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Escobar-Camacho D, Rosero-López D, Ruiz-Urigüen M, Barragán KS, Carpintero-Salvador N, Daza JR, Aldous A, Benítez S, Tear T, Encalada AC. Mercury in aquatic ecosystems of two indigenous communities in the Piedmont Ecuadorian Amazon: evidence from fish, water, and sediments. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 33:440-456. [PMID: 38847980 PMCID: PMC11213792 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-024-02764-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Mercury is a highly toxic element present in water, soil, air, and biota. Anthropogenic activities, such as burning fossil fuels, mining, and deforestation, contribute to the presence and mobilization of mercury between environmental compartments. Although current research on mercury pathways has advanced our understanding of the risks associated with human exposure, limited information exists for remote areas with high diversity of fauna, flora, and indigenous communities. This study aims to deepen our understanding of the presence of total mercury in water, sediments, and fish, within aquatic ecosystems of two indigenous territories: Gomataon (Waorani Nationality) and Sinangoé (Ai´Cofán Nationality) in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Our findings indicate that, for most fish (91.5%), sediment (100%) and water (95.3%) samples, mercury levels fall under international limits. For fish, no significant differences in mercury levels were detected between the two communities. However, eight species exceeded recommended global limits, and one surpassed the threshold according to Ecuadorian legislation. Piscivore and omnivore fish exhibited the highest concentrations of total mercury among trophic guilds. Only one water sample from each community's territory exceeded these limits. Total mercury in sediments exhibited greater concentrations in Gomataon than Sinangoé. Greater levels of mercury in sediments were associated with the occurrence of total organic carbon. Considering that members of the communities consume the analyzed fish, an interdisciplinary approach, including isotopic analysis, methylmercury sampling in humans, and mercury monitoring over time, is imperative for a detailed risk assessment of mercury exposure in Amazonian communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Escobar-Camacho
- Laboratorio de Ecología Acuática, Instituto BIOSFERA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, 170150, Ecuador.
| | - Daniela Rosero-López
- Laboratorio de Ecología Acuática, Instituto BIOSFERA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, 170150, Ecuador
| | - Melany Ruiz-Urigüen
- Core Lab de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
- Ingeniería Ambiental, Colegio de Ciencias e Ingenierías, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Karla S Barragán
- Laboratorio de Ecología Acuática, Instituto BIOSFERA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, 170150, Ecuador
| | | | - José R Daza
- Laboratorio de Ecología Acuática, Instituto BIOSFERA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, 170150, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Timothy Tear
- Biodiversity Research Institute, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Andrea C Encalada
- Laboratorio de Ecología Acuática, Instituto BIOSFERA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, 170150, Ecuador
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2
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Evers DC, Ackerman JT, Åkerblom S, Bally D, Basu N, Bishop K, Bodin N, Braaten HFV, Burton MEH, Bustamante P, Chen C, Chételat J, Christian L, Dietz R, Drevnick P, Eagles-Smith C, Fernandez LE, Hammerschlag N, Harmelin-Vivien M, Harte A, Krümmel EM, Brito JL, Medina G, Barrios Rodriguez CA, Stenhouse I, Sunderland E, Takeuchi A, Tear T, Vega C, Wilson S, Wu P. Global mercury concentrations in biota: their use as a basis for a global biomonitoring framework. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 33:325-396. [PMID: 38683471 PMCID: PMC11213816 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-024-02747-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
An important provision of the Minamata Convention on Mercury is to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the adopted measures and its implementation. Here, we describe for the first time currently available biotic mercury (Hg) data on a global scale to improve the understanding of global efforts to reduce the impact of Hg pollution on people and the environment. Data from the peer-reviewed literature were compiled in the Global Biotic Mercury Synthesis (GBMS) database (>550,000 data points). These data provide a foundation for establishing a biomonitoring framework needed to track Hg concentrations in biota globally. We describe Hg exposure in the taxa identified by the Minamata Convention: fish, sea turtles, birds, and marine mammals. Based on the GBMS database, Hg concentrations are presented at relevant geographic scales for continents and oceanic basins. We identify some effective regional templates for monitoring methylmercury (MeHg) availability in the environment, but overall illustrate that there is a general lack of regional biomonitoring initiatives around the world, especially in Africa, Australia, Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and South Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Temporal trend data for Hg in biota are generally limited. Ecologically sensitive sites (where biota have above average MeHg tissue concentrations) have been identified throughout the world. Efforts to model and quantify ecosystem sensitivity locally, regionally, and globally could help establish effective and efficient biomonitoring programs. We present a framework for a global Hg biomonitoring network that includes a three-step continental and oceanic approach to integrate existing biomonitoring efforts and prioritize filling regional data gaps linked with key Hg sources. We describe a standardized approach that builds on an evidence-based evaluation to assess the Minamata Convention's progress to reduce the impact of global Hg pollution on people and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Evers
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA.
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA, 95620, USA
| | | | - Dominique Bally
- African Center for Environmental Health, BP 826 Cidex 03, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Nil Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kevin Bishop
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Upsalla, Sweden
| | - Nathalie Bodin
- Research Institute for Sustainable Development Seychelles Fishing Authority, Victoria, Seychelles
| | | | - Mark E H Burton
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Paco Bustamante
- Littoral, Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS La Rochelle Université, 2 Rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000, La Rochelle, France
| | - Celia Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - John Chételat
- Environment and Cliamte Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Linroy Christian
- Department of Analytical Services, Dunbars, Friars Hill, St John, Antigua and Barbuda
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Paul Drevnick
- Teck American Incorporated, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Collin Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Luis E Fernandez
- Sabin Center for Environment and Sustainability and Department of Biology, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, 29106, USA
- Centro de Innovación Científica Amazonica (CINCIA), Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, Peru
| | - Neil Hammerschlag
- Shark Research Foundation Inc, 29 Wideview Lane, Boutiliers Point, NS, B3Z 0M9, Canada
| | - Mireille Harmelin-Vivien
- Aix-Marseille Université, Université de Toulon, CNRS/INSU/IRD, Institut Méditerranéen d'Océanologie (MIO), UM 110, Campus de Luminy, case 901, 13288, Marseille, cedex 09, France
| | - Agustin Harte
- Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions Secretariat, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Chem. des Anémones 15, 1219, Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eva M Krümmel
- Inuit Circumpolar Council-Canada, Ottawa, Canada and ScienTissiME Inc, Barry's Bay, ON, Canada
| | - José Lailson Brito
- Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rua Sao Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracana, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Medina
- Director of Basel Convention Coordinating Centre, Stockholm Convention Regional Centre for Latin America and the Caribbean, Hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Iain Stenhouse
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Elsie Sunderland
- Harvard University, Pierce Hall 127, 29 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Akinori Takeuchi
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Health and Environmental Risk Division, 16-2 Onogawa Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Tim Tear
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Claudia Vega
- Centro de Innovaccion Cientifica Amazonica (CINCIA), Jiron Ucayali 750, Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, 17001, Peru
| | - Simon Wilson
- Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) Secretariat, N-9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Pianpian Wu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
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3
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Bolaños-Alvarez Y, Ruiz-Fernández AC, Sanchez-Cabeza JA, Asencio MD, Espinosa LF, Parra JP, Garay J, Delanoy R, Solares N, Montenegro K, Peña A, López F, Castillo-Navarro AC, Batista MG, Quejido-Cabezas A, Metian M, Pérez-Bernal LH, Alonso-Hernández CM. Regional assessment of the historical trends of mercury in sediment cores from Wider Caribbean coastal environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:170609. [PMID: 38316296 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Spatial and temporal variations of mercury (Hg) concentrations, enrichment, and potential ecological risks were studied in a suite of lead-210 (210Pb) dated sediment cores from 13 Wider Caribbean Region coastal environments. Broad variability of Hg concentrations (19-18761 ng g-1) was observed, encompassing even background levels (38-100 ng g-1). Most Hg concentration profiles exhibited a characteristic upward trend, reaching their peak values in the past two decades. Most of the sediment sections, showing from moderately to very severe Hg enrichment, were found in cores from Havana Bay and Sagua River Estuary (Cuba), Port-au-Prince Bay (Haiti), and Cartagena Bay (Colombia). These were also the most seriously contaminated sites, which can be considered regional Hg 'hotspots'. Both Havana Bay and Port-au-Prince Bay reportedly receive waste from large cities with populations exceeding 2 million inhabitants, and watersheds affected by high erosion rates. The records from the Sagua River Estuary and Cartagena Bay reflected historical Hg contamination associated with chloralkali plants, and these sites are of very high ecological risk. These results constitute a major contribution to the scarce regional data on contaminants in the Wider Caribbean Region and provide reference information to support the evaluation of the effectiveness of the Minamata Convention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoelvis Bolaños-Alvarez
- Centro de Estudios Ambientales de Cienfuegos (CEAC), AP 5. Ciudad Nuclear, Cienfuegos CP 59350, Cuba
| | - Ana Carolina Ruiz-Fernández
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Joel Montes Camarena s/n, Col. Playa Sur, 82040 Mazatlán, Mexico.
