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Bothma F, Uren RC, Iordachescu L, van der Lingen CD, Bouwman H. Microplastics in the Indian and South Atlantic oceans translocate to gills, digestive glands, and muscle of the chokka squid Loligo reynaudii. Mar Pollut Bull 2024; 202:116371. [PMID: 38657492 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Comparative microplastic (MP) data for cephalopods between oceans is scarce. Our aim was to quantify, characterise, and compare MPs in gills, digestive gland, and mantle of chokka squid from the South Atlantic Ocean (SAO) and Indian Ocean (IO) off the coast of South Africa. South African squid had more MPs compared with other studies (means = 2.0 and 0.4 in SAO and IO squid mantle, respectively). Blue fibres were dominant. Identifiable MPs were polyethylene. Despite IO water having higher MP concentrations than the SAO, SAO squid had higher MP concentrations. Dilution by growth is the likely reason for the lower MP concentrations. Fibres were shorter in SAO than IO squid. However, we could not explain why fibre and mantle lengths from both oceans were positively correlated. Squid may not be the best indicator of marine MPs. The characteristics of MPs in squid can be used to track stocks and migrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francois Bothma
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Ryan Christian Uren
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Lucian Iordachescu
- Department of the Built Environment, Division of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Carl D van der Lingen
- Formerly, Branch: Fisheries Management, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Biodiversity and Conservation Biology, University of the Western Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Burger M, Bouwman H, du Preez LH, Landman W. Larger Common River Frogs (Amietia delalandii) have Fewer and Shorter Tissue Microplastic Fibres than Smaller Frogs. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2024; 112:29. [PMID: 38281207 PMCID: PMC10822785 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-024-03852-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about microplastics (MPs) in adult frogs. We investigated MPs in adult Common River Frogs (Amietia delalandii) from Potchefstroom, South Africa. Five kinds of samples were analysed: natural water, water used to rinse the skin, skin, intestine, and the remainder of the body (corpus). Tissues were digested. Microplastics occurred in all frogs and sample types (1128 MPs counted). Fibres were the most prevalent MP. Fibre lengths were between 28 and 4300 μm, either polyester or polyvinyl alcohol. MPs in skin were likely derived from the ambient, and MPs in the corpus from translocation via the skin. Fibres in tissues were significantly shorter in larger frogs, a phenomenon we provisionally assign to in situ biodegradation. Microplastics in frogs can potentially be transferred through the food web to higher trophic levels. This study provides the first evidence of MPs in adult frog tissues and avenues for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Burger
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Louis H du Preez
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Herpetology, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Willie Landman
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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3
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Nantaba F, Wasswa J, Kylin H, Bouwman H, Palm WU, Kümmerer K. Spatial trends and ecotoxic risk assessment of selected pharmaceuticals in sediments from Lake Victoria, Uganda, East Africa. Sci Total Environ 2024; 906:167348. [PMID: 37769731 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceutical residues in the aquatic environment are an emerging issue of global concern because of their effects on ecosystems including; antibacterial resistance development and endocrine disruption. Lake Victoria is the largest freshwater lake in Africa, and the second largest lake in the world. It is also the main source of the White Nile River, arguably the longest river in the world, flowing through South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia and Egypt, discharging into the Mediterranean Sea. However, its ecology is threatened by rapid industrialisation, urbanization, and increased agricultural activities, which have led to increased pollution via polluted runoffs. In this study, the occurrence of twenty-five pharmaceutical compounds (14 antibiotics, four anti-epileptic and antidepressant drugs, three analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs, three beta-blockers, and one lipid regulator) was studied in 55 sediment samples obtained from the Ugandan sector of Lake Victoria, and their ecotoxic risk assessed. All the target compounds were quantifiable with levofloxacin (2-120 ng g-1 dm; dry mass), ciprofloxacin (3-130 ng g-1 dm) enoxacin (9-75 ng g-1 dm), ibuprofen (6-50 ng g-1 dm), metoprolol (1-92 ng g-1 dm) and propranolol (1-52 ng g-1 dm) being predominant. Murchison Bay, being the chief recipient of sewage effluents, municipal and industrial waste from Kampala city and its suburbs, had the highest levels. Ecotoxic risk assessment revealed that ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, sulfamethazine, oxytetracycline, tetracycline, erythromycin, norfloxacin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, carbamazepine, atenolol, and metoprolol posed high toxic risks to sediment-dwelling organisms (risk quotients, RQ >1). This is the first study reporting concentrations and ecotoxic risks of pharmaceuticals in sediments of Lake Victoria, Uganda, and the whole of East Africa. Detection, identification and quantification of pharmaceuticals in Lake Victoria sediments is essential for gaining knowledge on their occurrence and fate which can ultimately be used to assist in constructing relevant policy and management recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Nantaba
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda; Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany.
