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Casas G, Iriarte J, D'Agostino LA, Roscales JL, Martinez-Varela A, Vila-Costa M, Martin JW, Jiménez B, Dachs J. Inputs, amplification and sinks of perfluoroalkyl substances at coastal Antarctica. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 338:122608. [PMID: 37742857 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122608] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The sources, biogeochemical controls and sinks of perfluoroalkyl substances, such as perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), in polar coastal regions are largely unknown. These were evaluated by measuring a large multi-compartment dataset of PFAAs concentrations at coastal Livingston and Deception Islands (maritime Antarctica) during three austral summers. PFAAs were abundant in atmospheric-derived samples (aerosols, rain, snow), consistent with the importance of atmospheric deposition as an input of PFAAs to Antarctica. Such PFAAs deposition was unequivocally demonstrated by the occurrence of PFAAs in small Antarctic lakes. Several lines of evidence supported the relevant amplification of PFAAs concentrations in surface waters driven by snow scavenging of sea-spray aerosol-bound PFAAs followed by snow-melting. For example, vertical profiles showed higher PFAAs concentrations at lower-salinity surface seawaters, and PFAAs concentrations in snow were significantly higher than in seawater. The higher levels of PFAAs at Deception Island than at Livingston Island are consistent with the semi-enclosed nature of the bay. Concentrations of PFOS decreased from 2014 to 2018, consistent with observations in other oceans. The sink of PFAAs due to the biological pump, transfer to the food web, and losses due to sea-spray aerosols alone are unlikely to have driven the decrease in PFOS concentrations. An exploratory assessment of the potential sinks of PFAAs suggests that microbial degradation of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates should be a research priority for the evaluation of PFAAs persistence in the coming decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Casas
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, Spanish National Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Spanish National Research Council (IQOG-CSIC), Madrid, Spain; BETA Tech Center, University of Vic, Catalonia, Vic, Spain
| | - Jon Iriarte
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, Spanish National Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lisa A D'Agostino
- Department of Environmental Science (ACES, Exposure & Effects), Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm University, Stockholm, 106 91, Sweden
| | - Jose L Roscales
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Spanish National Research Council (IQOG-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia Martinez-Varela
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, Spanish National Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Vila-Costa
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, Spanish National Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jonathan W Martin
- Department of Environmental Science (ACES, Exposure & Effects), Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm University, Stockholm, 106 91, Sweden
| | - Begoña Jiménez
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Spanish National Research Council (IQOG-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Dachs
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, Spanish National Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain.
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Zhang Y, Zhang B, Ahmed I, Zhang H, He Y. Profiles and natural drivers of antibiotic resistome in multiple environmental media in penguin-colonized area in Antarctica. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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Biological and geochemical proxies in sediment cores reveal shifts in marine predator population dynamics relative to historic anthropogenic exploitation and recent climate change at South Georgia Island sub-Antarctic. Polar Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-022-03067-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Grant ML, Bond AL, Lavers JL. The influence of seabirds on their breeding, roosting, and nesting grounds: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Anim Ecol 2022; 91:1266-1289. [PMID: 35395097 PMCID: PMC9324971 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Seabird species worldwide are integral to both marine and terrestrial environments, connecting the two systems by transporting vast quantities of marine-derived nutrients and pollutants to terrestrial breeding, roosting, and nesting grounds via the deposition of guano and other allochthonous inputs (e.g., eggs, feathers). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis and provide insight into what types of nutrients and pollutants seabirds are transporting, the influence these subsidies are having on recipient environments, with a particular focus on soil, and what may happen if seabird populations decline. The addition of guano to colony soils increased nutrient levels compared to control soils for all seabirds studied, with cascading positive effects observed across a range of habitats. Deposited guano sometimes led to negative impacts, such a guanotrophication, or guano-induced eutrophication, which was often observed where there was an excess of guano or in areas with high seabird densities. While the literature describing nutrients transported by seabirds is extensive, literature regarding pollutant transfer is comparatively limited, with a focus on toxic and bioaccumulative metals. Research on persistent organic pollutants and plastics transported by seabirds is likely to increase in coming years. Studies were limited geographically, with hotspots of research activity in a few locations, but data were lacking from large regions around the world. Studies were also limited to seabird species listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. As seabird populations are impacted by multiple threats and steep declines have been observed for many species worldwide, gaps in the literature are particularly concerning. The loss of seabirds will impact nutrient cycling at localised levels and potentially on a global scale as well, yet it is unknown what may truly happen to areas that rely on seabirds if these populations disappear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan L Grant
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, School Road, Newnham, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Alexander L Bond
- Bird Group, Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.,Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania, Australia
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Ye W, Zhu R, Yuan L, Zhang W, Zang H, Jiao Y, Yin X. The influence of sea animals on selenium distribution in tundra soils and lake sediments in maritime Antarctica. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:132748. [PMID: 34736939 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132748] [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: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The biogeochemical behavior of selenium (Se) has been extensively studied in Se-enriched or Se contaminated soils at low and middle latitudes. However, the Se distribution patterns have not been studied in tundra ecosystems of remote Antarctica. Here, the soils/sediments were collected from penguin and seal colonies, their adjacent tundra and lakes, tundra marsh, human-activity areas, normal tundra and the periglacial in maritime Antarctica, and total Se and seven operationally defined Se fractions were analyzed. Overall the regional distribution of Se levels showed high spatial heterogeneity (coefficient of variation, CV = 114%) in tundra soils, with the highest levels in penguin (mean 6.12 ± 2.66 μg g-1) and seal (mean 2.29 ± 1.43 μg g-1) colony soils, and the lowest in normal tundra soils and periglacial sediments (<0.5 μg g-1). The contribution rates of penguins and seals to tundra soil Se levels amounted to 91.7% and 78.0%. The lake sediment Se levels (mean 2.15 ± 0.87 μg g-1) close to penguin colonies were one order of magnitude higher than those (mean 0.49 ± 0.87 μg g-1) around normal tundra. Strong positive correlations (p < 0.01) of Se concentrations between lake sediments and adjacent tundra soils, and lower Se: P (<0.001) and S: P (<1) ratios in the lake sediments close to penguin colonies, indicated the infiltration or leaching of penguin guano as the predominant Se source in lake sediment. The Se species in penguin and seal guano were dominated by SeCys2 (76.6%) and SeMet (73.5%), respectively. The evidence from the predominant proportions of total organic matter-bound Se (Seom, 67%-70% of total Se) in penguin or seal colony soils further supported penguin or seal guano had a great influence on the distribution patterns of Se fractions in the tundra. This study confirmed that sea animal activities transported substantial amount Se from ocean to land, and significantly altered the biogeochemical cycle of Se in maritime Antarctica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Ye