| | - Joan-Albert Sanchez-Cabeza
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Joel Montes Camarena s/n, Col. Playa Sur, 82040 Mazatlán, Mexico
| | - Misael Díaz Asencio
- Centro de Estudios Ambientales de Cienfuegos (CEAC), AP 5. Ciudad Nuclear, Cienfuegos CP 59350, Cuba; Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores (ENES), Unidad Mérida, UNAM, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Luisa F Espinosa
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras "José Betito Vives DeAndreis" - INVEMAR, Calle 25 No. 2-55, Playa Salguero, Santa Marta, D.T.C.H., Colombia
| | - Juan Pablo Parra
- Oficina de Asuntos Nucleares, Ministerio de Minas y Energía, Colombia
| | - Jesús Garay
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras "José Betito Vives DeAndreis" - INVEMAR, Calle 25 No. 2-55, Playa Salguero, Santa Marta, D.T.C.H., Colombia
| | - Ramón Delanoy
- Instituto de Física, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | | | - Katia Montenegro
- Centro para la Investigación en Recursos Acuáticos de Nicaragua, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua, Managua (CIRA/UNAN-Managua), Del Hospital Monte España 300 m. al norte, Managua, Nicaragua
| | - Alexis Peña
- Autoridad de Recursos Acuáticos de Panamá (ARAP), Edificio Riviera, Ave. Justo Arosemena, Calle 45 Bella Vista, Ciudad de Panamá, Panamá
| | - Fabiola López
- Escuela de Ciencias Aplicadas del Mar, Universidad de Oriente, Nueva Esparta, Apartado Postal 147, Calle La Marina, Boca de Río, Isla de Margarita 6304, Venezuela
| | - Ana Carolina Castillo-Navarro
- Secretaria de Recursos Naturales y Ambiente (CESCCO/SERNA), Barrio El Morazán frente a Central de Bomberos, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Miguel Gómez Batista
- Centro de Estudios Ambientales de Cienfuegos (CEAC), AP 5. Ciudad Nuclear, Cienfuegos CP 59350, Cuba
| | | | - Marc Metian
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Marine Environment Laboratories-Radioecology Laboratory (REL), 4a, Quai Antoine 1er, MC 98000, Monaco
| | - Libia Hascibe Pérez-Bernal
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Joel Montes Camarena s/n, Col. Playa Sur, 82040 Mazatlán, Mexico
| | - Carlos M Alonso-Hernández
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Marine Environment Laboratories-Radioecology Laboratory (REL), 4a, Quai Antoine 1er, MC 98000, Monaco
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4
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Jung S, Besnard L, Li ML, R Reinfelder J, Kim E, Kwon SY, Kim JH. Interspecific Variations in the Internal Mercury Isotope Dynamics of Antarctic Penguins: Implications for Biomonitoring. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6349-6358. [PMID: 38531013 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) biomonitoring requires a precise understanding of the internal processes contributing to disparities between the Hg sources in the environment and the Hg measured in the biota. In this study, we investigated the use of Hg stable isotopes to trace Hg accumulation in Adélie and emperor penguin chicks from four breeding colonies in Antarctica. Interspecific variation of Δ199Hg in penguin chicks reflects the distinct foraging habitats and Hg exposures in adults. Chicks at breeding sites where adult penguins predominantly consumed mesopelagic prey showed relatively lower Δ199Hg values than chicks that were primarily fed epipelagic krill. Substantial δ202Hg variations in chick tissues were observed in both species (Adélie: -0.11 to 1.13‰, emperor: -0.27 to 1.15‰), whereas only emperor penguins exhibited the lowest δ202Hg in the liver and the highest in the feathers. Our results indicate that tissue-specific δ202Hg variations and their positive correlations with % MeHg resulted from MeHg demethylation in the liver and kidneys of emperor penguin chicks, whereas Adélie penguin chicks showed different internal responses depending on their exposure to dietary MeHg. This study highlights the importance of considering intra- and interspecific variations in adult foraging ecology and MeHg demethylation when selecting penguin chicks for Hg biomonitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saebom Jung
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
| | - Lucien Besnard
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
| | - Mi-Ling Li
- School of Marine Science and Policy, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - John R Reinfelder
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, United States
| | - Eunhee Kim
- Citizens' Institute for Environmental Studies (CIES), Seoul 03039, South Korea
| | - Sae Yun Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
- Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Incheon 21983, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Kim
- Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI), 26 Songdomirae-ro, Incheon 21990, South Korea
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5
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Nunes Neto OG, Dias SR, Albuquerque FEA, Miranda M, Lopez-Alonso M, Oliveira RB, Pinto D, Minervino AHH. Comparative analysis between mercury levels in fish tissues evaluated using direct mercury analyzer and inductively plasma-coupled mass spectrometer. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 351:141146. [PMID: 38211792 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141146] [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: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Recent ecotoxicological studies have indicated mercury (Hg) contamination in aquatic ecosystems in the Amazon Basin. Although Hg contamination can be associated with small-scale gold mining, the soils of the Amazon region have naturally high Hg concentrations, and can be transported to aquatic ecosystems via deforestation and mining activities. Biomagnification of Hg can pose risks to the local human population; therefore, its concentration in fish tissues must be monitored consistently. Fast and sensitive Hg determination is required for continuously monitoring ecosystems impacted by mineral exploration. The direct mercury analyzer (DMA-80) is widely used for determining total Hg levels in tissue samples; it is fast and cost-effective, without requiring sample preparation. Here, we determined the sensitivity and specificity of Hg detection accomplished using DMA-80, and whether these results are reliable compared to those obtained using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS), which is the gold standard. We obtained 106 paired dried samples of muscle tissue from fish species occupying different trophic levels in the Lower Amazon region, and analyzed them using both equipment (DMA-80 and ICP-MS). The results obtained using DMA-80 had an overall Hg mean of 1.90 ± 0.18 mg/kg which was higher (p < 0.05) than the mean of those obtained using ICP-MS (1.55 ± 0.13 mg/kg). Linear regression analysis comparing the Hg levels obtained using both devices was within the 95% prediction interval, and a high coefficient of correlation showed agreement between the devices (r = 0.979; 0.069 to 0.986, 95% CI). Bland-Altman analysis showed that DMA-80 had a positive bias of 6.5% in relation to ICP-MS, which is more evident in samples with high Hg concentrations. DMA-80 was efficient in determining whether the Hg levels exceeded the maximum allowed levels required by the European Union, USA, and Brazil, showing a specificity and sensitivity of above 95%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvaldo Gato Nunes Neto
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil; Ph.D. Program in Society, Nature and Development, PPGSND, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil
| | - Salatiel Ribeiro Dias
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil; Ph.D. Program in Society, Nature and Development, PPGSND, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil
| | - Fábio Edir Amaral Albuquerque
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil; Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Santiago de Compostela, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Marta Miranda
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Faculty, University of Santiago de Compostela, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Marta Lopez-Alonso
- Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Santiago de Compostela, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Ricardo Bezerra Oliveira
- Bioprospecting and Experimental Biology Laboratory. Institute of Education Sciences. Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA. Av. Marechal Rondon s/n, 68040-070, Brazil.
| | - Diana Pinto
- Universidad de la Costa, CUC, Calle 58 # 55-66, Barranquilla, 080002, Colombia
| | - Antonio Humberto Hamad Minervino
- Laboratory of Animal Health, LARSANA, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil; Ph.D. Program in Society, Nature and Development, PPGSND, Federal University of Western Pará, UFOPA, Rua Vera Paz, s/n, Salé, CEP 68040-255, Santarém, PA, Brazil.
