JM, Bock SL, Smaga CR, Lambert MR, Rainwater TR, Wilkinson PM, Parrott BB. Relationships between maternally-transferred mercury and hatchling development, behavior, and survival in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:162010. [PMID: 36739038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162010] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a toxic and pervasive environmental contaminant that can be transferred from mother to offspring during development. Consequences of maternally-transferred mercury have been observed in vertebrate taxa, including reduced clutch viability, reduced offspring size, and behavioral alterations. These sublethal effects have been assumed to decrease survivorship, though this is seldom assessed. Here, we examined how maternally-transferred mercury interacts with incubation temperature to influence reproductive success, offspring behavior, and subsequent survival in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). We collected nine clutches of eggs from a mercury contaminated reservoir on the Savannah River Site, South Carolina, and incubated eggs at either female- or male-promoting temperatures. Clutch-averaged mercury in egg yolk was high relative to other studies in crocodilians and ranged from 0.248 to 0.554 ppm compared to 0.018-0.052 ppm at a site with low levels of mercury contamination; mercury levels in hatchling blood ranged from 0.090 to 0.490 ppm (x¯ = 0.240 ppm, n = 158). We found few, mostly negligible correlations between life history traits and mercury but noted a positive relationship with egg mass, possibly mediated by correlated maternal effects such as resource provisioning. Incubation temperature exerted strong effects on hatchling phenotypes, with warmer, male-promoting temperatures producing larger and bolder hatchlings. Presumptive females, produced from cooler incubation temperatures, spent more time in warm areas during behavior trials. Hatchlings were released 10-15 days post-hatch and surveyed over eight months to assess survival. Survivorship was positively correlated with hatchling size and negatively correlated with proportional time spent in warm areas. Presumptive females had much lower survival, and overall survivorship for the eight-month period was 0.185-0.208, depending on the modelling approach. Our study suggests that, within the range of concentrations we observed, incubation temperature has a stronger effect on offspring behavior and survival than maternally-transferred mercury pollution in American alligators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiah M Johnson
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States.
| | - Samantha L Bock
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Christopher R Smaga
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Max R Lambert
- Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Thomas R Rainwater
- Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science, Clemson University, Georgetown, SC 29442, United States; Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center, Georgetown, SC 29440, United States
| | | | - Benjamin B Parrott
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
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6
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Frankel TE, Crowell C, Giancarlo L, Hydorn D, Odhiambo BK. Investigating the potential impacts of coal ash runoff on the freshwater Seminole ramshorn snail (Planorbella duryi) under laboratory conditions. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 310:136815. [PMID: 36241101 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Coal fly ash is an industrial waste product generated by coal fired powerplants which has been shown to contain elevated concentrations of several toxic trace metals. When stored in landfills or other repositories, these trace metals can enter nearby surface waters via a number of routes including leaching or runoff. Our study examined 1) the presence and concentration of eleven trace elements in a range of lab-created coal ash leachate solutions at neutral pH using ICP-OES, 2) the physiological effects of these leachate solutions on a freshwater gastropod (Planorbella duryi), and 3) the ability of these trace metals to bioaccumulate in the tissues of exposed individuals. As, Cd, Cu, Mg, Mn, and Pb were detected in solutions at increasing concentrations concurrent with ash concentration. Exposure to leachates caused significant delays in embryonic development, reduced juvenile shell growth, decreases in egg and clutch production, and the display of avoidance behaviors. Tissues of exposed snails contained elevated concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, and Cr, with bioconcentration factors 177,550 times higher in cadmium and 85,468 times higher in arsenic in the highest treatment compared to control organisms. Our results highlight the potential harmful effects of coal ash leachates on a novel freshwater invertebrate species using several unique methodologies, providing key information regarding their potential impacts on surrounding aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- T E Frankel
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA, USA, 22401.