| | - John Wasswa
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henrik Kylin
- Department of Thematic Research - Environmental Change, Linköping University, SE-58183 Linköping, Sweden; Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Wolf-Ulrich Palm
- Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Kümmerer
- Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
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Plön S, Roussouw N, Uren R, Naidoo K, Siebert U, Cliff G, Bouwman H. Elements in muscle tissue of three dolphin species from the east coast of South Africa. Mar Pollut Bull 2023; 188:114707. [PMID: 36860028 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We investigated elemental concentrations in muscle tissue of three species of dolphins incidentally bycaught off the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, South Africa. Thirty-six major, minor and trace elements were analysed in Indian Ocean humpback dolphin Sousa plumbea (n = 36), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin Tursiops aduncus (n = 32) and the Common dolphin Delphinus delphis (n = 8). Significant differences in concentration between the three species were observed for 11 elements (cadmium, iron, manganese, sodium, platinum, antimony, selenium, strontium, uranium, vanadium and zinc). Mercury concentrations (maximum 29 mg/kg dry mass) were generally higher than those reported for coastal dolphin species found elsewhere. Our results reflect a combination of species differences in habitat, feeding ecology, age, and possibly species physiology and exposure to pollution levels. This study confirms the high organic pollutant concentrations documented previously for these species from the same location, and provides a well-founded case for the need to reduce pollutant sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Plön
- Bayworld Centre for Research and Education (BCRE), Port Elizabeth, South Africa; Medical Virology, Institute of Pathology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - N Roussouw
- Bayworld Centre for Research and Education (BCRE), Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - R Uren
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - K Naidoo
- KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board (KZNSB), Umhlanga Rocks, South Africa
| | - U Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - G Cliff
- KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board (KZNSB), Umhlanga Rocks, South Africa; School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Fourie AJ, Uren RC, Marlin D, Bouwman H. Metals and co-presence of other pollutants in mussels (Perna perna) around Algoa Bay: Human consumption safety concerns. Mar Pollut Bull 2022; 185:114345. [PMID: 36410201 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Elevated metal concentrations can become harmful to marine organisms and to humans that consume them. Metal concentrations at multiple sites around Algoa Bay, South Africa, were last investigated in the 1980s. We collected wild brown mussels (Perna perna) from seven sites around Algoa Bay, and quantified metallic elements using ICPMS. Metallic element concentrations differed significantly among the sampling sites and correlated with pollution sources at specific sites. The concentration of Pb in mussels at one site slightly exceeded South African limits. Based on the South African estimated daily intake, the target hazard quotient, and South African metal limits, mussels from Algoa Bay are safe for human consumption, except possibly from one site. However, combined with data on bisphenols and benzophenone UV filters in P. perna from the same sites, we suggest a possible health concern to consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amarein J Fourie
- Sustainable Seas Trust, 222 Main Road, Walmer, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa.
| | - Ryan C Uren
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
| | - Danica Marlin
- Sustainable Seas Trust, 222 Main Road, Walmer, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
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Horn S, Vogt T, Gerber E, Vogt B, Bouwman H, Pieters R. HIV-antiretrovirals in river water from Gauteng, South Africa: Mixed messages of wastewater inflows as source. Sci Total Environ 2022; 806:150346. [PMID: 34601177 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
South Africa has the highest number of people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). High usage of HIV-antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) for the treatment of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) leads to the presence of ARVs in the environment. Wastewater is a major contributor of pharmaceuticals in surface and drinking water as wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are not designed to remove these compounds. Pharmaceuticals in the environment pose risks and the effects of ARVs on non-target organisms are largely unknown. The concentrations of ARVs in surface water upstream and downstream from WWTPs in rivers were determined. The samples were extracted by solid-phase extraction and analysed by using liquid chromatography coupled with a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Five ARVs were quantified, mostly in downstream samples of the WWTPs, indicating wastewater as a source of ARVs, but this was not apparent in all cases. Nevirapine, lopinavir, and efavirenz were frequently detected; the highest concentrations being lopinavir and efavirenz at 38 μg/L and 24 μg/L, respectively. Aquatic ecosystems are at risk due to the constant input of pharmaceuticals that include large amounts of everyday use and the release of ARVs. This study highlights the potential of increased water pollution worldwide should more people consume increased quantities of pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suranie Horn
- North-West University, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa.