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Vreedzaam A, Ouboter P, Hindori-Mohangoo AD, Lepak R, Rumschlag S, Janssen S, Landburg G, Shankar A, Zijlmans W, Lichtveld MY, Wickliffe JK. Contrasting mercury contamination scenarios and site susceptibilities confound fish mercury burdens in Suriname, South America. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 336:122447. [PMID: 37648055 PMCID: PMC10756560 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
In Suriname, mercury (Hg) use has recently increased because of gold mining, which has put fish-reliant communities (e.g., Indigenous and Tribal) at risk of enhanced Hg exposure through the riverine fish these communities consume. To quantify how the magnitude of these risks change according to location and time, we measured total mercury (HgT) in fish at sites downstream and upstream of an artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) operation in 2004-2005 and in 2017-2018. We tested whether fish HgT burdens over dynamic ranges were increased. Surprisingly, our findings did not support broadly increased fish Hg burden over time or that proximity to ASGM was diagnostic to fish HgT-burden. Subsequently, we elected to test the HgT stable isotope ratios on a set of freshly collected 2020 fish to determine whether differences in Hg source and delivery pathways might cofound results. We found that remote unmined sites were more susceptible to gaseous elemental Hg deposition pathways, leading to enhanced risk of contamination, whereas ASGM proximate sites were not. These results highlight that elemental mercury releases from ASGM practices may have significant impact on fish-reliant communities that are far removed from ASGM point source contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arioené Vreedzaam
- Amazon Sustainable Landscapes Program, United Nations Development Programme Suriname, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | - Paul Ouboter
- Institute of Neotropical Wildlife and Environmental Studies, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | | | - Ryan Lepak
- US Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development, Duluth, MN USA
| | - Samantha Rumschlag
- US Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development, Duluth, MN USA
| | - Sarah Janssen
- U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, USGS Mercury Research Laboratory, Madison, WI 53726, USA
| | - Gwen Landburg
- Environmental Laboratory, Anton de Kom University of Suriname, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | - Arti Shankar
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wilco Zijlmans
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Anton de Kom University of Suriname, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | | | - Jeffrey K Wickliffe
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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7
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Gomes PR, Pestana IA, de Almeida MG, de Rezende CE. The Paraíba do Sul River Basin and its coastal area as a study model of the mercury cycle: A meta-analytical review of three decades of research. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132442. [PMID: 37683351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
The Paraíba do Sul River (PSR) Basin is a crucial drainage basin in Southeast Brazil, being the most industrialized and densely populated region in the country. Over the last three decades, the basin has been the subject of numerous studies due to its long history of mercury (Hg) contamination. This makes the PSR Basin an excellent model to evaluate Hg cycling, which is a priority for signatory countries of the Minamata Convention, which includes Brazil. This review compiled data on Hg from five environmental compartments (animals, plants, sediment, suspended particulate matter (SPM), and water), three different sectors (upper, middle, and lower) and five different ecosystems (reservoir, mangrove, fluvial, estuarine, and coastal) from 60 published studies, aiming to understand the Hg cycling through meta-analyses. The highest concentrations of Hg were observed in the upper and middle sectors of the basin, which are areas with high industrialization and urbanization levels. Among the evaluated ecosystems, hydropower reservoirs showed the highest medians and were also frequent in the upper and middle portions of the PSR basin. Over the years, all environmental compartments showed a decline in Hg concentrations due to the implementation of federal and state environmental policies. The main source of Hg for the basin was Hg-rich soils from past activities (such as artisanal small-scale gold mining and the use of organomercurial fungicides in sugarcane plantations). These results can assist decision-makers in the management of the basin's ecosystems and can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of implementing the Minamata Convention in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipe Ribeiro Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000 - Parque Califórnia - CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Inácio Abreu Pestana
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000 - Parque Califórnia - CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Gomes de Almeida
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000 - Parque Califórnia - CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos Eduardo de Rezende
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000 - Parque Califórnia - CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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8
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Holbert SS, Bryan CE, Korsmeyer KE, Jensen BA. Mercury accumulation and biomarkers of exposure in two popular recreational fishes in Hawaiian waters. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 32:1010-1023. [PMID: 37491684 PMCID: PMC10622350 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-023-02684-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) exposure has not been examined in many recreational nearshore fish species that are commonly consumed around the Hawaiian Islands. Specific gene transcripts, such as metallothionein (MET) and thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), can be used to examine Hg exposure responses in aquatic organisms. This study measured total mercury (THg) in four species from two groups of Hawaiian nearshore fishes: giant trevally (Caranx ignobilis, n = 13), bluefin trevally (C. melampygus, n = 4), sharp jaw bonefish (Albula virgata, n = 2), and round jaw bonefish (A. glossodonta, n = 19). Total Hg accumulation and abundance profiles of MET and TrxR were evaluated for muscle, liver, and kidney tissues. Total Hg in round jaw bonefish and giant trevally tissues accumulated with length and calculated age. In round jaw bonefish tissues, mean THg was greater in kidney (1156 ng/g wet mass (wm)) than liver (339 ng/g wm) and muscle (330 ng/g wm). Giant trevally muscle (187 ng/g wm) and liver (277 ng/g wm) mean THg did not differ significantly. Fish species in this study were compared to commercial and local fish species with state and federal muscle tissue consumption advisories based on THg benchmarks developed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Both bonefishes had mean muscle THg that exceeded benchmarks suggesting consumption advisories should be considered. MET transcript in round jaw bonefish kidney tissue and kidney THg exhibited a marginally significant positive correlation, while TrxR transcript in liver tissue negatively correlated with increasing liver THg. These results contribute to our understanding of Hg exposure associated health effects in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Shaw Holbert
- College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Hawaii Pacific University, Kaneohe, HI, USA
| | - Colleen E Bryan
- Chemical Sciences Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Keith E Korsmeyer
- College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Hawaii Pacific University, Kaneohe, HI, USA
| | - Brenda A Jensen
- College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Hawaii Pacific University, Kaneohe, HI, USA
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9
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Piro AJ, Taipale SJ, Laiho HM, Eerola ES, Kahilainen KK. Fish muscle mercury concentration and bioaccumulation fluctuate year-round - Insights from cyprinid and percid fishes in a humic boreal lake. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116187. [PMID: 37224941 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116187] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Boreal lakes demonstrate pronounced seasonality, where the warm open-water season and subsequent cold and ice-covered season dominate natural cycles. While fish muscle total mercury concentration (mg/kg) [THg] is well documented in open-water summer months, there is limited knowledge on the ice-covered winter and spring mercury dynamics in fish from various foraging and thermal guilds. This year-round study tested how seasonality influences [THg] and its bioaccumulation in three percids, perch (Perca fluviatilis), pikeperch (Sander lucioperca), ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernua), and three cyprinids, roach (Rutilus rutilus), bleak (Alburnus alburnus), and bream (Abramis brama) in deep boreal mesotrophic Lake Pääjärvi, southern Finland. Fish were sampled and [THg] was quantified in the dorsal muscle during four seasons in this humic lake. Bioaccumulation regression slopes (mean ± STD, 0.039 ± 0.030, range 0.013-0.114) between [THg] and fish length were steepest during and after spawning and shallowest during autumn and winter for all species. Fish [THg] was significantly higher in the winter-spring than summer-autumn in all percids, however, not in cyprinids. The lowest [THg] was observed in summer and autumn, likely due to recovery from spring spawning, somatic growth and lipid accumulation. Fish [THg] was best described by multiple regression models (R2adj: 52-76%) which included total length and varying combinations of seasonally changing environmental (water temperature, total carbon, total nitrogen, and oxygen saturation) and biotic factors (gonadosomatic index, and sex) in all species. The seasonal variation in [THg] and bioaccumulation slopes across multiple species suggests a need for standardized sampling seasons in long-term monitoring to avoid any seasonality bias. From the fisheries and fish consumption perspective in seasonally ice-covered lakes, monitoring of both winter-spring and summer-autumn would improve knowledge of [THg] variation in fish muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Piro
- Lammi Biological Station, University of Helsinki, Pääjärventie 320, FI-16900, Lammi, Finland.
| | - S J Taipale
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (YA), FI-40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - H M Laiho
- Lammi Biological Station, University of Helsinki, Pääjärventie 320, FI-16900, Lammi, Finland
| | - E S Eerola
- Lammi Biological Station, University of Helsinki, Pääjärventie 320, FI-16900, Lammi, Finland
| | - K K Kahilainen
- Lammi Biological Station, University of Helsinki, Pääjärventie 320, FI-16900, Lammi, Finland
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10
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von Hellfeld R, Gade C, Koppel DJ, Walters WJ, Kho F, Hastings A. An approach to assess potential environmental mercury release, food web bioaccumulation, and human dietary methylmercury uptake from decommissioning offshore oil and gas infrastructure. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 452:131298. [PMID: 36996541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Subsea pipelines carrying well fluids from hydrocarbon fields accumulate mercury. If the pipelines (after cleaning and flushing) are abandoned in situ, their degradation may release residual mercury into the environment. To justify pipeline abandonment, decommissioning plans include environmental risk assessments to determine the potential risk of environmental mercury. These risks are informed by environmental quality guideline values (EQGVs) governing concentrations in sediment or water above which mercury toxicity may occur. However, these guidelines may not consider e.g., the bioaccumulation potential of methylated mercury. Therefore, EQGVs may not protect humans from exposure if applied as the sole basis for risk assessments. This paper outlines a process to assess the EQGVs' protectiveness from mercury bioaccumulation, providing preliminary insights to questions including how to (1) determine pipeline threshold concentrations, (2) model marine mercury bioaccumulation, and (3) determine exceedance of the methylmercury tolerable weekly intake (TWI) for humans. The approach is demonstrated with a generic example using simplifications to describe mercury behaviour and a model food web. In this example, release scenarios equivalent to the EQGVs resulted in increased marine organism mercury tissue concentrations by 0-33 %, with human dietary methylmercury intake increasing 0-21 %. This suggests that existing guidelines may not be protective of biomagnification in all circumstances. The outlined approach could inform environmental risk assessments for asset-specific release scenarios but must be parameterised to reflect local environmental conditions when tailored to local factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca von Hellfeld
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences, Aberdeen, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, UK.