| | - C Crowell
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA, USA, 22401
| | - L Giancarlo
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA, USA, 22401
| | - D Hydorn
- Department of Mathematics, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA, USA, 22401
| | - B K Odhiambo
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA, USA, 22401
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Moore LA, Finger JW, Haskins DL, Elsey RM, Castleberry SB, Glenn TC, Jagoe CH, Brisbin IL. Tissue Distribution of Mercury in the Bodies of Wild American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) from a Coastal Marsh in Louisiana (USA). ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2022; 83:13-20. [PMID: 35699748 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-022-00938-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury (THg) concentrations were measured in wild alligators inhabiting a coastal marsh in southern Louisiana, to determine the tissue distribution of THg among various body organs and tissue compartments. Concentrations of THg in claws and dermal tail scutes were compared to those in blood, brain, gonad, heart, kidney, liver, and skeletal muscle to determine if the former tissues, commonly available by non-lethal sampling, could be used as measures of body burdens in various internal organs. Mercury was found in all body organs and tissue compartments. However, overall, THg concentrations measured in alligators were below the FDA action level for fish consumption and were comparable to previous data reported from southwestern Louisiana. Our results suggest consumption of meat from alligators found in this region may be of little public health concern. However, the extended period of time between sampling (in this study) and the present-day highlight the need for continuous, additional, and more recent sampling to ensure consumer safety. Total mercury concentrations were highest in the kidney (3.18 ± 0.69 mg/kg dw) and liver (3.12 ± 0.76 mg/kg dw). THg levels in non-lethal samples (blood, claws, and dermal tail scutes) were positively correlated with all tissue THg concentrations (blood: R2 = 0.513-0.988; claw: R2 = 0.347-0.637, scutes: R2 = 0.333-0.649). Because THg concentrations from blood, claws, and scutes were correlated with those of the internal organs, non-lethal sampling methods may be a viable method of estimating levels of THg in other body tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liberty A Moore
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29801, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - John W Finger
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
| | - David L Haskins
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Ruth M Elsey
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, Grand Chenier, LA, 70643, USA
| | - Steven B Castleberry
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Travis C Glenn
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29801, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Charles H Jagoe
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29801, USA
- School of the Environment, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA
| | - I Lehr Brisbin
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29801, USA
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Dos Santos RL, de Sousa Correia JM, Dos Santos EM. Freshwater aquatic reptiles (Testudines and Crocodylia) as biomonitor models in assessing environmental contamination by inorganic elements and the main analytical techniques used: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2021; 193:498. [PMID: 34287720 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-09212-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite the general lack of studies that use reptiles as bioindicators, the value of freshwater turtles and crocodilians in ecotoxicology has been proven, due to their importance as sentinel species. The aim of this study was to compile information on the use of freshwater turtles and crocodilians as environmental biomonitors of inorganic element contamination. We searched for articles in databases using specific keywords. A total of 104 studies published between the years 1970 and 2020 were collected. We noted a general increase in the number of studies involving turtles and crocodilians during the study time period. The Order Testudines were the subjects of 46% of the analysed publications, and the Order Crocodylia accounted for 54%. Within these studies, we counted 39 species (turtles n = 29 and crocodilians n = 10). Forty chemical elements were evaluated in the analysed articles, of which the majority represented non-essential elements (Hg, Cd, Pb). Although internal organs constituted the main biological matrix chosen for each group (37%), we observed an increase in the use of non-destructive matrices in both groups (scale, blood, tail muscle, carapace). The majority of analysed studies used HNO3 for the sample decomposition, with the majority of analyses being performed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (53%). Mainly blank controls (19%), analyte recovery (18%) and replicates (18%) were used as methods of validating analytical procedures. Furthermore, the studies used certified reference materials, which measure the accuracy of the methods used. We conclude that the increase in the use of aquatic reptiles in environmental monitoring research is mainly due to their ability to reveal integrated changes in ecosystems, aiding in environmental public policy decision-making and effective management plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayssa Lima Dos Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação, Av. Gregório Ferraz Nogueira, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Serra Talhada, PE, Brazil.