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China; Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Renbin Zhu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
| | - Linxi Yuan
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wanying Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
| | - Huawei Zang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Yi Jiao
- Department of Geography, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, United States
| | - Xuebin Yin
- Key Laboratory of Functional Agriculture, Suzhou Research Institute, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China
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CASTRO MARLLONF, MEIER MARTIN, NEVES JÚLIOC, FRANCELINO MÁRCIOR, SCHAEFER CARLOSERNESTOG, OLIVEIRA TEOGENESS. Influence of different seabird species on trace metals content in Antarctic soils. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2022; 94:e20210623. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202220210623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Duda MP, Hargan KE, Michelutti N, Blais JM, Grooms C, Gilchrist HG, Mallory ML, Robertson GJ, Smol JP. Reconstructing Long-Term Changes in Avian Populations Using Lake Sediments: Opening a Window Onto the Past. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.698175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of long-term monitoring data for many wildlife populations is a limiting factor in establishing meaningful and achievable conservation goals. Even for well-monitored species, time series are often very short relative to the timescales required to understand a population’s baseline conditions before the contemporary period of increased human impacts. To fill in this critical information gap, techniques have been developed to use sedimentary archives to provide insights into long-term population dynamics over timescales of decades to millennia. Lake and pond sediments receiving animal inputs (e.g., feces, feathers) typically preserve a record of ecological and environmental information that reflects past changes in population size and dynamics. With a focus on bird-related studies, we review the development and use of several paleolimnological proxies to reconstruct past colony sizes, including trace metals, isotopes, lipid biomolecules, diatoms, pollen and non-pollen palynomorphs, invertebrate sub-fossils, pigments, and others. We summarize how animal-influenced sediments, cored from around the world, have been successfully used in addressing some of the most challenging questions in conservation biology, namely: How dynamic are populations on long-term timescales? How may populations respond to climate change? How have populations responded to human intrusion? Finally, we conclude with an assessment of the current state of the field, challenges to overcome, and future potential for research.
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Hong SY, Gal JK, Lee BY, Son WJ, Jung JW, La HS, Shin KH, Kim JH, Ha SY. Regional Differences in the Diets of Adélie and Emperor Penguins in the Ross Sea, Antarctica. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092681. [PMID: 34573647 PMCID: PMC8464710 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Stable isotope analysis (SIA) and Stable isotope analysis in R (SIAR) model were used to identify the diet composition and regional differences of Adélie and Emperor penguins in Ross Sea region. Adélie Penguin at Cape Hallett fed on Antarctic krill and Adélie Penguin at Inexpressible Island fed on ice krill and Antarctic silverfish. Emperor Penguins fed on Antarctic silverfish regardless breeding site. Therefore, Adélie Penguin showed regional difference in the diet and Emperor Penguin showed no regional differences in the diet. These diet composition of penguins is affected by competition and distribution of prey, it is important to study the diet of penguins in relation to the sympathetic food sources needed to understand the changes in energy flows and Ross Sea ecosystems due to climate change. Abstract To identify the dietary composition and characteristics of both Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae) and Emperor (Aptenodytes forsteri) penguins at four breeding sites, we performed stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope analysis of down samples taken from penguin chicks. Adélie Penguin chicks at Cape Hallett mostly fed on Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba; 65.5 ± 3.5%), a reflection of the prevalence of that species near Cape Hallett, and no significant differences were noted between 2017 and 2018. However, Adélie Penguin chicks at Inexpressible Island, located near Terra Nova Bay, fed on both Antarctic silverfish (Pleuragramma antarctica; 42.5%) and ice krill (Euphausia crystallorophias; 47%), reflecting the high biomass observed in Terra Nova Bay. Meanwhile, no significant difference was noted between the two breeding sites of the Emperor Penguin. Emperor Penguin chicks predominantly fed on Antarctic silverfish (74.5 ± 2.1%) at both breeding sites (Cape Washington and Coulman Island), suggesting that diet preference represents the main factor influencing Emperor Penguin foraging. In contrast, the diet of the Adélie Penguin reflects presumed regional differences in prey prevalence, as inferred from available survey data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Yeon Hong
- Division of Ocean Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea; (S.-Y.H.); (J.-K.G.); (B.-Y.L.); (W.-J.S.); (H.-S.L.)
- Department of Marine Sciences and Convergence Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Korea;
| | - Jong-Ku Gal
- Division of Ocean Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea; (S.-Y.H.); (J.-K.G.); (B.-Y.L.); (W.-J.S.); (H.-S.L.)
| | - Bo-Yeon Lee
- Division of Ocean Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea; (S.-Y.H.); (J.-K.G.); (B.-Y.L.); (W.-J.S.); (H.-S.L.)
| | - Wu-Ju Son
- Division of Ocean Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea; (S.-Y.H.); (J.-K.G.); (B.-Y.L.); (W.-J.S.); (H.-S.L.)
- Department of Polar Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Jin-Woo Jung
- Research Center for Endangered Species, National Institute of Ecology, Yeongyang 36531, Korea;
| | - Hyung-Sul La
- Division of Ocean Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea; (S.-Y.H.); (J.-K.G.); (B.-Y.L.); (W.-J.S.); (H.-S.L.)
| | - Kyung-Hoon Shin
- Department of Marine Sciences and Convergence Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Korea;
| | - Jeong-Hoon Kim
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.-H.K.); (S.-Y.H.); Tel.: +82-32-760-5513 (J.-H.K.); +82-32-760-5341 (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Sun-Yong Ha
- Division of Ocean Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), Incheon 21990, Korea; (S.-Y.H.); (J.-K.G.); (B.-Y.L.); (W.-J.S.); (H.-S.L.)
- Correspondence: (J.-H.K.); (S.-Y.H.); Tel.: +82-32-760-5513 (J.-H.K.); +82-32-760-5341 (S.-Y.H.)