| | - Christoph Gade
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences, Aberdeen, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, UK
| | - Darren J Koppel
- Curtin Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Australian Institute of Marine Science, Perth, Australia
| | - William J Walters
- Ken and Mary Alice Lindquist Department of Nuclear Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA
| | - Fenny Kho
- Curtin Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Curtin Corrosion Centre, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Astley Hastings
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences, Aberdeen, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, UK
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11
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Basu N, Bastiansz A, Dórea JG, Fujimura M, Horvat M, Shroff E, Weihe P, Zastenskaya I. Our evolved understanding of the human health risks of mercury. AMBIO 2023; 52:877-896. [PMID: 36790578 PMCID: PMC10073381 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01831-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a chemical of health concern worldwide that is now being acted upon through the Minamata Convention. Operationalizing the Convention and tracking its effectiveness requires empathy of the diversity and variation of mercury exposure and risk in populations worldwide. As part of the health plenary for the 15th International Conference on Mercury as a Global Pollutant (ICMGP), this review paper details how scientific understandings have evolved over time, from tragic poisoning events in the mid-twentieth century to important epidemiological studies in the late-twentieth century in the Seychelles and Faroe Islands, the Arctic and Amazon. Entering the twenty-first century, studies on diverse source-exposure scenarios (e.g., ASGM, amalgams, contaminated sites, cosmetics, electronic waste) from across global regions have expanded understandings and exemplified the need to consider socio-environmental variables and local contexts when conducting health studies. We conclude with perspectives on next steps for mercury health research in the post-Minamata Convention era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niladri Basu
- McGill University, 204 CINE Building, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Montreal, QC H9X 3V9 Canada
| | - Ashley Bastiansz
- McGill University, 204 CINE Building, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Montreal, QC H9X 3V9 Canada
| | - José G. Dórea
- Faculdade de Ciencias da Saude, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, 70919-970 Brazil
| | - Masatake Fujimura
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Kumamoto 867-0008 Japan
| | - Milena Horvat
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Emelyn Shroff
- Public Health Authority of Seychelles, Mont Fleuri, Mahe, Seychelles
| | - Pál Weihe
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, Sigmundargøta 5, 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Irina Zastenskaya
- WHO European Centre for Environment and Health, Platz Der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany
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12
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Rowland FE, Muths E, Eagles-Smith CA, Stricker CA, Kraus JM, Harrington RA, Walters DM. Complex Life Histories Alter Patterns of Mercury Exposure and Accumulation in a Pond-Breeding Amphibian. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:4133-4142. [PMID: 36848500 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c04896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Quantifying how contaminants change across life cycles of species that undergo metamorphosis is critical to assessing organismal risk, particularly for consumers. Pond-breeding amphibians can dominate aquatic animal biomass as larvae and are terrestrial prey as juveniles and adults. Thus, amphibians can be vectors of mercury exposure in both aquatic and terrestrial food webs. However, it is still unclear how mercury concentrations are affected by exogenous (e.g., habitat or diet) vs endogenous factors (e.g., catabolism during hibernation) as amphibians undergo large diet shifts and periods of fasting during ontogeny. We measured total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), and isotopic compositions (δ 13C, δ15N) in boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata) across five life stages in two Colorado (USA) metapopulations. We found large differences in concentrations and percent MeHg (of THg) among life stages. Frog MeHg concentrations peaked during metamorphosis and hibernation coinciding with the most energetically demanding life cycle stages. Indeed, life history transitions involving periods of fasting coupled with high metabolic demands led to large increases in mercury concentrations. The endogenous processes of metamorphosis and hibernation resulted in MeHg bioamplification, thus decoupling it from the light isotopic proxies of diet and trophic position. These step changes are not often considered in conventional expectations of how MeHg concentrations within organisms are assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya E Rowland
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
| | - Erin Muths
- Fort Collins Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526, United States
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Craig A Stricker
- Fort Collins Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins, Colorado 80526, United States
| | - Johanna M Kraus
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
| | - Rachel A Harrington
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8, Denver, Colorado 80202, United States
| | - David M Walters
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
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13
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Lepak RF, Janssen SE, Ogorek JM, Dillman CB, Hoffman JC, Tate MT, McIntyre PB. Can preserved museum specimens be used to reconstruct fish mercury burden and sources through time? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LETTERS 2023; 10:165-171. [PMID: 38357329 PMCID: PMC10866153 DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.3c00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
To evaluate the utility of preserved fishes for reconstructing historical and spatial patterns of mercury (Hg) exposure, we experimentally tested the stability of Hg concentrations and Hg stable isotope ratios under standard museum practices of specimen preservation. We found that loss of unidentified constituents during preservation increased Hg concentrations in fish muscle. Low-Hg fish reared in the laboratory were susceptible to exogenous contamination with inorganic mercury (iHg) when preservative fluids were intentionally spiked or iHg leached passively from contaminated wild fishes in the same container. This contamination impacted Hg isotope values of total Hg, but the conservative nature of methylmercury allows us to quantitatively correct for iHg contamination. Our findings validate the potential to use fishes from the world's museums to generate spatiotemporal baselines for the Minamata Convention on Mercury, but we recommend a set of precautions to maximize inference strength. Selecting the largest specimens of a target species helps dilute any iHg contamination. Specimens should be drawn from lots that were not comingled with fishes from other collections to minimize risk of iHg transfer among fish with different contamination histories. Finally, focusing on low-lipid species will enhance the comparability of Hg concentrations between historical and contemporary collections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan F. Lepak
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, 6201 Congdon Blvd, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
| | - Sarah E. Janssen
- U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, USGS Mercury Research Laboratory, 1 Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison, WI 53726, USA
| | - Jacob M. Ogorek
- U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, USGS Mercury Research Laboratory, 1 Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison, WI 53726, USA
| | - Casey B. Dillman
- Museum of Vertebrates, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, E145 Corson Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Joel C. Hoffman
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, 6201 Congdon Blvd, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
| | - Michael T. Tate
- U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, USGS Mercury Research Laboratory, 1 Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison, WI 53726, USA
| | - Peter B. McIntyre
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Fernow Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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14
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Condini MV, Malinowski CR, Hoeinghaus DJ, Harried BL, Roberts AP, Soulen BK, Roark KJ, Khursigara AJ, Fischer LG, Possamai B, Hostim-Silva M, Garcia AM. Spatial analysis of mercury and stable isotopes in the vulnerable Dusky Grouper Epinephelus marginatus along the Brazilian coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 187:114526. [PMID: 36621302 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a contaminant of global concern due to its damaging toxicological effects on organisms. For the vulnerable Dusky Grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) off the coast of Brazil, we investigated: i) spatial patterns in muscle tissue total mercury (THg) contamination; ii) the relationship between muscle THg concentrations and total length iii) the relationship between muscle THg and stable isotopes; and iv) THg concentrations among muscle, liver, and ovary tissues. Out of 134 fish sampled, 21.8 % were higher than 0.5 mg/kg wet weight (above the safe limit for human consumption). THg concentrations increased toward lower latitudes, but an opposite pattern was observed for δ13C and δ15N with decreased values toward lower latitudes. There were significant differences in THg concentration among the three tissues. Results of Hg concentrations are useful for understanding the potential adverse effects on the health of this vulnerable species and to serve as a guide to human consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario V Condini
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Peixes Marinhos-LEPMAR, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, BR-101, km 60 Litorâneo, CEP: 29932-540 São Mateus, ES, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Ambiental (PPGOAM), Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari, 514, Goiabeiras, CEP: 29055-460 Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Christopher R Malinowski
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Ocean First Institute, 51 Shoreland Drive, Key Largo, FL 33037, USA
| | - David J Hoeinghaus
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310559, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Brittany L Harried
- Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 1111 E Rollins St., 302 ABNR, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Aaron P Roberts
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310559, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Brianne K Soulen
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310559, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Kathleen J Roark
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310559, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Alexis J Khursigara
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310559, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Luciano G Fischer
- Instituto de Biodiversidade e Sustentabilidade (NUPEM), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. São José do Barreto 764, 27965-045 Macaé, RJ, Brazil
| | - Bianca Possamai
- Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory, University of Vermont, 3 College St., Burlington, VT 05401, USA
| | - Maurício Hostim-Silva
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Peixes Marinhos-LEPMAR, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, BR-101, km 60 Litorâneo, CEP: 29932-540 São Mateus, ES, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Ambiental (PPGOAM), Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari, 514, Goiabeiras, CEP: 29055-460 Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Alexandre M Garcia
- Laboratório de Ictiologia, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Av. Itália Km 8, Carreiros, 96.201-900, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
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15