| | | | - Ednilza Maranhão Dos Santos
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Manoel de Medeiros, Recife, PE, Brazil
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9
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Finger JW, Kelley MD, Zhang Y, Hamilton MT, Elsey RM, Mendonca MT, Kavazis AN. Antioxidant Enzymes in Destructible and Non-Destructible Tissues in American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis). SOUTH AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HERPETOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.2994/sajh-d-19-00118.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John W. Finger
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Meghan D. Kelley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Yufeng Zhang
- School of Health Studies, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Matthew T. Hamilton
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Ruth M. Elsey
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, Grand Chenier, LA 70643, USA
| | - Mary T. Mendonca
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
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10
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Tirado-Ballestas I, Caballero-Gallardo K, Olivero-Verbel J. Toxicological effects of bituminous coal dust on the earthworm Eisenia fetida (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae). ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 29:1422-1430. [PMID: 32797392 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-020-02263-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The exploitation of coal is an important resource to generate energy worldwide. However, during the processes of coal extraction, transport, and cargo, dust particles are released into the environment. The aim of this study was to determine the toxicological effects of bituminous coal dust (<38 µm), obtained from a sample collected in a coal mine in Colombia, on the annelid Eisenia fetida. The earthworm culture was standardized under laboratory conditions to evaluate mortality, as well as morphological, physiological and histological changes using concentrations varying from 1 to 4% w/w coal dust in artificial soil, after 7, 14, and 28 days of exposure. In addition, an avoidance assay was carried out after 48-h treatment. Histopathological analysis was performed at the end of the experiment. After the sub-chronic exposure, an increase in mortality was observed at the highest coal dust concentration compared to the untreated group. Alterations in morphology and physiology of the exposed annelids were mostly evidenced at the greatest tested concentrations (3-4%) and exposure times (≥14 days). Changes included loss of weight and color, abundant mucus production, constriction, peeling of the epidermis, clitellum involution, violent movements and lethargy. Avoidance of coal dust-polluted soil followed a concentration-response relationship. Histopathological findings revealed changes on the cuticle, as well as in the circular and longitudinal muscle layers in animals living in soils containing 3 and 4% coal particles. In short, E. fetida exposed to coal dust experienced several pathological changes, suggesting that this pollutant may induce population problems in macroinvertebrates present in coal mining areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Tirado-Ballestas
- Environmental and Computational Chemistry Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zaragocilla Campus, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, 130015, Colombia
| | - K Caballero-Gallardo
- Environmental and Computational Chemistry Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zaragocilla Campus, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, 130015, Colombia
| | - J Olivero-Verbel
- Environmental and Computational Chemistry Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zaragocilla Campus, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, 130015, Colombia.
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11
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Wang N, Sun X, Zhao Q, Yang Y, Wang P. Leachability and adverse effects of coal fly ash: A review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 396:122725. [PMID: 32353729 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.122725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Coal fly ash (CFA) is a valuable industrial solid waste, but conventional methods used for its disposal can lead to serious and long-lasting environmental issues. The study of technologies for CFA recycling has been of major concern, while the harm caused by CFA is only partially understood, limiting its reuse. In this review, the basic physico-chemical properties of CFA are introduced, followed by a systematic summary and discussion of the leachability of CFA via different leaching methods and the chemical speciation of some typical metal elements in CFA, which is related to its harmful effects. The specific harm that CFA causes to humans, wild animals, and plants and the study status of magnetic property of CFA are presented. Because of the pervasive concerns of many people, the utilisation of CFA in the USA and Europe and an economic and environmental analysis of its disposal is provided and discussed. Finally, some possible directions for future research involving CFA are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Wang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing, 102617, PR China.
| | - Xiyu Sun
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- Beijing BHT Environment Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing, 100102, PR China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Beijing Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Beijing, 102617, PR China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China.