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Castro MF, Neves JCL, Francelino MR, Schaefer CEGR, Oliveira TS. Seabirds enrich Antarctic soil with trace metals in organic fractions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 785:147271. [PMID: 33940409 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Coastal areas of Antarctica are subjected to anthropic contamination from around the world by trace metals biotransported and accumulated by seabird excrements. To explore this hypothesis, this study investigated the influence of seabirds on the contents of trace metals in soil organic fractions from Antarctica under different climatic conditions and from different parent materials. For this, soil profiles from the Maritime Antarctica region were selected based on the criteria of ornithogenesis, parent material, and climate. The contents of C, N, and selected metals (Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn) were analysed in the organic matter associated with minerals (MAOM), the particulate fraction (POM), and in the total soil (MAOM + POM). The ornithogenic soils presented the highest amounts of C and N in the soil, MAOM, and POM as compared to nonornithogenic soils. Seabird activity resulted in an enrichment of Pb, Zn, and Cu. Among these biotransported metals, Cu and Zn seem to originate from natural biogenic processes in marine food chains, unlike Pb, which seems to come from anthropogenic sources. The soils developed from igneous rocks presented higher amounts of Ba, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Sr in the soil, MAOM, and POM than soils from sedimentary rocks. The climate had no clear effect on most metals. Hence, seabirds enrich soils, MAOM, and POM with Cu, Zn, and Pb, whereas the amounts of Ba, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, and Sr are mainly lithogenic, associated with the parent material. Monitoring biotransported trace metals in ornithogenic soils is of great importance, since they can create environmental toxicity to terrestrial plants and animals and can influence the food chain in the coastal areas of Antarctica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marllon F Castro
- Soil Department, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Brazil.
| | - Júlio C L Neves
- Soil Department, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Brazil
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Effects of Diesel, Heavy Metals and Plastics Pollution on Penguins in Antarctica: A Review. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092505. [PMID: 34573474 PMCID: PMC8465831 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Antarctica is contaminated by anthropogenic pollution. Due to the persistent low temperatures, the toxic impacts of pollution to the environment can be extensive. The severity of the effects varies according to the animal species, chemical type and level of exposure. Penguins are at major risk as they are the most prominent group of animals in Antarctica. This review highlights the background of penguins in Antarctica, the anthropogenic pollution and cases, as well as the toxic effects of diesel, heavy metals and microplastics toward penguins. A bibliometric analysis is also included. Abstract Antarctica is a relatively pristine continent that attracts scientists and tourists alike. However, the risk of environmental pollution in Antarctica is increasing with the increase in the number of visitors. Recently, there has been a surge in interest regarding diesel, heavy metals and microplastics pollution. Contamination from these pollutants poses risks to the environment and the health of organisms inhabiting the continent. Penguins are one of the most prominent and widely distributed animals in Antarctica and are at major risk due to pollution. Even on a small scale, the impacts of pollution toward penguin populations are extensive. This review discusses the background of penguins in Antarctica, the anthropogenic pollution and cases, as well as the impacts of diesel, heavy metals and microplastics toxicities on penguins. The trends of the literature for the emerging risks of these pollutants are also reviewed through a bibliometric approach and network mapping analysis. A sum of 27 articles are analyzed on the effects of varying pollutants on penguins in Antarctica from 2000 to 2020 using the VOSviewer bibliometric software, Microsoft Excel and Tableau Public. Research articles collected from the Scopus database are evaluated for the most applicable research themes according to the bibliometric indicators (articles, geography distribution, annual production, integrated subject areas, key source journals and keyword or term interactions). Although bibliometric studies on the present research theme are not frequent, our results are sub-optimal due to the small number of search query matches from the Scopus database. As a result, our findings offer only a fragmentary comprehension of the topics in question. Nevertheless, this review provides valuable inputs regarding prospective research avenues for researchers to pursue in the future.
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Magesh NS, Tiwari A, Botsa SM, da Lima Leitao T. Hazardous heavy metals in the pristine lacustrine systems of Antarctica: Insights from PMF model and ERA techniques. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 412:125263. [PMID: 33548780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A comprehensive study was presented on the ecological risk, distribution, and quantitative source apportionment of heavy metals in the selected lacustrine systems of Schirmacher Hills using various environmental indices and methods. A total of 25 sediment samples from 16 lakes were collected around scientific research stations and analyzed for metals. Geochemical approaches and ecological risk assessment methods were implemented to characterize and evaluate the contamination level and associated risk in the lacustrine systems. Moreover, statistical techniques and a positive matrix factorization (PMF) model were indorsed to understand metals' association and apportion their probable sources. Results revealed that most of the heavy metals (mean concentration in ppm) such as Al (77,504.09), Cd (1.36), Co (29.52), Cr (102.75), Cu (65.19), Fe (57,632.87), Mn (679.05), Ni (49.13), Pb (10.11), and Zn (253.78) are originated from natural weathering of source rocks (78.53%) followed by human-induced actions/ station activities coupled with atmospheric deposition (21.47%). Environmental risk assessment (ERA) techniques suggest that the lakes in the study area are under minimal to moderate enrichment/ contamination category and experienced minimal to adverse biological effects where metal toxicity risk is minimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Magesh
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, Headland Sada, Vasco-da-Gama, Goa 403804 India.
| | - Anoop Tiwari
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, Headland Sada, Vasco-da-Gama, Goa 403804 India.