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Jędruch A, Falkowska L, Saniewska D, Grajewska A, Bełdowska M, Meissner W, Kalisińska E, Duzinkiewicz K, Pacyna JM. Mercury in the Polish part of the Baltic Sea: A response to decreased atmospheric deposition and changing environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 186:114426. [PMID: 36473245 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Our review of the literature showed that since the beginning of the socio-economic transformation in Poland in the 1990s, the downward trend in Hg emissions and its deposition in the southern Baltic Sea was followed by a simultaneous decrease in Hg levels in water and marine plants and animals. Hg concentrations in the biota lowered to values that pose no or low risk to wildlife and seafood consumers. However, in the first decade of the current century, a divergence between these two trends became apparent and Hg concentrations in fish, herring and cod, began to rise. Therefore, increasing emission-independent anthropogenic pressures, which affect Hg uptake and trophodynamics, remobilization of land-based and marine legacy Hg deposits, as well as the structure of the food web, can undermine the chances of reducing both the Hg pool in the marine environment and human Hg exposure from fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Jędruch
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland; Polish Academy of Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Powstańców Warszawy 55, 81-712 Sopot, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Dominika Saniewska
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Grajewska
- Institute of Meteorology and Water Management - National Research Institute, Jerzego Waszyngtona 42, 81-342 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Magdalena Bełdowska
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Włodzimierz Meissner
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Biology, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Kalisińska
- Pomeranian Medical University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Medicine, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Kazimierz Duzinkiewicz
- Gdańsk University of Technology, Faculty of Electrical and Control Engineering, Gabriela Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Józef M Pacyna
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Energy and Fuels, Adama Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
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16
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Caicedo-Rivas G, Salas-Moreno M, Marrugo-Negrete J. Health Risk Assessment for Human Exposure to Heavy Metals via Food Consumption in Inhabitants of Middle Basin of the Atrato River in the Colombian Pacific. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:435. [PMID: 36612759 PMCID: PMC9819723 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The Atrato river basin is one of the world's most biodiverse areas; however, it is highly impacted by mercury gold mining, which generates air, water, and soil pollution. (1) Background: The concentrations of persistent heavy metal pollutants, mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As) in the fish, fruits, and vegetables most consumed by the riverside inhabitants of the middle basin of the Atrato river represent a danger to public health; (2) Methods: A total of 154 samples of different fruits and vegetables and 440 samples of fish were analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. A sample of 446 people were surveyed to evaluate food consumption and carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk; (4) Conclusions: High concentrations of As, Hg, Pb, and Cd were identified in fish, fruits-tubers, and vegetables-stems commonly consumed by inhabitants of the middle basin of the Atrato River, which exceeded the Codex limits and the limits established by the WHO/FAO, especially for carnivorous fish species. A high carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk was evidenced amongst inhabitants of the middle basin of the Atrato River due to the consumption of fish contaminated with high concentrations of As, MeHg, and THg. The risk due to the consumption of vegetables was very low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Caicedo-Rivas
- Biosistematic Research Group, Biology Department, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica Del Chocó, Quibdó 270002, Chocó, Colombia
| | - Manuel Salas-Moreno
- Biosistematic Research Group, Biology Department, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica Del Chocó, Quibdó 270002, Chocó, Colombia
| | - José Marrugo-Negrete
- Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad de Córdoba, Carrera 6 No. 76-103, Montería 230002, Córdoba, Colombia
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17
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Chen B, Dong S. Mercury Contamination in Fish and Its Effects on the Health of Pregnant Women and Their Fetuses, and Guidance for Fish Consumption-A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15929. [PMID: 36498005 PMCID: PMC9739465 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
As a principal source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (3FAs), which provide vital health benefits, fish consumption also comes with the additional benefit of being rich in diverse nutrients (e.g., vitamins and selenium, high in proteins and low in saturated fats, etc.). The consumption of fish and other seafood products has been significantly promoted universally, given that fish is an important part of a healthy diet. However, many documents indicate that fish may also be a potential source of exposure to chemical pollutants, especially mercury (Hg) (one of the top ten chemicals or groups of chemicals of concern worldwide), and this is a grave concern for many consumers, especially pregnant women, as this could affect their fetuses. In this review, the definition of Hg and its forms and mode of entrance into fish are introduced in detail and, moreover, the bio-accumulation of Hg in fish and its toxicity and action mechanisms on fish and humans, especially considering the health of pregnant women and their fetuses after the daily intake of fish, are also reviewed. Finally, some feasible and constructive suggestions and guidelines are recommended for the specific group of pregnant women for the consumption of balanced and appropriate fish diets in a rational manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bojian Chen
- Food Science and Engineering, Haide College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Shiyuan Dong
- College of Food Science and Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
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18
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Mills N, Weber MJ, Cashatt D, Pierce CL, Dixon P. Factors related to fish mercury concentrations in Iowa lakes. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 194:721. [PMID: 36056241 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10427-8] [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: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems is a global concern due to the health risks of consuming contaminated fishes. Fish mercury concentrations are influenced by a range of biotic and abiotic factors that vary among regions, but these complex interactions are difficult to disentangle. We collected bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), white and black crappie (Pomoxis annularis; P. nigromaculatus), largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), walleye (Sander vitreus), muskellunge (Esox masquinongy), and northern pike (E. lucius) from waterbodies throughout Iowa and analyzed them for mercury concentrations. We used land use, water chemistry, and fish characteristics to explain variation in mercury concentrations among and within systems. Mercury concentrations were generally low and undetectable (< 0.05 mg/kg) in 43% of fish analyzed. Detected mercury concentrations were highest in largemouth bass, muskellunge, northern pike, and walleye, lowest in black and white crappie and bluegill, and positively related to fish length and age. Mean lake depth, pH, watershed area to lake area ratio, and percent of watershed as open water were positively related to fish mercury concentrations whereas lake area and percent of watershed as agriculture, developed, forested, and grassland were negatively related to mercury concentrations. Additionally, mercury concentrations were higher in shallow natural lakes compared to other lake types. Our results indicate fish mercury concentrations are lower in Iowa lakes compared to other regions. Models we developed in this study can be used to identify other waterbodies that may have elevated mercury concentrations that can guide fish mercury monitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Mills
- Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Iowa State University, 339 Science Hall II, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Michael J Weber
- Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Iowa State University, 339 Science Hall II, Ames, IA, 50011, USA.
| | - Darcy Cashatt
- Iowa Department of Natural Resources, 15053 Hatchery Place, Moravia, IA, USA
| | - Clay L Pierce
- Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Iowa State University, 339 Science Hall II, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Philip Dixon
- Department of Statistics, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
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19
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Salazar-Camacho C, Salas-Moreno M, Marrugo-Madrid S, Paternina-Uribe R, Marrugo-Negrete J, Díez S. A human health risk assessment of methylmercury, arsenic and metals in a tropical river basin impacted by gold mining in the Colombian Pacific region. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 212:113120. [PMID: 35339468 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Atrato River basin is one of the most biodiverse areas worldwide, and paradoxically, it is one of the sites in Colombia with the highest environmental impact from gold mining. This study assessed the distribution of Hg, As, Pb, and Cd in 47 fish species (n = 1372) and the accumulative human health risk in inhabitants (n = 2325) from 13 municipalities located along the Atrato River basin. The results revealed that Hg and As in fish present a high potential human health risk based on their mean concentrations. Estimated daily intake (EDI) calculations showed that humans could present detrimental health effects, while that target hazard quotient (THQ) above 1 showed that the exposed population might experience noncarcinogenic health risks, mainly from the accumulative effects of Hg (80.4%) and As (18.2%). The species that would most affect the health of the inhabitants are carnivorous H. malabaricus, A. pardalis, P. schultzi, R. quelen, and C. kraussii, which are among the fourteen most consumed in the region. These species had values of estimated weekly intake (EWI) above the provisional tolerable weekly intake thresholds for MeHg (PTWI of 1.6 and 3.2 μg/kg bw/week for adults and children, respectively) in 7 of the 13 localities evaluated. According to the surveys, the calculated weekly allowable fish amount (MFW) showed that carnivorous fish may generate adverse effects on the consumers because the allowed MeHg is about 2 times higher than the upper reference limit. Other results indicate a significant carcinogenic health risk, mainly from As, in 8 of the 13 localities evaluated. Due to the high rates of unsatisfied basic needs and the monetary poverty in the region, the possibility that inhabitants can replace fish as the principal source of protein is low. Therefore, a food guidance is required to avoid risks, obtain nutritional benefits, and sustain fish populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Salazar-Camacho
- Biosistematic Research Group, Biology Department, Faculty of Naturals Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica Del Chocó, Quibdó, Colombia
| | - Manuel Salas-Moreno
- Biosistematic Research Group, Biology Department, Faculty of Naturals Sciences, Universidad Tecnológica Del Chocó, Quibdó, Colombia
| | - Siday Marrugo-Madrid
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, E-08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberth Paternina-Uribe
- Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad de Córdoba, Carrera 6 No. 76-103, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - José Marrugo-Negrete
- Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad de Córdoba, Carrera 6 No. 76-103, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia.