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12
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Kieran TJ, Goodman SJ, Finger JW, Thomas JC, Hamilton MT, Tuberville TD, Glenn TC. Microbiota of Four Tissue Types in American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) Following Extended Dietary Selenomethionine Exposure. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2020; 105:381-386. [PMID: 32794125 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-020-02961-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Selenium represents an essential trace nutrient that is necessary for biological functions. Deficiencies can induce disease, but excess can induce toxicity. Selenium deficiency is a major concern in underdeveloped countries, while also posing as a toxic pollutant in waterways surrounding landfills, agricultural areas, and fossil fuel production sites. We examined the microbiome of selenomethionine (SeMet) fed American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) at the beginning and end of a 7-week exposure experiment. Alligators were randomly divided into three groups: control and 1000 or 2000 ppm SeMet. DNA from before exposure (oral and cloaca swabs) and post-exposure (oral, cloaca, small & large intestines) sampling were extracted and amplified for bacterial 16 s rRNA. While treatment did not seem to have much effect, we observed a predominance of Fusobacteriaceae and Porpyromonodaceae across all tissue types. Cetobacterium and Clostridium are the most abundant genera as potential indicators of the aquatic and carrion feeding lifestyle of alligators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Troy J Kieran
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Samantha J Goodman
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, 30602, Athens, GA, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Toxicology Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - John W Finger
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, 29802, Aiken, SC, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Jesse C Thomas
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, 29802, Aiken, SC, USA
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, 29802, Aiken, SC, USA
| | - Travis C Glenn
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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13
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Quintela FM, Pino SR, Silva FC, Loebmann D, Costa PG, Bianchini A, Martins SE. Arsenic, lead and cadmium concentrations in caudal crests of the yacare caiman (Caiman yacare) from Brazilian Pantanal. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 707:135479. [PMID: 31761358 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Wetlands are environments of extreme importance due to their high biodiversity and invaluable ecosystem services. Nevertheless, wetlands worldwide are under the increasing threat of the effects of contaminants, which put at risk the biota and the ecosystems. Herein the concentrations of non-essential and toxic elements arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in caudal crests of the yacare caiman (Caiman yacare) from the Brazilian Pantanal, one of the largest wetlands in the world, were investigated aiming to compare concentrations in individuals from a large pristine area (Southern Pantanal) to animals from an area close to potential sources of anthropogenic emissions (Northern Pantanal). Levels above the limit of detection were found for all the elements in the majority of the analysed samples. The highest mean concentration was detected for As in samples from both sites, followed by Pb and Cd in samples from Southern Pantanal, and Cd and Pb in samples from Northern Pantanal. Significant negative correlations were found between As and Cd concentrations and the size of the individuals from the Southern Pantanal. Surprisingly, concentrations of all three elements were higher in pristine Southern Pantanal, but with significant differences only for Cd. This result suggests that natural sources and processes may be acting for the mobilisation and availability of As, Pb and Cd for Southern Pantanal biota, which reflected in the contamination of C. yacare. Data from the literature showed higher levels of As, Pb and Cd in abiotic compartments in Southern Pantanal and adjacent plateaus in comparison to Northern Pantanal, corroborating the higher concentrations detected in biotic samples from the south. Thus, natural sources seem to play a relevant role in the contamination of biota by As, Pb and Cd in Southern Pantanal, characterising an intriguing pattern that could be tested for other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Marques Quintela
- Laboratório de Vertebrados, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia de Ambientes Aquáticos Continentais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Saulo Rodrigues Pino
- Laboratório de Vertebrados, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Toxicologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Felipe Caseiro Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia de Ambientes Aquáticos Continentais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniel Loebmann
- Laboratório de Vertebrados, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia de Ambientes Aquáticos Continentais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Gomes Costa
- Laboratório de Determinações II, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Adalto Bianchini
- Laboratório de Determinações II, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Samantha Eslava Martins
- Laboratório de Toxicologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia de Ambientes Aquáticos Continentais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, 96203-900 Rio Grande, RS, Brazil.