| | - Sathish Mohan Botsa
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, Headland Sada, Vasco-da-Gama, Goa 403804 India
| | - Tara da Lima Leitao
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, Headland Sada, Vasco-da-Gama, Goa 403804 India
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Wing SR, Wing LC, O’Connell-Milne SA, Barr D, Stokes D, Genovese S, Leichter JJ. Penguins and Seals Transport Limiting Nutrients Between Offshore Pelagic and Coastal Regions of Antarctica Under Changing Sea Ice. Ecosystems 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10021-020-00578-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Yang Z, Yuan L, Xie Z, Wang J, Li Z, Tu L, Sun L. Historical records and contamination assessment of potential toxic elements (PTEs) over the past 100 years in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 266:115205. [PMID: 32707354 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115205] [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: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Ny-Ålesund has been significantly impacted by anthropogenic activities (e.g. coal mining, scientific research, tourist shipping) over the past 100 years. However, the studies of potential toxic elements (PTEs) contamination in Ny-Ålesund currently mainly focus on surface soil or surface fjord sediments, and little is known about the history and status of PTEs contamination over the past 100 years. In this study, we collected a palaeo-notch sediment profile YN, analyzed the contents of six typical PTEs (Cu, Pb, Cd, Hg, As, Se) in the sediments, and assessed the historical pollution status in Ny-Ålesund using the pollution load index, geo-accumulation index and enrichment factor. The results showed that the contents of PTEs over the past 100 years increased rapidly compared with those during the interval of 9400-100 BP. In addition, Pb, Cd and Hg showed a clear signal of enrichment and were the main polluters among the PTEs analyzed. The contamination was likely linked to gas-oil powered generators, coal mining, research station, tourist shipping and long-range transport of pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongkang Yang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China; College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271000, China
| | - Linxi Yuan
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong -Liverpool University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhouqing Xie
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Jun Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271000, China
| | - Zhaolei Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271000, China
| | - Luyao Tu
- Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research and Institute of Geography, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
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Staniszewska M, Nehring I, Falkowska L, Bodziach K. Could biotransport be an important pathway in the transfer of phenol derivatives into the coastal zone and aquatic system of the Southern Baltic? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 262:114358. [PMID: 32443210 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114358] [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: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bird guano and the faeces of marine mammals appear to be a significant yet undisclosed biotransporter of Endocrine Disrupting Compounds in the marine environment. The authors determined the concentration of bisphenol A (BPA), 4-tert-octylphenol (4-t-OP) and 4-nonylphenol (4-NP) removed from birds and seals in their droppings into the coastal zone of the Gulf of Gdansk (Southern Baltic Sea).The research was carried out on samples of bird guano collected during the breeding season and after in 2016 at nesting sites, as well as on faecal samples from grey seals (Halichoerus grypus grypus) living in the Seal Centre of the Marine Station in Hel between 2014 and 2018. Measurements were carried out using high performance chromatography with fluorescence detector. Results have shown that the presence of seabird habitats and grey seal colonies in the coastal zone of the Gulf of Gdansk can have an impact on the pollution of the seashore (beach sand, bottom sediment and surface seawater) with phenol derivatives. The concentrations of BPA, 4-t-OP and 4-NP ranged from 0.1 to 32.97 ng∙g-1dw in sediment and beach sand, and from 0.23 to over 800 ng dm-3 in seawater. In the cases of bisphenol A and 4-tert-octylphenol safe concentration levels in the waters were exceeded. Bisphenol A concentrations were almost always found to be the highest. This was also noted in bird guano and seal faeces, although it was found to be much higher in the seal faeces - average 10149.79 ng g-1 dw, than in bird guano. An experiment conducted to assess BPA, 4-t-OP, 4-NP leaching from bird guano and seal faeces into seawater, also confirmed the importance of animal excrement in the circulation of these compounds in the marine ecosystem. The highest % of leaching related to BPA was noted at 20 °C and reached 84%. The lowest % of leaching was for 4-nonylphenol (44%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Staniszewska
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iga Nehring
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Karina Bodziach
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
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Wang X, Liu X, Fang Y, Jin J, Wu L, Fu P, Huang H, Zhang H, Emslie SD. Application of δ 15N to trace the impact of penguin guano on terrestrial and aquatic nitrogen cycles in Victoria Land, Ross Sea region, Antarctica. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 709:134496. [PMID: 31874340 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134496] [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: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Penguin colonies in Antarctica offer an ideal "natural laboratory" to investigate ecosystem function and the nitrogen (N) cycle. This study assessed the spatial distribution of penguin-derived N from guano and quantitatively assessed its impact on plant N utilization strategies in Victoria Land, Ross Sea region, Antarctica. Soil, moss, and aquatic microbial mats were collected inside and outside an active Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) colony and analyzed for δ15N of total and inorganic nitrogen (NH4+-N and NO3--N). The soil total nitrogen (TN), NH4+-N, and NO3--N concentrations, as well as their δ15N values were significantly higher in guano-impacted areas than those in guano-free areas, verifying that guano is an important N source at and near penguin colonies. However, even far from the penguin colonies, soil δ15N values resembled those in penguin colonies, suggesting strong spatial impacts of penguin-derived N. The moss impacted by guano was more enriched in δ15N than in guano-free areas. The δ15N values of NH4+-N and NO3--N in soils covered with moss revealed that the moss might prefer inorganic N in the absence of guano, while the dissolved organic N would become an important source for moss growing on ornithogenic soils. Aquatic microbial mat samples near penguin colonies were 15N-enriched, but 15N-depleted at upland sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Wang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.