| | - Tash Vogt
- North-West University, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa
| | - Elisca Gerber
- North-West University, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa
| | - Bianca Vogt
- North-West University, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- North-West University, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa
| | - Rialet Pieters
- North-West University, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa
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Bouwman H, Pieters R, Polder A, Quinn L. Ten Bird Species, Six Guilds, Three Habitats, and 59 Chlorinated and Brominated POPs: What do 64 Eggs from the Largest Economic Hub of Southern Africa tell us? Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 2021; 81:347-366. [PMID: 34480207 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-021-00882-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is little information on how POPs in eggs of different terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic birds share a large urban and rural landscape relate. We collected and analysed 64 eggs belonging to ten species of six feeding guilds, and compared organic chlorinated pesticide (OCP), polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), and brominated flame retardants (BFR) residue concentrations and compositions. The eggs were collected in the Gauteng and the northern part of the Free Sate provinces of South Africa, one of the largest economic hubs in Africa. White-breasted Cormorant and African Darter eggs (at the highest trophic level as large aquatic predators) had the highest ΣOCP and ΣPCB concentrations, and Cape Sparrow and Southern Masked Weaver (granivores) eggs had the lowest concentrations, corresponding to the lowest trophic level in our collection. The highest percentage p,p'-DDT were in eggs of the terrestrial insectivore Crowned Lapwing (24%) and the scavenging African Sacred Ibis (17%), and the lowest in African Darter (1.0%) and White-breasted Cormorant (0.9%) eggs, suggesting that recency of DDT releases in a region cannot be gauged by this metric. African Sacred Ibis and Southern Masked Weaver eggs had the highest ΣBFR concentrations, with Crowned Lapwing, Cattle Egret, and White-breasted Cormorant eggs the least. Based on feeding guilds, the mean ΣPOP concentrations increased from granivore, aquatic omnivore, scavenger, terrestrial insectivore, small aquatic predator, to large aquatic predator. Mean ΣPOP concentrations in eggs increased from terrestrial, to wetland, to aquatic habitat birds. Interesting patterns were observed with multivariate analyses. There were no significant regressions between egg size and any summed POP classes. ΣBFR concentrations were not correlated with ΣOCPs or ΣPCBs. Eggshell thinning of African Darter eggs was associated with p,p'-DDE and ΣPCB suggesting risk. Other metrics also suggest risk. Therefore, different species of terrestrial and aquatic birds from the same area acquire and deposit POPs in different proportions and quantities in their eggs. Trophic levels and habitat explain the overall patterns, but detailed differences were found, some of which we are unable to explain. Based on POPs residues in terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic bird eggs, different POPs classes behave differently in a shared large inland industrial area, complicating deductions about POPs and associated risks based on one or few species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - R Pieters
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - A Polder
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - L Quinn
- National Metrology Institute of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
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Nadat YT, Kylin H, Sithole R, Lesch V, Bouwman H. The Wasp as a Terrestrial Indicator of Environmental Metal Composition: Evidence from Zimbabwe. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021; 40:1726-1739. [PMID: 33646628 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We explored metal concentrations in wasps from 4 sites near Harare, Zimbabwe, on a 106 km west-east transect. We found elevated concentrations at 2 presumed-polluted sites (a platinum [Pt] mine and a known polluted lake) located near a metal-enriched geological feature (the Great Dyke). A site in urban Harare and a nature reserve served as reference. Only wasps from the 2 presumed-polluted sites had quantifiable Pt. For Cr, Ni, Mg, Se, Fe, Mn, and V, we report the highest concentrations in wasps yet published. Wasps from the presumed-polluted sites had significantly higher concentrations of most metals when compared with wasps from the reference sites, suggesting pollution as a source. Geology, however, differs between the sites. It is probable, therefore, that both geology and pollution contributed to the differences in metal concentrations. Because of its long and narrow dimensions (550 km long and 4-11 km wide), the Great Dyke offers opportunities for comparative studies. Because wasps form a complex part of the food web and ecology, studies on the transfer of metals to wasps' predators are needed, especially given that some birds specialize in feeding on hymenopterans. The rich diversity of wasps (>145 000 species worldwide) occupying multiple different trophic levels is a good indicator, and wasps have a rich potential to join other invertebrates as terrestrial indicators. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1726-1739. © 2021 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasfir Tarif Nadat