| | - Sergi Díez
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, E-08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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20
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Yang YH, Kwon SY, Tsui MTK, Motta LC, Washburn SJ, Park J, Kim MS, Shin KH. Ecological Traits of Fish for Mercury Biomonitoring: Insights from Compound-Specific Nitrogen and Stable Mercury Isotopes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:10808-10817. [PMID: 35852377 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c02532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We coupled compound-specific isotopic analyses of nitrogen (N) in amino acids (δ15NGlu, δ15NPhe) and mercury stable isotopes (δ202Hg, Δ199Hg) to quantify ecological traits governing the concentration, variability, and source of Hg in largemouth bass (LB) and pike gudgeon (PG) across four rivers, South Korea. PG displayed uniform Hg concentration (56-137 ng/g), trophic position (TPcorrected; 2.6-3.0, n = 9), and N isotopes in the source amino acid (δ15NPhe; 7-13‰), consistent with their specialist feeding on benthic insects. LB showed wide ranges in Hg concentration (45-693 ng/g), TPcorrected (2.8-3.8, n = 14), and δ15NPhe (1.3-16‰), reflecting their opportunistic feeding behavior. Hg sources assessed using Hg isotopes reveal low and uniform Δ199Hg in PG (0.20-0.49‰), similar to Δ199Hg reported in sediments. LB displayed site-specific δ202Hg (-0.61 to -0.04‰) and Δ199Hg (0.53-1.09‰). At the Yeongsan River, LB displayed elevated Δ199Hg and low δ15NPhe, consistent with Hg and N sourced from the atmosphere. LB at the Geum River displayed low Δ199Hg and high δ15NPhe, both similar to the isotope values of anthropogenic sources. Our results suggest that a specialist fish (PG) with consistent ecological traits and Hg concentration is an effective bioindicator species for Hg. When accounting for Hg sources, however, LB better captures site-specific Hg sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yo Han Yang
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
| | - Sae Yun Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
- Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-Ro, Yeonsu-Gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea
| | - Martin Tsz-Ki Tsui
- School of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, South Block, Science Centre, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Laura C Motta
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York at Buffalo, 312 Natural Sciences Complex, Buffalo, New York 14260-3000, United States
| | - Spencer J Washburn
- Environmental Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Jaeseon Park
- Environmental Measurement & Analysis Center, National Institute of Environmental Research, 42 Hwangyong-Ro, Seo-Gu, Incheon 22689, South Korea
| | - Min-Seob Kim
- Environmental Measurement & Analysis Center, National Institute of Environmental Research, 42 Hwangyong-Ro, Seo-Gu, Incheon 22689, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Hoon Shin
- Department of Marine Sciences and Convergent Technology, Hanyang University, 55 Hanyangdaehak-Ro, Sangnok-Gu, Ansan 15588, South Korea
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21
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Li ML, Gillies EJ, Briner R, Hoover CA, Sora KJ, Loseto LL, Walters WJ, Cheung WWL, Giang A. Investigating the dynamics of methylmercury bioaccumulation in the Beaufort Sea shelf food web: a modeling perspective. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2022; 24:1010-1025. [PMID: 35748915 DOI: 10.1039/d2em00108j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
High levels of methylmercury (MeHg) have been reported in Arctic marine biota, posing health risks to wildlife and human beings. Although MeHg concentrations of some Arctic species have been monitored for decades, the key environmental and ecological factors driving temporal trends of MeHg are largely unclear. We develop an ecosystem-based MeHg bioaccumulation model for the Beaufort Sea shelf (BSS) using the Ecotracer module of Ecopath with Ecosim, and apply the model to explore how MeHg toxicokinetics and food web trophodynamics affect bioaccumulation in the BSS food web. We show that a food web model with complex trophodynamics and relatively simple MeHg model parametrization can capture the observed biomagnification pattern of the BSS. While both benthic and pelagic production are important for transferring MeHg to fish and marine mammals, simulations suggest that benthic organisms are primarily responsible for driving the high trophic magnification factor in the BSS. We illustrate ways of combining empirical observations and modelling experiments to generate hypotheses about factors affecting food web bioaccumulation, including the MeHg elimination rate, trophodynamics, and species migration behavior. The results indicate that population dynamics rather than MeHg elimination may determine population-wide concentrations for fish and lower trophic level organisms, and cause large differences in concentrations between species at similar trophic levels. This research presents a new tool and lays the groundwork for future research to assess the pathways of global environmental changes in MeHg bioaccumulation in Arctic ecosystems in the past and the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Ling Li
- School of Marine Science and Policy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA.
- Institute for Resources, Environment & Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Emma J Gillies
- Institute for Resources, Environment & Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Renea Briner
- School of Marine Science and Policy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA.
| | - Carie A Hoover
- Marine Affairs Program, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Kristen J Sora
- Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lisa L Loseto
- Freshwater Institute, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Centre for Earth Observation Science, Department Environment and Geography, Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - William J Walters
- Ken and Mary Alice Lindquist Department of Nuclear Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - William W L Cheung
- Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Amanda Giang
- Institute for Resources, Environment & Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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22
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Li ML, Kwon SY, Poulin BA, Tsui MTK, Motta LC, Cho M. Internal Dynamics and Metabolism of Mercury in Biota: A Review of Insights from Mercury Stable Isotopes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:9182-9195. [PMID: 35723432 PMCID: PMC9261262 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c08631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring mercury (Hg) levels in biota is considered an important objective for the effectiveness evaluation of the Minamata Convention. While many studies have characterized Hg levels in organisms at multiple spatiotemporal scales, concentration analyses alone often cannot provide sufficient information on the Hg exposure sources and internal processes occurring within biota. Here, we review the decadal scientific progress of using Hg isotopes to understand internal processes that modify the speciation, transport, and fate of Hg within biota. Mercury stable isotopes have emerged as a powerful tool for assessing Hg sources and biogeochemical processes in natural environments. A better understanding of the tissue location and internal mechanisms leading to Hg isotope change is key to assessing its use for biomonitoring. We synthesize the current understanding and uncertainties of internal processes leading to Hg isotope fractionation in a variety of biota, in a sequence of better to less studied organisms (i.e., birds, marine mammals, humans, fish, plankton, and invertebrates). This review discusses the opportunities and challenges of using certain forms of biota for Hg source monitoring and the need to further elucidate the physiological mechanisms that control the accumulation, distribution, and toxicity of Hg in biota by coupling new techniques with Hg stable isotopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Ling Li
- School
of Marine Science and Policy, University
of Delaware, 201 Robinson Hall, Newark, Delaware 19716, United
States
| | - Sae Yun Kwon
- Division
of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro,
Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
- Institute
for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-Ro, Yeonsu-Gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea
| | - Brett A. Poulin
- Department
of Environmental Toxicology, University
of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Martin Tsz-Ki Tsui
- School
of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Laura C. Motta
- Department
of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, 359 Natural Sciences Complex, Buffalo, New York 14260-3000, United States
| | - Moonkyoung Cho
- Division
of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro,
Nam-Gu, Pohang 37673, South Korea
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23
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Pavla S, Danka H, Premysl M, Denisa M, Kristyna M, Zdenka S. Do the total mercury concentrations detected in fish from Czech ponds represent a risk for consumers? Sci Rep 2022; 12:553. [PMID: 35017608 PMCID: PMC8752681 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04561-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury is one of the important pollutants of the environment. Therefore, it's necessary to monitor quantity of mercury especially in aquatic ecosystems. The main goal of the presented study was to compare the content of total mercury in tissues of fish coming from the Czech Republic, an important carp exporter, with focus on comparison of mercury content between 3 different ponds, its comparison between different fish species and between different tissues of the same species, and estimation whether the mercury content in tissues meets the limit given in the Commission Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 or not. Total mercury concentration was measured in 90 fish specimen sampled from three ponds (Velky Kocelovicky, Mysliv and Zehunsky) in autumn 2018. The values of total mercury in fish tissues was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. The content of total mercury in the tissues decreased as follows: muscle > liver > gonads > scales. The highest average content of total mercury in muscle was 0.1517 ± 0.0176 mg/kg coming from pike caught in Velky Kocelovicky pond. In contrast, the lowest average content of total mercury in muscle 0.0036 ± 0.0003 mg/kg was found in carp tissue coming from the locality of Zehunsky pond. We confirmed that the predatory fish are more exposed to mercury than non-predatory fish. None of the monitored localities exceeded the set regulatory limit. Thus, our study shows that fish coming from these ponds are safe in terms of total mercury content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehonova Pavla
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Mikula Premysl
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Medkova Denisa
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Zoology, Fisheries, Hydrobiology and Apiculture, Faculty of Agrisciences, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Malacova Kristyna
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Svobodova Zdenka
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare & Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
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24
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Leitão RG, Silva MP, Diniz MS, Guerra M. Mapping the distribution of mercury (II) chloride in zebrafish organs by benchtop micro-energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence: A proof of concept. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 69:126874. [PMID: 34700157 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mercury (Hg) is a globally ubiquitous pollutant and one of the most dangerous metal contaminants, which presents a high risk of bioaccumulation in living organisms. In this study, we mapped the distribution of Hg and other trace elements in zebrafish (Danio rerio), which were exposed to mercury (II) chloride in order to assess its toxicity, bioaccumulation and distribution in fish organs. METHODS Adult zebrafish were exposed for 7 days to different concentrations of mercury (II) chloride and the elemental distribution was obtained through the micro-energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence technique (μ-EDXRF). RESULTS The results showed that Hg levels, measured in fish tissues, were indicative of bioaccumulation within some of its organs (e.g. visceral mass, gills), and that the physiological processes of accumulation were highly dose-dependent. In addition, the results showed higher concentrations of Hg in the gills. Moreover, other trace elements (e.g. Fe, Cu and Zn) levels were not altered after fish exposure to mercury(II) chloride. CONCLUSION The μ-EDXRF results were assessed along with the determination of some oxidative stress biomarkers (e.g. antioxidant enzymes) to understand the effects behind the Hg bioaccumulation and toxicity. These results suggest that the metabolic changes in zebrafish due to the exposure to Hg are consistent with oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta G Leitão
- LIBPhys - UNL, Laboratory for Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering and Radiation Physics, Physics Department, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal.