| | - Yunting Fang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Forest Ecology and Management, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jing Jin
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Libin Wu
- Institute of Surface-Earth System Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Pingqing Fu
- Institute of Surface-Earth System Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Huihui Huang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Huijun Zhang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Steven D Emslie
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 601 S. College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
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16
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Chen Y, Shen L, Huang T, Chu Z, Xie Z. Transformation of sulfur species in lake sediments at Ardley Island and Fildes Peninsula, King George Island, Antarctic Peninsula. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 703:135591. [PMID: 31767317 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In Antarctica, penguins transport sulfur and other bio-elements in the form of guano from marine to terrestrial environments where they become deposited in ornithogenic soils and sediments, including lake or pond systems. Transformation of sulfur species in these terrestrial and aquatic deposits, however, has rarely been studied. Here, we used the cold diffusion method to analyze various sulfur species in a lake deposit of ornithogenic sediment core (C1) and a pristine lake sediment core (C2), collected from Ardley Island and Fildes Peninsula, Antarctic Peninsula, respectively. The total organic carbon, total phosphorus, total nitrogen and various sulfur species in C1 were more fluctuant and much higher than those in C2, indicating a primary source from penguin guano. In core C1, organic sulfur (Org-S) was the main form of sulfur, and sulfate (SO42-) was the main form of inorganic sulfur. The acid volatile sulfur (AVS) in C1 was much higher than pyrite sulfur (CRS). In the pristine lake sediment core C2, Org-S and SO42- were the main sulfur species. CRS was the primary form of reduced inorganic sulfur in C2 sediments in contrast to the AVS in C1, indicating that AVS had been effectively transformed into CRS in C1. Our results demonstrate that the high levels of organic matter in C1 likely limited the transformation of AVS to CRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqing Chen
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Lili Shen
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tao Huang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Zhuding Chu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Zhouqing Xie
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
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17
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Chen Y, Ge J, Huang T, Shen L, Chu Z, Xie Z. Restriction of sulfate reduction on the bioavailability and toxicity of trace metals in Antarctic lake sediments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 151:110807. [PMID: 32056601 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.110807] [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] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In this study, Acid-Volatile Sulfur (AVS), trace metals Cu, Cd and Zn and their chemical speciation based on BCR-sequential and simultaneous extraction (SEMs) in Antarctic lake sediments (Y2-1 and YO) were analyzed to investigate the restriction of sulfate reduction on the bioavailability and toxicity of trace metals. Much higher trace metals in Y2-1 indicating a primary source from penguin guano. The main chemical speciation of Cu and Cd in Y2-1 was their oxidizable fraction in contrast to those of weak-acid extraction in YO. Lower ratio of ΣSEM/AVS in Y2-1 indicating less toxicity of the trace metals. The main chemical speciation of Cd in Y2-1 was their oxidizable fraction in contrast to that exchangeable fraction in penguin guano, indicating that although amounts of Cd was transported from marine to lake by penguins, strong sulfate reduction in ornithogenic sediments restricts the bioavailability and toxicity of Cd through the formation of insoluble sulfide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqing Chen
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Jingwen Ge
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tao Huang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Lili Shen
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Zhuding Chu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Zhouqing Xie
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
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18
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Xu Q, Chu Z, Gao Y, Mei Y, Yang Z, Huang Y, Yang L, Xie Z, Sun L. Levels, sources and influence mechanisms of heavy metal contamination in topsoils in Mirror Peninsula, East Antarctica. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 257:113552. [PMID: 31771929 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metal contaminants in Mirror Peninsula, East Antarctica, have rarely been studied and the source and influencing factors are poorly understood. We sampled a grid of 189 topsoil samples from Mirror Peninsula and analyzed the concentrations of Zn, Cu, U, Cr, Ga, Pb, Hg, Se and As; we also calculated the chemical index of alteration (CIA), a proxy of weathering. The results show that the distributions of Cr, Ga, Cu, and Zn are associated with weathering; the distributions of As and Pb are related to vehicle use and unloading activities at the wharfs, respectively; and the distribution of Hg is likely associated with both anthropogenic impacts and biological activity. The contamination level of these heavy metals in Mirror Peninsula is relatively low and within the controllable range. Both weathering processes and anthropogenic impacts can cause the enrichment of heavy metals; thus reliable source apportionment is crucial in studying heavy metal enrichment and contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qibin Xu
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Zhuding Chu
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Yuesong Gao
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Yanjun Mei
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China; State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal Universtiy, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zhongkang Yang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Yikang Huang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Lianjiao Yang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Zhouqing Xie
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China.
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China.
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19
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Chu Z, Yang Z, Wang Y, Sun L, Yang W, Yang L, Gao Y. Assessment of heavy metal contamination from penguins and anthropogenic activities on Fildes Peninsula and Ardley Island, Antarctic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 646:951-957. [PMID: 30067965 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Fildes Peninsula, with a high density of scientific stations, has been significantly impacted by anthropogenic activities. However, the contamination from penguins, a biovector that transports pollutants from ocean to land, has seldom been assessed. In this study, 32 lacustrine surface sediment samples on Fildes Peninsula and 8 lacustrine surface sediment samples on Ardley Island were collected to determine Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd, Co, Sb, Hg and P levels. The results showed that the heavy metal contents of lacustrine sediments on Ardley Island are significantly higher than those on Fildes Peninsula. The contaminants on Fildes Peninsula are mainly derived from anthropogenic activities, while the contaminants on Ardley Island are transported to the lacustrine sediments in the form of penguin guanos after a series of biomagnification in the food chain. The results indicated that the impact of penguin-transported contamination on Antarctic environment outweighs human activities near scientific stations in some areas. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the impacts of Antarctic animals on the Antarctic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuding Chu
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Zhongkang Yang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Yuhong Wang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China.
| | - Wenqing Yang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Lianjiao Yang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Yuesong Gao
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
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20
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Cipro CVZ, Bustamante P, Petry MV, Montone RC. Seabird colonies as relevant sources of pollutants in Antarctic ecosystems: Part 1 - Trace elements. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 204:535-547. [PMID: 29684873 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Global distillation is classically pointed as the biggest responsible for contaminant inputs in Polar ecosystems. Mercury (Hg) and other trace elements (TEs) also present natural sources, whereas the biologically mediated input is typically ignored. However, bioaccumulation and biomagnification combined with the fact that seabirds gather in large numbers into large colonies and excrete on land might represent an important local TEs input. A previous work suggested these colonies as sources of not only nutrients, but also organic contaminants. To evaluate a similar hypothesis for TEs, samples of lichen (n = 55), mosses (n = 58) and soil (n = 37) were collected in 13 locations within the South Shetlands Archipelago during the austral summers of 2013-14 and 2014-15. They were divided in: "colony" (within the colony itself for soil and bordering it for vegetation) and "control" (at least 50 m away from colony interference), analysed for TEs (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn) and stable isotopes (C and N). In most cases, soil seems the best matrix to assess colonies as TEs sources, as it presented more differences between control/colony sites than vegetation. Colonies are clearly local sources of organic matter, Cd, Hg and likely of As, Se and Zn. Conversely, Co, Cr, Ni and Pb come presumably from other sources, natural or anthropogenic. In general, isotopes were more useful for interpreting vegetation data due to fractionation of absorbed animal-derived organic matter. Other local Hg sources could be inferred from high levels in control sites, location and wind patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Z Cipro
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica Marinha, Instituto Oceanográfico (LabQOM), Universidade de São Paulo, Praça do Oceanográfico n° 191 (sala 186), 05508-120, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266, CNRS-Université de La Rochelle, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17042 La Rochelle, Cedex 01, France.