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14
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Somaweera R, Nifong J, Rosenblatt A, Brien ML, Combrink X, Elsey RM, Grigg G, Magnusson WE, Mazzotti FJ, Pearcy A, Platt SG, Shirley MH, Tellez M, Ploeg J, Webb G, Whitaker R, Webber BL. The ecological importance of crocodylians: towards evidence‐based justification for their conservation. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:936-959. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ruchira Somaweera
- CSIRO Health and Biosecurity Floreat WA 6014 Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia Crawley WA 6009 Australia
| | - James Nifong
- IFAS‐Fort Lauderdale Research & Education Center, University of Florida Fort Lauderdale FL 33314 USA
| | - Adam Rosenblatt
- University of North Florida 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville FL 32224 USA
| | - Mathew L. Brien
- Queensland Parks and WildlifeDepartment of Environment and Science Cairns QLD 4870 Australia
| | - Xander Combrink
- Department of Nature ConservationTshwane University of Technology Pretoria South Africa
| | - Ruth M. Elsey
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge Grand Chenier LA 70643 USA
| | - Gordon Grigg
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - William E. Magnusson
- Coordenação da Biodiversidade, Instituto Nacional da Pesquisas da Amazônia Manaus 69067 Brazil
| | - Frank J. Mazzotti
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and ConservationEverglades Research and Education Center, University of Florida Gainesville FL 32603 USA
| | - Ashley Pearcy
- Section for Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity, Department of BioScienceAarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Steven G. Platt
- Wildlife Conservation Society ‐ Myanmar Program Yangon Myanmar
| | - Matthew H. Shirley
- Tropical Conservation InstituteFlorida International University Miami FL 33181 USA
| | | | - Jan Ploeg
- Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Grahame Webb
- Wildlife Management International Karama NT 0812 Australia
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University Casuarina NT 0810 Australia
| | - Rom Whitaker
- The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust & Centre for Herpetology Mahabalipuram 603104 India
| | - Bruce L. Webber
- CSIRO Health and Biosecurity Floreat WA 6014 Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia Crawley WA 6009 Australia
- Western Australian Biodiversity Science Institute Perth WA 6000 Australia
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15
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Finger JW, Hamilton MT, Kelley MD, Stacy NI, Glenn TC, Tuberville TD. Examining the Effects of Chronic Selenium Exposure on Traditionally Used Stress Parameters in Juvenile American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis). ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2019; 77:14-21. [PMID: 30976886 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-019-00626-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants, such as the trace element selenium (Se), are a continuing concern to species worldwide due to their potential pathophysiological effects, including their influence on the stress response mediated through glucocorticoids (GCs; stress hormones). Environmental concentrations of Se are increasing due to anthropogenic activities, including the incomplete combustion of coal and subsequent disposal of coal combustion wastes. However, most studies examining how Se affects GCs have been focused on lower trophic organisms. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of long-term Se exposure on traditionally used stress parameters and to identify which of these parameters best indicate Se accumulation in liver and kidney of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), a top trophic carnivore found in the southeastern United States and known to inhabit Se-containing areas. Alligators were divided into three dietary treatments and fed prey spiked with 1000 or 2000 ppm of selenomethionine (SeMet) or deionized water (control treatment) for 7 weeks. Following the 7-week treatment protocol, blood and tissue samples were obtained to measure plasma corticosterone (CORT; the main crocodilian GC), tail scute CORT, the ratio of peripheral blood heterophils (H) to lymphocytes (L) as H/L ratio, and body condition. To evaluate which parameter best indicated Se accumulation in the liver and kidney, principal component and discriminant analyses were performed. The only parameter significantly correlated with liver and kidney Se concentrations was scute CORT. Our results suggest that measurement of CORT in tail scutes compared with plasma CORT, H/L ratios, and body condition is the best indicator of Se-exposure and accumulation in crocodilians.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Finger
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Meghan D Kelley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Travis C Glenn
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
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16