| | - Maria P Silva
- LIBPhys - UNL, Laboratory for Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering and Radiation Physics, Physics Department, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Mario S Diniz
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal; UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Chemistry/Department of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Mauro Guerra
- LIBPhys - UNL, Laboratory for Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering and Radiation Physics, Physics Department, School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
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25
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Does aquatic sediment pollution result in contaminated food sources? ACTA VET BRNO 2021. [DOI: 10.2754/avb202190040453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The sediment pollution of the aquatic environment by waste due to anthropogenic activity is of an increasing concern. The contaminants coming from the aquatic environment can enter the aquatic food chain and accumulate in the tissues of fish and shellfish used for human consumption. The aim of this study was to sum up the current level of knowledge concerning the pollution of aquatic sediments and its transfer to aquatic foods as well as to indicate whether such contamination has the potential to affect the health and welfare of aquatic organisms as well as the quality and safety of the species intended for human consumption. Based on the results of scientific studies, the European Food Safety Authority, and the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed, contamination of fish and seafood occurs predominantly through their diet and the levels of bioaccumulative contaminants are higher in fish which rank higher in the food chain. Contamination of aquatic habitats can not only significantly affect behavior, development, and welfare of aquatic organisms, but it can also affect the safety of fish and seafood for human consumption.
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26
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Kljaković-Gašpić Z, Tičina V. Mercury and selenium levels in archive samples of wild Atlantic bluefin tuna from the Mediterranean Sea. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 284:131402. [PMID: 34323802 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study examined total mercury (THg) and selenium (Se) levels in archive samples (white and red muscles, liver, gills) of the wild Atlantic bluefin tuna (ABFT) (Thunnus thynnus) (n = 18) captured in the central Adriatic Sea. The influence of fish size, age, and tissue type on element distribution was examined. There were significant differences in THg and Se levels, and Se:THg molar ratios among tissues. THg levels were highest in liver and lowest in gills (liver > red muscle > white muscle > gills), while Se levels were also highest in liver but lowest in white muscle (liver > red muscle > gills > white muscle). Se:THg molar ratios were highest in gills (22-82), intermediate in liver (11-29) and red muscle (7-36), and lowest in white muscle (1.7-7.6). Concentrations of THg in all tissues and Se in liver and caudal muscle were positively correlated with tuna age and size, while the Se:THg molar ratio in gills and all white muscles was negatively correlated with tuna age and size, indicating that the protective role of Se against THg is reduced in older specimens. The selenium health benefit values (HBVSe) were above zero in all tissues, indicating a small excess of Se after Hg sequestration. However, since the obtained HBVSe for edible tissues were near zero (0.01-0.04), and more than 70% of white muscle samples and all red muscle samples exceeded the EU regulatory limit for THg in fish muscle, it would be advisable to limit their intake in adults to one meal per month.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zorana Kljaković-Gašpić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10001, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vjekoslav Tičina
- Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, PO Box 500, 21000, Split, Croatia.
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27
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Nascimento PC, Ferreira MKM, Balbinot KM, Alves-Júnior SM, Viana Pinheiro JDJ, Silveira FM, Martins MD, Crespo-Lopez ME, Lima RR. Methylmercury-Induced Toxicopathologic Findings in Salivary Glands of Offspring Rats After Gestational and Lactational Exposure. Biol Trace Elem Res 2021; 199:2983-2991. [PMID: 33009984 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-020-02409-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is one of the main global pollutants. The vulnerability of fetus and newborn to MeHg-induced changes is extensively reported, making relevant investigation possible for alternative sample matrix for human biological monitoring for at this stage of life. This study aimed to characterize tissue change effects of environmental-experimental MeHg on salivary glands of offspring rats after pre- and postnatal exposure. For this, pregnant Wistar rats were orally exposed to MeHg (40 μg/kg BW/day) or only vehicle (control group), from the gestational period to the end of the lactation period. Salivary glands (SG) were collected from the offspring to analyze possible Hg levels and main findings by histopathological evaluations and CK19 and α-SMA immunostaining. The results indicated that Hg levels in SG of intoxicated offspring were associated with histologic abnormalities, such as acinar atrophy and an increase in the intercellular matrix among the acini, as well as damages in the architecture of epithelium and myoepithelial cells, evidenced by a decrease in immunostaining area. Thus, this is the first study to show in the literature the toxicopathologic findings on SG of offspring after pre- and postnatal exposure to MeHg. Moreover, it presents the SG as an attractive target to futures studies, mainly in children exposed to environmentally relevant doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Cunha Nascimento
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Rua Augusto Corrêa n° 1, Campus do Guamá, Belém, Pará, 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Maria Karolina Martins Ferreira
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Rua Augusto Corrêa n° 1, Campus do Guamá, Belém, Pará, 66075-110, Brazil
| | | | - Sérgio Melo Alves-Júnior
- School of Dentistry, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | | | - Felipe Martins Silveira
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Manoela Domingues Martins
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Rafael Rodrigues Lima
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Rua Augusto Corrêa n° 1, Campus do Guamá, Belém, Pará, 66075-110, Brazil.