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Henrik Kylin
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- Department of Thematic Studies-Environmental Change, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Rudo Sithole
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Velesia Lesch
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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van der Schyff V, Kwet Yive NSC, Polder A, Cole NC, Tatayah V, Kylin H, Bouwman H. Persistent organic pollutants in sea bird eggs from the Indian Ocean's Mascarene Basin. Sci Total Environ 2021; 771:145348. [PMID: 33540163 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We report the concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in seabird eggs from St. Brandon's Atoll, a tropical island system in the western Indian Ocean. Ten eggs each of sooty terns (Onychoprion fuscatus), fairy terns (Gygis alba), and common noddies (Anous stolidus) were collected from the atoll. For a terrestrial reference, we analysed three feral chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) eggs from the same location. Sooty tern eggs contained the highest mean concentrations of three chemical classes: ƩCHL3 (0.21 ng/g wm; wet mass), ƩPCB10 (1.5 ng/g wm), and ƩPBDE6 (1.1 ng/g wm). Fairy tern eggs contained the highest mean concentrations of HCB (0.68 ng/g wm) and ƩCHB5 (0.83 ng/g wm). The chicken eggs contained the highest mean concentrations of ƩDDT3 (2.6 ng/g wm), while common noddy eggs contained the highest mean concentrations of ƩHCH2 (0.5 ng/g wm). We surmise that the differences in chemical composition between species reflect different pollutant compositions in prey from the bird's different foraging ranges. The sooty terns foraging offshore contained higher POPs concentrations than the nearshore-foraging common noddies. Fairy tern eggs contained intermediate concentrations, commensurate with their intermediate foraging. Inter-island differences in contaminant concentrations were seen between eggs of the common noddies from St. Brandon's Atoll and Rodrigues Island, 520 km to the south-east. Concentrations of contaminants found in this study were lower than values quantified by other studies, making St. Brandon's Atoll an ideal reference site to monitor background concentrations of POPs in the tropical Indian Ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica van der Schyff
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | | | - Anuschka Polder
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), 0033 Oslo, Norway
| | - Nik C Cole
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, Trinity, Jersey Channel Islands, UK; Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Grannum Road, Vacoas, Mauritius
| | - Vikash Tatayah
- Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Grannum Road, Vacoas, Mauritius
| | - Henrik Kylin
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Water and Environmental Studies, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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van der Schyff V, du Preez M, Blom K, Kwet Yive NSC, Klánová J, Přibylová P, Audy O, Martiník J, Bouwman H. Chlorinated and brominated persistent compounds in hard coral, soft coral, and parrotfish from remote Mascarene islands. Chemosphere 2021; 267:129316. [PMID: 33352370 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Persistent halogenated compounds (PHC) are of concern for human and environmental health. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are regulated by international treaties, but alternative compounds such as novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) and Dechlorane Plus (DP) are not-yet they are increasingly used. There are no data on PHCs in coral reef biota from tropical islands in the western Indian Ocean (WIO). For this assessment, three hard coral genera, two soft coral genera, and ember parrotfish (Scarus rubroviolaceus) were collected from the remote Rodrigues, Agalega, and St. Brandon's Atoll (Republic of Mauritius) in the Mascarene Basin of the WIO. Five compounds - Pentabromotoluene (PBT), γ-HCH, p,p'-DDE, HCB, and BDE-47- were quantifiable in all samples. Hard coral consistently contained the lowest concentrations of PHCs, except for NBFRs. The presence of BDE-47 suggests long-range aerial transport. We quantified DP, currently a candidate POP, in coral reef biota. PBT was measured in all samples also suggests long-range transport. Because the hard coral, soft coral, and fish had differing concentrations and patterns of PHCs, future surveys should stratify sampling accordingly. Agalega and St. Brandon's Atoll can be considered as locations to monitor changes in background concentrations of pollutants due to their remoteness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica van der Schyff
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Marinus du Preez
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Karin Blom
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | | | - Jana Klánová
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Sciences, RECETOX, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Přibylová
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Sciences, RECETOX, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Audy