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Cochran JP, Haskins DL, Eady NA, Hamilton MT, Pilgrim MA, Tuberville TD. Coal combustion residues and their effects on trace element accumulation and health indices of eastern mud turtles (Kinosternon subrubrum). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 243:346-353. [PMID: 30196204 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Coal combustion is a major energy source in the US. The solid waste product of coal combustion, coal combustion residue (CCR), contains potentially toxic trace elements. Before 1980, the US primarily disposed of CCR in aquatic settling basins. Animals use these basins as habitat and can be exposed to CCR, potentially affecting their physiology. To investigate the effects of CCR on eastern mud turtles (Kinosternon subrubrum), we sampled 30 turtles exposed to CCRs and 17 unexposed turtles captured in 2015-2016 from the Savannah River Site (Aiken, SC, USA). For captured turtles, we (1) quantified accumulation of CCR in claw and blood samples, (2) used bacterial killing assays to assess influences of CCR on immune responses, (3) compared hemogregarine parasite loads, and (4) compared metabolic rates via flow-through respirometry between CCR-exposed and unexposed turtles when increased temperature was introduced as an added stressor. Turtles exposed to CCR accumulated CCR-associated trace elements, corroborating previous studies. Blood Se and Sr levels and claw As, Se, and Sr levels were significantly higher in turtles from contaminated sites. Average bacterial killing efficiency was not significantly different between groups. Neither prevalence nor average parasite load significantly differed between CCR-exposed and reference turtles, although parasite load increased with turtle size. Regardless of site, temperature had a significant impact on turtle metabolic rates; as temperature increased, turtle metabolic rates increased. The effect of temperature on turtle metabolic rates was less pronounced for CCR-exposed turtles, which resulted in CCR-exposed turtles having lower metabolic rates than reference turtles at 30 and 35 °C. Our results demonstrate that turtles accumulate CCR from their environment and that accumulation of CCR is associated with changes in turtle physiological functions when additional stressors are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarad P Cochran
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA; Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of South Carolina Upstate, Spartanburg, SC, 29303, USA; Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - David L Haskins
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA; Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Naya A Eady
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA; College of Arts and Sciences, Trinity Washington University, Washington D.C, 20017, USA
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Melissa A Pilgrim
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA; Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of South Carolina Upstate, Spartanburg, SC, 29303, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
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17
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Finger JW, Hamilton MT, Kelley MD, Zhang Y, Kavazis AN, Glenn TC, Tuberville TD. Dietary Selenomethionine Administration and Its Effects on the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis): Oxidative Status and Corticosterone Levels. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2018; 75:37-44. [PMID: 29737374 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-018-0530-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential nutrient which in excess causes toxicity. The disposal of incompletely combusted coal, which often is rich in Se, into aquatic settling basins is increasing the risk of Se exposure worldwide. However, very few studies have looked at the physiological effects of Se exposure on long-lived, top trophic vertebrates, such as the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). During a 7-week period, alligators were fed one of three dietary treatments: mice injected with deionized water or mice injected with water containing 1000 or 2000 ppm selenomethionine (SeMet). One week after the last feeding alligators were bled within 3 min of capture for plasma corticosterone (CORT). A few days later, all alligators were euthanized and whole blood and tail tissue were harvested to measure oxidative damage, an antioxidant-associated transcription factor, and antioxidant enzymes [glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX1), superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1), and SOD2] by Western blotting. There was a dose-dependent increase in baseline CORT levels in alligators administered SeMet. Except for blood SOD2 levels, SeMet treatment had no effect (p > 0.05 for all) on oxidative status: oxidative damage, GPX1, SOD1, and muscle SOD2 levels were similar among treatments. Our results illustrate that high levels of Se may act as a stressor to crocodilians. Future studies should investigate further the physiological effects of Se accumulation in long-lived, top-trophic vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Finger
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Meghan D Kelley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Yufeng Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | | | - Travis C Glenn
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
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18
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Haskins DL, Hamilton MT, Stacy NI, Finger JW, Tuberville TD. Effects of selenium exposure on the hematology, innate immunity, and metabolic rate of yellow-bellied sliders (Trachemys scripta scripta). ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2017; 26:1134-1146. [PMID: 28780652 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-017-1839-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is a naturally occurring essential element that can be toxic to vertebrates at high concentrations. Despite studies that have documented that wild reptile species can accumulate copious amounts of Se, little is known regarding specific toxicologic effects of Se. In this study, 70 juvenile yellow-bellied sliders (Trachemys scripta scripta) were exposed to one of three seleno-L-methionine (SetMet) treatments (control, n = 24; 15 mg/kg, n = 23; and 30 mg/kg, n = 23) via weekly oral gavage for 5 weeks. At the conclusion of the experiment, kidney, liver, muscle, and blood samples were collected for quantitative Se analysis. Turtles in the SeMet treatment groups accumulated significantly higher amounts of Se in all tissue types relative to controls (all p < 0.001). Turtles in the 30 mg/kg SeMet group also accumulated significantly higher amounts of Se compared to the 15 mg/kg group (all p < 0.001). Although toxicity thresholds for reptiles have not been established, Se concentrations in liver tissue from both SeMet treatment groups exceeded reported avian toxicity thresholds for liver tissue. Neither oxygen consumption nor innate bactericidal capacity were impacted by SeMet exposure. However, turtles in the 30 mg/kg SeMet group exhibited anemia, which has been reported in other vertebrates exposed to Se. Furthermore, juvenile T. s. scripta in the 30 mg/kg SeMet group experienced 17% mortality compared to 0% in the 15 mg/kg treatment and control groups. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report dose-dependent Se-associated anemia and mortality in a chelonian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Haskins
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - John W Finger
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
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19
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Nilsen FM, Kassim BL, Delaney JP, Lange TR, Brunell AM, Guillette LJ, Long SE, Schock TB. Trace element biodistribution in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 181:343-351. [PMID: 28456036 PMCID: PMC11314667 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.04.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 04/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Routine monitoring of contaminant levels in wildlife is important for understanding chemical exposure and ultimately the link to ecosystem and human health. This is particularly important when the monitored species is recreationally hunted for human consumption. In the southeastern United States, recreational alligator harvesting takes place annually and in locations that are known to be contaminated with environmental pollutants. In this study, we investigated the biodistribution of trace elements in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) from five sites in Florida, USA. These sites are locations where annual recreational alligator harvesting is permitted and two of the sites are identified as having high mercury contamination with human consumption advisories in effect. We utilized routinely collected monitoring samples (blood and scute), a commonly consumed tissue (muscle), and a classically analyzed tissue for environmental contaminants (liver) to demonstrate how the trace elements were distributed within the American alligator. We describe elemental tissue compartmentalization in an apex predator and investigate if noninvasive samples (blood and scute) can be used to estimate muscle tissue concentrations for a subset of elements measured. We found significant correlations for Hg, Rb, Se, Zn and Pb between noninvasive samples and consumed tissue and also found that Hg was the only trace metal of concern for this population of alligators. This study fills a gap in trace elemental analysis for reptilian apex predators in contaminated environments. Additionally, comprehensive elemental analysis of routinely collected samples can inform biomonitoring efforts and consumption advisories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M Nilsen
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC 29425-6190, USA.
| | - Brittany L Kassim
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA.
| | - J Patrick Delaney
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 601 W. Woodward Ave, Eustis, FL 32726, USA.
| | - Ted R Lange
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 601 W. Woodward Ave, Eustis, FL 32726, USA.
| | - Arnold M Brunell
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 601 W. Woodward Ave, Eustis, FL 32726, USA.
| | - Louis J Guillette
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC 29425-6190, USA
| | - Stephen E Long
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA.
| | - Tracey B Schock
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA.
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20
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Finger JW, Hamilton MT, Glenn TC, Tuberville TD. Dietary Selenomethionine Administration in the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis): Hepatic and Renal Se Accumulation and Its Effects on Growth and Body Condition. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 72:439-448. [PMID: 28150020 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-017-0370-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential trace nutrient, but in excess, it can induce toxicity. Incomplete combustion of coal produces coal combustion wastes, which are enriched in Se and often disposed of in aquatic basins. While a multitude of studies have investigated Se accumulation in vertebrates, few studies have examined its effects on longer-lived top trophic carnivores, such as the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). In this study, alligators were fed one of three Dietary Treatments: mice injected with water (controls) or water supplemented with 1000 or 2000 ppm selenomethionine (SeMet). Dietary Treatment significantly affected Se levels in both the liver (p < 0.0001; raw mean ± SE: 1000 ppm group, 35.20 ± 6.32 ppm; 2000 ppm group, 49.97 ± 4.00 ppm) and kidney (p < 0.0001; raw mean ± SE: 1000 ppm group, 101.60 ± 8.64 ppm; 2000 ppm, 96.38 ± 5.81 ppm), which were significantly higher in alligators fed SeMet than in controls. Post-treatment head length, used to control for size variation, was negatively related to both kidney (p = 0.0142) and liver (p = 0.0010) Se concentrations. Dietary treatment with SeMet significantly reduced body condition (1000 ppm, p < 0.0029; 2000 ppm, p = 0.0075), but it significantly increased growth (1000 ppm, p < 0.0001; 2000 ppm, p = 0.0316). Body condition and growth remained unchanged in control alligators (p > 0.05). Our results demonstrate alligators are capable of accumulating high levels of Se through trophic transfer. The positive effects of accumulation on growth may demonstrate Se essentiality, whereas the negative effects on condition may demonstrate toxicity. Accumulation also was associated with mortality, further demonstrating toxicity. Future studies should further investigate the physiological effects of Se accumulation in long-lived, top-trophic carnivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Finger