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Galvao P, Sus B, Lailson-Brito J, Azevedo A, Malm O, Bisi T. An upwelling area as a hot spot for mercury biomonitoring in a climate change scenario: A case study with large demersal fishes from Southeast Atlantic (SE-Brazil). CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 269:128718. [PMID: 33189394 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Data concerning the monomethylmercury (MeHg) bioaccumulation in marine biota from Southeast Atlantic Ocean are scarce. This study purchased large specimens of demersal fishes from an upwelling region: Warsaw grouper (Epinephelus nigritus), Dusky grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) and Namorado sandperch (Pseudopercis numida). The authors addressed the bioaccumulation and toxicokinetic of mercury in fish organs, and the toxicological risk for human consumption of this metal in the muscle tissues accessed. Additionally, the present study discussed the possible implications of shifts in key variables of the environment related to a climate-changing predicted scenario, to the mercury biomagnification in a tropical upwelling system. The muscle was the main stock of MeHg, although the highest THg concentrations have been found in liver tissue. Regarding the acceptable maximum level (ML = 1 mg kg-1), E. nigritus and E. marginatus showed 22% of the samples above this limit. Concerning P. numida, 77% were above 0.5 mg kg-1, but below the ML. The %MeHg in liver and muscle showed no significative correlations, which suggest independent biochemical pathways to the toxicokinetic of MeHg, and constrains the indirect assessment of the mercury contamination in the edible tissue by the liver analyses. The present study highlights the food web features of a tropical upwelling ecosystem that promote mercury biomagnification. Additionally, recent studies endorse the enhancement of upwelling phenomenon due to the climate global changes which boost the pumping of mercury enriched water to the oceanic upper layer. Therefore, the upwelling areas might be hot spots for MeHg monitoring in marine biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petrus Galvao
- Programa de Biofísica Ambiental, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Bruna Sus
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia - Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - José Lailson-Brito
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia - Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Azevedo
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia - Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Olaf Malm
- Programa de Biofísica Ambiental, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Bisi
- Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores Prof(a). Izabel Gurgel (MAQUA), Faculdade de Oceanografia - Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, 20550-013, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Salazar-Camacho C, Salas-Moreno M, Paternina-Uribe R, Marrugo-Negrete J, Díez S. Mercury species in fish from a tropical river highly impacted by gold mining at the Colombian Pacific region. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128478. [PMID: 33065322 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study was carried out in the Atrato River basin, a tropical ecosystem in northwestern Colombia, highly impacted by gold mining. The aim of this study was to show how these activities have deteriorated the quality of fish species, and how their intensity has influenced the distribution of mercury (Hg) pollution in the Atrato River basin. Results showed that total mercury (THg, n = 842) ranged between 32 ± 53 μg kg-1 (Cyphocharax magdalenae) and 678.5 ± 345 μg kg-1 (Agneiosus pardalis); 38% of the samples exceeded the WHO limit for the protection of populations at risk, and 15% surpassed the WHO maximum limit of THg in fish for human consumption. A significant positive correlation (p < 0.001) was found between THg with total fish length and trophic level, indicating bioaccumulation and biomagnification of mercury in fish, respectively. Using the non-migratory and carnivorous fish species Hoplias malabaricus and Caquetaia kraussii, Hg contamination was found distributed from high mining activity zones (Rio Quito, Medio Atrato, and Murindó & Vigía del Fuerte - upstream zones) to low activity areas (Rio Sucio & Carmen del Darién, and Ciénaga de Ungía & Tumaradó - downstream zones). In the first-ever performed methylmercury (MeHg) measurements in 520 fish muscle samples analyzed from the Atrato River basin, a high MeHg/THg ratio (91% of the THg) in species such as A. pardalis and H. malabaricus were recorded. Results indicated that the environment and the fish species in the Atrato River basin had been greatly affected by gold mining activities practiced on the river and its tributaries. Therefore, environmental authorities must take protection measures for the inhabitants of the area as well as for the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Salazar-Camacho
- Universidad Tecnológica Del Chocó, Biology Department, Biosistematic Research Group, Quibdó, 270008, Colombia
| | - Manuel Salas-Moreno
- Universidad Tecnológica Del Chocó, Biology Department, Biosistematic Research Group, Quibdó, 270008, Colombia
| | | | - José Marrugo-Negrete
- Universidad de Córdoba, Carrera 6 No. 76-103, Montería, Córdoba, 230003, Colombia.
| | - Sergi Díez
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, E-08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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Shipley ON, Lee CS, Fisher NS, Sternlicht JK, Kattan S, Staaterman ER, Hammerschlag N, Gallagher AJ. Metal concentrations in coastal sharks from The Bahamas with a focus on the Caribbean Reef shark. Sci Rep 2021; 11:218. [PMID: 33420176 PMCID: PMC7794238 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79973-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last century anthropogenic activities have rapidly increased the influx of metals and metalloids entering the marine environment, which can bioaccumulate and biomagnify in marine top consumers. This may elicit sublethal effects on target organisms, having broad implications for human seafood consumers. We provide the first assessment of metal (Cd, Pb, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, As, Ag, and THg) and metalloid (As) concentrations in the muscle tissue of coastal sharks from The Bahamas. A total of 36 individual sharks from six species were evaluated, spanning two regions/study areas, with a focus on the Caribbean reef shark (Carcharhinus perezi), and to a lesser extent the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier). This is due their high relative abundance and ecological significance throughout coastal Bahamian and regional ecosystems. Caribbean reef sharks exhibited some of the highest metal concentrations compared to five other species, and peaks in the concentrations of Pb, Cr, Cu were observed as individuals reached sexual maturity. Observations were attributed to foraging on larger, more piscivorous prey, high longevity, as well a potential slowing rate of growth. We observed correlations between some metals, which are challenging to interpret but may be attributed to trophic level and ambient metal conditions. Our results provide the first account of metal concentrations in Bahamian sharks, suggesting individuals exhibit high concentrations which may potentially cause sublethal effects. Finally, these findings underscore the potential toxicity of shark meat and have significant implications for human consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver N Shipley
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Cheng-Shiuan Lee
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
- New York State Center for Clean Water Technology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Nicholas S Fisher
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | | | - Sami Kattan
- Beneath the Waves, PO Box 126, Herndon, VA, USA
| | | | - Neil Hammerschlag
- Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33149, USA
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Evers DC, Sauer AK, Burns DA, Fisher NS, Bertok DC, Adams EM, Burton MEH, Driscoll CT. A synthesis of patterns of environmental mercury inputs, exposure and effects in New York State. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 29:1565-1589. [PMID: 33170395 PMCID: PMC7661403 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-020-02291-4] [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] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) pollution is an environmental problem that adversely affects human and ecosystem health at local, regional, and global scales-including within New York State. More than two-thirds of the Hg currently released to the environment originates, either directly or indirectly, from human activities. Since the early 1800s, global atmospheric Hg concentrations have increased by three- to eight-fold over natural levels. In the U.S., atmospheric emissions and point-source releases to waterways increased following industrialization into the mid-1980s. Since then, water discharges have largely been curtailed. As a result, Hg emissions, atmospheric concentrations, and deposition over the past few decades have declined across the eastern U.S. Despite these decreases, Hg pollution persists. To inform policy efforts and to advance public understanding, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) sponsored a scientific synthesis of information on Hg in New York State. This effort includes 23 papers focused on Hg in atmospheric deposition, water, fish, and wildlife published in Ecotoxicology. New York State experiences Hg contamination largely due to atmospheric deposition. Some landscapes are inherently sensitive to Hg inputs driven by the transport of inorganic Hg to zones of methylation, the conversion of inorganic Hg to methylmercury, and the bioaccumulation and biomagnification along food webs. Mercury concentrations exceed human and ecological risk thresholds in many areas of New York State, particularly the Adirondacks, Catskills, and parts of Long Island. Mercury concentrations in some biota have declined in the Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands and the Northeastern Highlands over the last four decades, concurrent with decreases in water releases and air emissions from regional and U.S. sources. However, widespread changes have not occurred in other ecoregions of New York State. While the timing and magnitude of the response of Hg levels in biota varies, policies expected to further diminish Hg emissions should continue to decrease Hg concentrations in food webs, yielding benefits to the fish, wildlife, and people of New York State. Anticipated improvements in the Hg status of aquatic ecosystems are likely to be greatest for inland surface waters and should be roughly proportional to declines in atmospheric Hg deposition. Efforts that advance recovery from Hg pollution in recent years have yielded significant progress, but Hg remains a pollutant of concern. Indeed, due to this extensive compilation of Hg observations in biota, it appears that the extent and intensity of the contamination on the New York landscape and waterscape is greater than previously recognized. Understanding the extent of Hg contamination and recovery following decreases in atmospheric Hg deposition will require further study, underscoring the need to continue existing monitoring efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- D C Evers
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA.
| | - A K Sauer
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
- Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA
| | - D A Burns
- U.S. Geological Survey, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - N S Fisher
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - D C Bertok
- New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, Albany, NY, 12203, USA
| | - E M Adams
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - M E H Burton
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
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Wang X, Wang WX. Determination of the Low Hg Accumulation in Rabbitfish ( Siganus canaliculatus) by Various Elimination Pathways: Simulation by a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:7440-7449. [PMID: 32408739 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) in fish poses a great threat to human health. Consumption of low-Hg-level fish species (e.g., rabbitfish, Siganus canaliculatus) could be one possible solution to balance the nutrient benefits and Hg exposure. However, the underlying mechanisms for the low Hg accumulation in rabbitfish remain unclear. This study quantitatively described the disposition of inorganic Hg(II) and methylmercury (MeHg) in rabbitfish under different exposure routes by constructing a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model. The results strongly suggested that effective elimination (estimated rate constant of 0.060, 0.065, and 0.020 d-1 for waterborne Hg(II)-, dietary Hg(II)-, and MeHg-exposed fish, respectively) was the main reason for the low Hg accumulation in rabbitfish. By quantifying the possible pathways for Hg elimination, our study revealed that biliary coupled with fecal excretion played an important role in the elimination of dietary Hg. Although the biliary excretion rate for MeHg was remarkable (6.8 ± 2.2 d-1) and the excreted amount per day could reach up to 790 ng, most of the MeHg in the bile was reabsorbed by the intestine and transferred back to the liver through enterohepatic circulation, leading to a prolonged retention time in the fish body. Moreover, branchial excretion dominated the Hg(II) elimination following aqueous exposure, suggesting a flexible alteration on elimination pathways against different exposure scenarios. The present study provided important understanding of the unique strategies adopted by rabbitfish to maintain the low Hg levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Wang
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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