| | - P Bustamante
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266, CNRS-Université de La Rochelle, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17042 La Rochelle, Cedex 01, France
| | - M V Petry
- Laboratório de Ornitologia e Animais Marinhos, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, Av. Unisinos n° 950, Cristo Rei, São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, 93022-000, Brazil
| | - R C Montone
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica Marinha, Instituto Oceanográfico (LabQOM), Universidade de São Paulo, Praça do Oceanográfico n° 191 (sala 186), 05508-120, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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21
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González-Bergonzoni I, Johansen KL, Mosbech A, Landkildehus F, Jeppesen E, Davidson TA. Small birds, big effects: the little auk ( Alle alle) transforms high Arctic ecosystems. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 284:rspb.2016.2572. [PMID: 28202811 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2016.2572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In some arctic areas, marine-derived nutrients (MDN) resulting from fish migrations fuel freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, increasing primary production and biodiversity. Less is known, however, about the role of seabird-MDN in shaping ecosystems. Here, we examine how the most abundant seabird in the North Atlantic, the little auk (Alle alle), alters freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems around the North Water Polynya (NOW) in Greenland. We compare stable isotope ratios (δ15N and δ13C) of freshwater and terrestrial biota, terrestrial vegetation indices and physical-chemical properties, productivity and community structure of fresh waters in catchments with and without little auk colonies. The presence of colonies profoundly alters freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems by providing nutrients and massively enhancing primary production. Based on elevated δ15N in MDN, we estimate that MDN fuels more than 85% of terrestrial and aquatic biomass in bird influenced systems. Furthermore, by using different proxies of bird impact (colony distance, algal δ15N) it is possible to identify a gradient in ecosystem response to increasing bird impact. Little auk impact acidifies the freshwater systems, reducing taxonomic richness of macroinvertebrates and truncating food webs. These results demonstrate that the little auk acts as an ecosystem engineer, transforming ecosystems across a vast region of Northwest Greenland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan González-Bergonzoni
- Department of Bioscience and Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Vejlsøvej, 25, 8600 Silkeborg, Denmark .,Departamento de Ecología y Evolución, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Iguá 4225, Malvín Norte, 11400 Montevideo, Uruguay.,Laboratorio de Etología, Ecología y Evolución, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Kasper L Johansen
- Department of Bioscience and Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Anders Mosbech
- Department of Bioscience and Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Frank Landkildehus
- Department of Bioscience and Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Vejlsøvej, 25, 8600 Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Erik Jeppesen
- Department of Bioscience and Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Vejlsøvej, 25, 8600 Silkeborg, Denmark.,Sino-Danish Centre for Education and Research, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Room N501, UCAS Teaching Building, Zhongguancun Campus, Zhongguancun South 1st Alley, Haidian District, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China.,Greenland Climate Research Centre (GCRC), Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, Kivioq 2, 3900 Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Thomas A Davidson
- Department of Bioscience and Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Vejlsøvej, 25, 8600 Silkeborg, Denmark
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22
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Santamans AC, Boluda R, Picazo A, Gil C, Ramos-Miras J, Tejedo P, Pertierra LR, Benayas J, Camacho A. Soil features in rookeries of Antarctic penguins reveal sea to land biotransport of chemical pollutants. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181901. [PMID: 28813428 PMCID: PMC5558944 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The main soil physical-chemical features, the concentrations of a set of pollutants, and the soil microbiota linked to penguin rookeries have been studied in 10 selected sites located at the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula (Maritime Antarctica). This study aims to test the hypothesis that biotransport by penguins increases the concentration of pollutants, especially heavy metals, in Antarctic soils, and alters its microbiota. Our results show that penguins do transport certain chemical elements and thus cause accumulation in land areas through their excreta. Overall, a higher penguin activity is associated with higher organic carbon content and with higher concentrations of certain pollutants in soils, especially cadmium, cooper and arsenic, as well as zinc and selenium. In contrast, in soils that are less affected by penguins’ faecal depositions, the concentrations of elements of geochemical origin, such as iron and cobalt, increase their relative weighted contribution, whereas the above-mentioned pollutants maintain very low levels. The concentrations of pollutants are far higher in those penguin rookeries that are more exposed to ship traffic. In addition, the soil microbiota of penguin-influenced soils was studied by molecular methods. Heavily penguin-affected soils have a massive presence of enteric bacteria, whose relative dominance can be taken as an indicator of penguin influence. Faecal bacteria are present in addition to typical soil taxa, the former becoming dominant in the microbiota of penguin-affected soils, whereas typical soil bacteria, such as Actinomycetales, co-dominate the microbiota of less affected soils. Results indicate that the continuous supply by penguin faeces, and not the selectivity by increased pollutant concentrations is the main factor shaping the soil bacterial community. Overall, massive penguin influence results in increased concentrations of certain pollutants and in a strong change in taxa dominance in the soil bacterial community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Santamans
- Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Universitat de Valencia, Paterna, Spain
- Departament de Biologia Vegetal, Facultat de Farmàcia, Universitat de València, Burjassot, València, Spain
| | - Rafael Boluda
- Departament de Biologia Vegetal, Facultat de Farmàcia, Universitat de València, Burjassot, València, Spain
| | - Antonio Picazo
- Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Universitat de Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | - Carlos Gil
- Escuela Politécnica Superior, Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad de Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Joaquín Ramos-Miras
- Escuela Politécnica Superior, Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad de Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Pablo Tejedo
- Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis R. Pertierra
- Departamento de Biogeografía y Cambio Global, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Benayas
- Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Camacho
- Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Universitat de Valencia, Paterna, Spain
- * E-mail:
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Szopińska M, Namieśnik J, Polkowska Ż. How Important Is Research on Pollution Levels in Antarctica? Historical Approach, Difficulties and Current Trends. REVIEWS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 239:79-156. [PMID: 26857123 DOI: 10.1007/398_2015_5008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that Antarctica is a continent notably free from large negative impact of human activities, literature data can be the basis for concluding that this is not an area free from anthropogenic pollutants. Pollutants, which are identified in various elements of the environment of Antarctica, are mostly connected with long-range atmospheric transport (LRAT) and deposition in this area. The study presents: a historical overview of research pertaining to the presence of pollutants in entire Antarctica; a description of the development of research on pollutants in various environmental samples conducted in this area since 1960; a detailed description of contemporary analytical research (2000-2014); information on concentration levels of a broad range of pollutants present in various elements of the environment. The data collected can provide grounds for concluding that pollutants present in this area can contribute to gradual degradation of Antarctic ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Szopińska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza St., Gdansk, 80-233, Poland
| | - Jacek Namieśnik
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza St., Gdansk, 80-233, Poland
| | - Żaneta Polkowska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza St., Gdansk, 80-233, Poland.