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Travis C Glenn
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, PO Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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Yang Z, Yan C, Liu G, Niu Y, Zhang W, Lu S, Li X, Zhang H, Ning G, Fan J, Qin L, Su Q. Plasma selenium levels and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in Chinese adults: a cross-sectional analysis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37288. [PMID: 27853246 PMCID: PMC5112507 DOI: 10.1038/srep37288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Selenium exposure can induce liver insulin resistance and increased liver triglyceride concentrations in animals, which may link to an increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, epidemiological studies investigating the association between elevated plasma selenium levels and NAFLD were not available. We aimed to investigate the association of selenium levels with the prevalence of NAFLD in Chinese adults. This was a cross-sectional study of 8550 Chinese adults aged 40 yr or older in Shanghai, China. A questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory tests were conducted. NAFLD was diagnosed by hepatic ultrasound after the exclusion of alcohol abuse and other liver diseases. Plasma selenium concentration was assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. The median concentration of plasma selenium was 213.0 μg/L. Elevated plasma selenium levels were associated with higher triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, fasting plasma glucose, post-loading plasma glucose, A1c, HOMA-IR, as well as ALT, AST and γ-GT (all P < 0.05). The odds ratios were substantially higher for NAFLD (OR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.13–2.18) in the highest selenium quartile compared with those in the lowest quartile, after adjustment for potential cofounder. The results of this study provided epidemiological evidence that increased plasma selenium level is associated with elevated prevalence of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chonghuai Yan
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yixin Niu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuai Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital Chongming Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyong Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang Ning
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of Ministry of Health, RuiJin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, E-Institute of Shanghai Universities, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangao Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Digestion and Nutrition, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Qin
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital Chongming Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Su
- Department of Endocrinology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Finger JW, Hamilton MT, Metts BS, Glenn TC, Tuberville TD. Chronic Ingestion of Coal Fly-Ash Contaminated Prey and Its Effects on Health and Immune Parameters in Juvenile American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis). ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 71:347-358. [PMID: 27475646 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-016-0301-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Coal-burning power plants supply approximately 37 % of the electricity in the United States. However, incomplete combustion produces ash wastes enriched with toxic trace elements that have historically been disposed of in aquatic basins. Organisms inhabiting such habitats may accumulate these trace elements; however, studies investigating the effects on biota have been primarily restricted to shorter-lived, lower-trophic organisms. The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), a long-lived, top-trophic carnivore, has been observed inhabiting these basins, yet the health or immune effects of chronic exposure and possible accumulation remains unknown. In this study, we investigated how chronic dietary ingestion of prey contaminated with coal combustion wastes (CCWs) for 25 months, and subsequent accumulation of trace elements present in CCWs, affected juvenile alligator immune function and health. Alligators were assigned to one of four dietary-treatment groups including controls and those fed prey contaminated with CCWs for one, two, or three times a week. However, no effect of Dietary Treatment (p > 0.05) was observed on any immune parameter or hematological or plasma analyte we tested. Our results suggest that neither exposure to nor accumulation of low doses of CCWs had a negative effect on certain aspects of the immune and hematological system. However, future studies are required to elucidate this further.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Finger
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
| | - Matthew T Hamilton
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Brian S Metts
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
- Grovetown Middle School, Grovetown, GA, 30813, USA
| | - Travis C Glenn
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Tracey D Tuberville
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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