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Sciences, RECETOX, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Martiník
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Sciences, RECETOX, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Gerber R, Bouwman H, Govender D, Ishizuka M, Ikenaka Y, Yohannes YB, Smit NJ, Wepener V. Levels of DDTs and other organochlorine pesticides in healthy wild Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from a flagship conservation area. Chemosphere 2021; 264:128368. [PMID: 33007566 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mass Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) deaths in Africa's premier conservation area, the Kruger National Park (KNP), prompted numerous studies to determine possible causes of the sudden die-offs. The majority highlighted the involvement of the anthropocene to crocodile mass mortalities. One of the potential causative agents was identified as legacy compounds such as organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) present in the various aquatic ecosystems of the KNP. Thus, this study aimed to quantify OCP levels in wild crocodiles from the aquatic systems associated with the KNP. As part of a larger study, muscle tissue samples were collected from tails of 12 wild crocodiles. Results indicated that eight of the 19 OCPs analysed for were quantifiable. These included DDTs (2130-167968 ng/g lw), chlordanes (BD - 7583 ng/g lw) and cyclodeines (BD - 872 ng/g lw). Measured concentrations indicated spatial- and sex-related differences in accumulation patterns. DDT and its metabolites, paricularly p,p'-DDE accumulated to the highest concentrations of the OCP groups. Levels of the different groups of OCPs were the highest recorded in recent history from any crocodilian tissue. The different measured OCP residues were between 2.5 and 120 times higher than levels reported in literature, depending on the compound. These results are of ecotoxicological significance and have several management implications. In view of individuals being sampled from a conservation area it emphasizes the fact that pollutants know no boundaries and that premier conservation areas such as the world renowned KNP may be some of the most contaminated areas of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruan Gerber
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- POPT Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Danny Govender
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza, 1350, South Africa; Department of Paraclinical Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa; Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yared B Yohannes
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan; Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nico J Smit
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Victor Wepener
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa; Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
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12
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Nantaba F, Palm WU, Wasswa J, Bouwman H, Kylin H, Kümmerer K. Temporal dynamics and ecotoxicological risk assessment of personal care products, phthalate ester plasticizers, and organophosphorus flame retardants in water from Lake Victoria, Uganda. Chemosphere 2021; 262:127716. [PMID: 32799137 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
For the first time the occurrence of 25 organic micropollutants (OMPs) including; 11 personal care products (PCPs), six phthalate ester plasticizers (PEPs) and eight organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) was investigated in 72 water samples obtained from five bays in the Uganda sector of Lake Victoria. In addition, an assessment of the potential ecotoxic risk of the target OMPs to aquatic organisms was conducted. Water samples were analyzed for the target OMPs using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). All the target PCPs were found in all the water samples with the exception of musk ketone and 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol. Triclosan (89-1400 ng L-1), benzophenone (36-1300 ng L-1), and 4-methylbenzylidine camphor (21-1500 ng L-1) were the most predominant PCPs. All the six plasticizers were found in all the water samples with dibutyl phthalate (350-16 000 ng L-1), and bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (210-23 000 ng L-1) detected at the highest concentrations. Five OPFRs out of the eight targeted were found in all the water samples. Tricresyl phosphate (25-8100 ng L-1), tris-(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (24-6500 ng L-1) and triphenyl phosphate (54-4300 ng L-1) were the most dominant OPFRs. The highest concentrations of OMPs were recorded in Murchison and Thurston Bays, presumably due to industrial wastewater effluents from the highly industrialized localities of the two Bays. Ecotoxicological risk assessment showed that PCPs (triclosan, musk ketone, and 4-MBC), plasticizers (dibutyl phthalate, bis-(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) and OPFRs (tricresyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate and tris-(2-chloroethyl) phosphate) pose a high ecotoxic risk to lives of aquatic organisms (risk quotients, RQ > 1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Nantaba
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda; Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany.