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Rudolph I, Chiang G, Galbán-Malagón C, Mendoza R, Martinez M, Gonzalez C, Becerra J, Servos MR, Munkittrick KR, Barra R. Persistent organic pollutants and porphyrins biomarkers in penguin faeces from Kopaitic Island and Antarctic Peninsula. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 573:1390-1396. [PMID: 27450255 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.07.091] [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: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels were determined in the faeces of three Antarctic Peninsula penguin species to assess viability as a non-invasive approach for sampling PCBs in Antarctic biota. These determinations were complemented with stable isotope and porphyrins assessments, and together this methodology determined the role of diet and metabolic disruption in penguins. Up to 60% of the collected faecal samples evidenced low molecular weight PCBs, of which, the more volatile compounds were predominant, in agreement with previous results. The highest PCB levels were reported in the gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua; 35.3ngg-1 wet weight average), followed by the chinstrap (Pygoscelis antarctica; 6.4ngg-1 wet weight average) and Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae; 12.9ngg-1 wet weight average). Stable isotope analyses (δ15N and δ13C) demonstrated that gentoo feeding and foraging habits differed from those of Adélie and chinstrap penguins. A strong positive correlation was found between PCB concentrations and δ15N, indicating the role of diet on the observed pollutant levels. Porphyrins metabolite levels were also directly correlated with PCB concentrations. These results suggest that PCB levels impair the health of Antarctic penguins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Rudolph
- Aquatic Systems Department, Faculty of Environmental Sciences and EULA-Chile Centre, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile
| | - Gustavo Chiang
- Canadian Rivers Institute, University of New Brunswick, St. John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada; Fundación MERI, Santiago 7650720, Chile
| | - Cristóbal Galbán-Malagón
- Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, Faculty of Ecology and Natural Resources, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370371, Chile
| | - Rafael Mendoza
- Instituto de Investigación Pesquera, Dpto. de Estudios Ambientales, Talcahuano 4260000, Chile
| | - Miguel Martinez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile
| | - Carlos Gonzalez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile
| | - José Becerra
- Departamento de Botánica, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile
| | - Mark R Servos
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Kelly R Munkittrick
- Canadian Rivers Institute, University of New Brunswick, St. John, New Brunswick E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - Ricardo Barra
- Aquatic Systems Department, Faculty of Environmental Sciences and EULA-Chile Centre, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile.
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25
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Huang T, Yang L, Chu Z, Sun L, Yin X. Geochemical record of high emperor penguin populations during the Little Ice Age at Amanda Bay, Antarctica. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 565:1185-1191. [PMID: 27261428 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.05.166] [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: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) are sensitive to the Antarctic climate change because they breed on the fast sea ice. Studies of paleohistory for the emperor penguin are rare, due to the lack of archives on land. In this study, we obtained an emperor penguin ornithogenic sediment profile (PI) and performed geochronological, geochemical and stable isotope analyses on the sediments and feather remains. Two radiocarbon dates of penguin feathers in PI indicate that emperor penguins colonized Amanda Bay as early as CE 1540. By using the bio-elements (P, Se, Hg, Zn and Cd) in sediments and stable isotope values (δ(15)N and δ(13)C) in feathers, we inferred relative population size and dietary change of emperor penguins during the period of CE 1540-2008, respectively. An increase in population size with depleted N isotope ratios for emperor penguins on N island at Amanda Bay during the Little Ice Age (CE 1540-1866) was observed, suggesting that cold climate affected the penguin's breeding habitat, prey availability and thus their population and dietary composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Lianjiao Yang
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Zhuding Chu
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Liguang Sun
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Xijie Yin
- Third Institute of Oceanography, State Oceanic Administration, Xiamen 361005, China
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Cheng W, Sun L, Kimpe LE, Mallory ML, Smol JP, Gallant LR, Li J, Blais JM. Sterols and Stanols Preserved in Pond Sediments Track Seabird Biovectors in a High Arctic Environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:9351-9360. [PMID: 27409713 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b02767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Seabirds are major vertebrates in the coastal ecosystems of the Canadian High Arctic, where they transport substantial amounts of marine-derived nutrients and pollutants from oceans to land by depositing guano and stomach oils to their nesting area, which often includes nearby freshwater ponds. Here we present novel indicators for evaluating the impact of seabirds on freshwater ecosystems. The ratio of cholesterol/(cholesterol + sitosterol) in pond sediments showed significant enrichment near a nesting colony of northern fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) and was significantly correlated with ornithogenic enrichment of sediment as determined by sedimentary δ(15)N. The sterol ratio was also correlated with several bioaccumulative persistent organic pollutants (POPs), suggesting its usefulness in tracking biovector enrichment of contaminants. Human-derived epicoprostanol was also analyzed in the sediments, and its relationship with an abandoned, prehistoric camp was recorded, suggesting its potential as a tracer of prehistoric human activities in the Arctic. Sterols and stanols preserved in sediments appear to be useful geochemical tools that will inform our understanding of migratory species and the presence of prehistoric human populations in the Arctic, and possibly other animal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhan Cheng
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Polar Environment, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Linda E Kimpe
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University , Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - John P Smol
- Paleoecological Environmental Assessment and Research Lab (PEARL), Department of Biology, Queen's University , Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Lauren R Gallant
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Jinping Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Resources on Tibetan Plateau, Qinghai Normal University , Xining 810008, China
| | - Jules M Blais
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
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Mwangi JK, Lee WJ, Wang LC, Sung PJ, Fang LS, Lee YY, Chang-Chien GP. Persistent organic pollutants in the Antarctic coastal environment and their bioaccumulation in penguins. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 216:924-934. [PMID: 27400905 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PBDD/Fs), polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), have been identified in penguins, lichens, soils, and ornithogenic soils in the Antarctic coastal environment in this study. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has reported PBDD/F and PBB data from Antarctica. The POP mass contents in penguins were in the following order: PCBs >> PBDEs >> PCDD/Fs; PCBs were the dominant pollutants (6310-144,000 pg/g-lipid), with World Health Organization toxic equivalency values being 2-14 times higher than those of PCDD/Fs. Long-range atmospheric transport is the most primary route by which POPs travel to Antarctica; however, local sources, such as research activities and penguin colonies, also influence POP distribution in the local Antarctic environment. In penguins, the biomagnification factor (BMF) of PCBs was 61.3-3760, considerably higher than that for other POPs. According to BMF data in Adélie penguins, hydrophobic PBDE congeners were more biomagnified at log Kow > 6, and levels decreased at log Kow > 7.5 because larger molecular sizes inhibited transfer across cell membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Kennedy Mwangi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1, University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jhy Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1, University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan.
| | - Lin-Chi Wang
- Department of Civil Engineering and Geomatics, Cheng Shiu University, No. 840, Chengching Road, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - Ping-Jyun Sung
- National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Pingtung 944, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Shing Fang
- Department of Leisure and Sport Management, Cheng Shiu University, No. 840, Chengching Road, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Yi Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1, University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Guo-Ping Chang-Chien
- Department of Cosmetic and Fashion Styling, Cheng Shiu University, No. 840, Chengching Road, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
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Lou C, Liu X, Nie Y, Emslie SD. Fractionation distribution and preliminary ecological risk assessment of As, Hg and Cd in ornithogenic sediments from the Ross Sea region, East Antarctica. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 538:644-653. [PMID: 26322729 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.08.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate mobility of toxic elements and their potential ecological risk caused by seabird biovectors, the fractionation distributions of arsenic (As), mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) were investigated in three ornithogenic sediment profiles from the Ross Sea region, East Antarctica. The results show residual As holds a dominant position, and Hg mainly derives from residual, organic matter-bound and humic acid-bound fractions, indicating weak mobility of As and Hg. However, exchangeable Cd occupies a considerable proportion in studied samples, suggesting Cd has strong mobility. The preliminary evaluation of Sediment Quality Guidelines (SGQs) shows adverse biological effects may occur occasionally for As and Cd, and rarely for Hg. Using Risk Assessment Code (RAC), the ecological risk is assessed at moderate, low and very high for As, Hg and Cd pollution, respectively. Organic matter derived from guano is the main factor controlling the mobility of Hg and Cd through adsorption and complexation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuangneng Lou
- Institute of Polar Environment, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Institute of Polar Environment, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Yaguang Nie
- Institute of Polar Environment, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Steven D Emslie
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 601S. College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
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29
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From warm to cold: migration of Adélie penguins within Cape Bird, Ross Island. Sci Rep 2015; 5:11530. [PMID: 26113152 PMCID: PMC4650636 DOI: 10.1038/srep11530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their sensitivity to environmental change, penguins in Antarctica are widely used as bio-indicators in paleoclimatic research. On the basis of bio-element assemblages identified in four ornithogenic sediment profiles, we reconstructed the historical penguin population change at Cape Bird, Ross Island, for the past 1600 years. Clear succession of penguin population peaks were observed in different profiles at about 1400 AD, which suggested a high probability of migration within this region. The succession was most obviously marked by a sand layer lasting from 1400 to 1900 AD in one of the analyzed profiles. Multiple physical/chemical parameters indicated this sand layer was not formed in a lacustrine environment, but was marine-derived. Both isostatic subsidence and frequent storms under the colder climatic condition of the Little Ice Age were presumed to have caused the abandonment of the colonies, and we believe the penguins migrated from the coastal area of mid Cape Bird northward and to higher ground as recorded in the other sediment profiles. This migration was an ecological response to global climate change and possible subsequent geological effects in Antarctica.
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30
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Seabird colony effects on soil properties and vegetation zonation patterns on King George Island, Maritime Antarctic. Polar Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-015-1730-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Klimaszyk P, Brzeg A, Rzymski P, Piotrowicz R. Black spots for aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems: impact of a perennial cormorant colony on the environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 517:222-31. [PMID: 25732798 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.02.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The global growth of populations of different cormorant species has raised concern on the consequences of their presence in the environment. This study examined the impact of a perennial colony (160 breeding pairs) of great cormorants on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The deposition of bird-originating nutrients within the area of colony, their accumulation in soils and the fluxed of chemical substances to a nearby lake were investigated. The impact of cormorants on terrestrial vegetation and microbial pollution of the lake were also studied. The soils beneath the colony were found to contain extremely high concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus. The overgrowing vegetation was largely limited with nitrophilous and invasive species being more abundant. Increased loads of organic matter, nitrogen and phosphorus were also found in groundwater and particularly, surface runoff. The colony area delivered significant amounts of nutrients to the lake also when the birds were absent. The lake water near colony was also characterized by increased nutrient content and additionally higher number of faecal bacteria. The present results demonstrate the complexity through which the effect of cormorant colonies can be manifested simultaneously in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Klimaszyk
- Department of Water Protection, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-614 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Brzeg
- Department of Plant Ecology and Environment Protection, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Biology and Environmental Protection, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 8, 60-806 Poznań, Poland
| | - Ryszard Piotrowicz
- Department of Water Protection, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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Corbett PA, King CK, Mondon JA. Tracking spatial distribution of human-derived wastewater from Davis Station, East Antarctica, using δ15N and δ13C stable isotopes. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 90:41-47. [PMID: 25487089 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Stable isotope ratios, δ15N and δ13C were effectively used to determine the geographical dispersion of human derived sewage from Davis Station, East Antarctica, using Antarctic rock cod (Trematomus bernacchii). Fish within 0-4 km downstream of the outfall exhibited higher δ15N and δ13C values relative to reference sites. Nitrogen in particular showed a stepped decrease in δ15N with increasing distance from the discharge point by 1-2‰. Stable isotopes were better able to detect the extent of wastewater contamination than other techniques including faecal coliform and sterol measures. Uptake and assimilation of δ15N and δ13C up to 4 km from the outfall adds to growing evidence indicating the current level of wastewater treatment at Davis Station is not sufficient to avoid impact to the surrounding environment. Isotopic assimilation in T. bernacchii is a viable biomarker for investigation of initial sewage exposure and longer term monitoring in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Corbett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Princes Highway, Warrnambool, Victoria 3280, Australia.
| | - Catherine K King
- Terrestrial and Nearshore Ecosystems, Australian Antarctic Division, 203 Channel Highway, Kingston, Tasmania 7050, Australia.
| | - Julie A Mondon
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Princes Highway, Warrnambool, Victoria 3280, Australia.
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33
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Huang T, Sun L, Wang Y, Emslie SD. Paleodietary changes by penguins and seals in association with Antarctic climate and sea ice extent. CHINESE SCIENCE BULLETIN-CHINESE 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11434-014-0300-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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