| | - Wolf-Ulrich Palm
- Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany
| | - John Wasswa
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Henrik Kylin
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Thematic Research - Environmental Change, Linköping University, SE-58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Klaus Kümmerer
- Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany
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13
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Uren RC, Bothma F, van der Lingen CD, Bouwman H. Differences in metal compositions and concentrations of sympatric predatory fish and squid from the South Atlantic Ocean. African Zoology 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2020.1810121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Uren
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Francois Bothma
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Carl D van der Lingen
- Fisheries Management, Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Cape Town and Marine Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Horn S, Vogt B, Pieters R, Bouwman H, Bezuidenhout C. Impact of Potential COVID-19 Treatment on South African Water Sources Already Threatened by Pharmaceutical Pollution. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020; 39:1305-1306. [PMID: 32335933 PMCID: PMC7267554 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Suranie Horn
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Bianca Vogt
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Rialet Pieters
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Carlos Bezuidenhout
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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15
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Wu Q, Schlag S, Uren R, van der Lingen CD, Bouwman H, Vetter W. Polyhalogenated Compounds (Halogenated Natural Products and POPs) in Sardine ( Sardinops sagax) from the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans. J Agric Food Chem 2020; 68:6084-6091. [PMID: 32378893 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c01530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Halogenated natural products (HNPs) and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) were quantified in South African sardines (Sardinops sagax) from one site in the South Atlantic Ocean and one in the Indian Ocean. At both sites, HNPs [2,3,3',4,4',5,5'-heptachloro-1'-methyl-1,2'-bipyrrole (Q1), mixed halogenated compound 1 (MHC-1), 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (2,4,6-TBA), 2'-MeO-BDE 68 (BC-2), and 6-MeO-BDE 47 (BC-3)] were 1 order of magnitude higher concentrated than anthropogenic POPs [mainly polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), ∼3 ng/g lipids]. MHC-1 and Q1 were the major HNPs in the samples from both sites, contributing with up to 49 and 52 ng/g lipids, respectively. The same 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane (p,p'-DDE)/PCB ratio suggested that the major POPs were evenly distributed at both sites. Different ratios of Q1/MHC-1 in the samples from the Indian (∼2:1) and South Atlantic (∼1:1) Oceans indicated that the occurrence of HNPs in seafood is difficult to predict and should be investigated more in detail. The PCB levels in sardines were found to pose no risk to human consumers, whereas HNPs could not be evaluated because of the lack of toxicological data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wu
- Institute of Food Chemistry (170b), University of Hohenheim, Garbenstraße 28, D-70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sarah Schlag
- Institute of Food Chemistry (170b), University of Hohenheim, Garbenstraße 28, D-70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ryan Uren
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, 2531 Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Carl D van der Lingen
- Fisheries Management, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 8000 Cape Town, South Africa
- Marine Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, 7701 Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, 2531 Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Walter Vetter
- Institute of Food Chemistry (170b), University of Hohenheim, Garbenstraße 28, D-70599 Stuttgart, Germany
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Abstract
We review and evaluate the major land-based sources and pathways of plastic waste that lead to marine pollution in a South African context. Many of the formal solid waste and waste-water management facilities in South Africa are not fully functional, contributing towards plastic releases to the environment. Much plastic also enters the environment directly by informal and illegal dumping. Once in the environment, plastic is transported and distributed by air, inland waterways and human activity, with complex dynamics that are not fully understood. Depending on the size and type of plastic and environmental factors like wind action and run-off, plastic can be deposited into sinks such as soil, river sediments and vegetation, or carried to the ocean. Contrary to an initial assumption that South Africa is the 11th worst contributor to marine plastic pollution, we estimate from more accurate and recent data that between 15 000 and 40 000 tonnes per year is carried to the oceans. This amount is six-fold less than a previous estimate. Despite many data and information gaps that require urgent attention through research and monitoring, it is clear that the status quo will lead to a worsening of already severe plastic pollution of all environments. South Africa needs to reduce plastic entering the environment by reducing illegal and informal dumping, effectively implementing and improving waste management infrastructure, and intensifying long-term awareness campaigns. Most importantly, however, immediate and effective mitigation is required. Significance: • More accurate and recent data show that between 15 000 and 40 000 tonnes of plastic is carried to the oceans from South Africa per year – six-fold less than the widely used previous estimate. • Riverine sediments are potentially major sinks for plastic en route to the ocean. • Management of treated waste-water sludge, as well as the state of waste-water treatment plants (WWTPs) are key concerns. WWTPs are reported to remove most plastic from the water content. The state of South African WWTPs have deteriorated to such an extent that up to 40% of the country’s waste water is untreated and data and management practices of sludge are unavailable. • There are major data gaps in the South African waste sector, which lead to miscalculations and uncertainties about the country’s contribution to marine plastic debris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Verster
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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17
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van der Schyff V, Kwet Yive NSC, Polder A, Cole NC, Bouwman H. Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in tern eggs from St. Brandon's Atoll, Indian Ocean. Mar Pollut Bull 2020; 154:111061. [PMID: 32174506 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are anthropogenic fluorinated compounds of concern for human and environmental health. There is no data on PFAS concentrations in marine bird eggs from the Western Indian Ocean. We analysed eight PFAS in eggs of fairy terns (Gygis alba), sooty terns (Onychoprion fuscatus), and common noddies (Anous stolidus) from St. Brandon's Atoll. Fairy tern eggs contained the highest concentrations, followed by sooty terns and common noddies. Perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUdA) had the highest mean concentration (2.3 ng/g wm), followed by perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) (2.0 ng/g wm), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) (0.93 ng/g wm) in fairy tern eggs. Concentrations of all PFAS were lower than values found in literature. PFOS and PFOA concentrations were three orders of magnitude lower than toxicity reference values and levels of lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level concentrations. Eggs from St. Brandon's would be useful to monitor background changes on a regional and perhaps global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica van der Schyff
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | | | - Anuschka Polder
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, The Norwegian School of Veterinary Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nik C Cole
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, Trinity, Jersey Channel Islands, UK; Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Grannum Road, Vacoas, Mauritius
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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18
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van der Schyff V, du Preez M, Blom K, Kylin H, Kwet Yive NSC, Merven J, Raffin J, Bouwman H. Impacts of a shallow shipwreck on a coral reef: A case study from St. Brandon's Atoll, Mauritius, Indian Ocean. Mar Environ Res 2020; 156:104916. [PMID: 32174336 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2020.104916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Shallow shipwrecks, can have severe ecological and toxicological impacts on coral atolls. In 2012, a tuna longliner ran aground on the reef crest of St Brandon's Atoll, Mauritius, broke up into three pieces which was moved by currents and storms into the lagoon. In the months following the grounding, the coral around the wreck became dead and black. Down-current from the wreck, a dense bloom of filamentous algae (Ulva sp.) attached to coral occurred. To determine the ecological effects of the wreck on the system, the marine biota around the wreck, in the algal bloom, and fish reference zones were counted in 2014. Metal concentrations in reference and affected coral was determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS). A pronounced difference was seen in the metal concentration pattern between coral from the wreck- and algal zones, and the coral reference zone. While the wreck zone contained the highest abundance of fish, the fish reference zone had the highest species diversity but with fewer fish. We also counted eleven Critically Endangered hawksbill sea turtles Eretmochelys imbricata and significantly more sea cucumbers in the algal zone than the reference zones. The effects of shipwrecks on coral reefs must be considered a threat over periods of years and should be studied further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica van der Schyff
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Marinus du Preez
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Karin Blom
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Henrik Kylin
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Thematic Studies - Environmental Change, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | | | - Jovani Raffin
- Shoals Rodrigues, Marine Non-governmental Organisation, Rodrigues Island, Mauritius
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Quinn LP, Roos C, Pieters R, Polder A, Bouwman H. Brominated flame retardants in wild bird eggs from the industrialised heartland of South Africa. African Zoology 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2019.1671895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- LP Quinn
- National Metrology Institute of South Africa, Lynnwood, South Africa
| | - C Roos
- Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - R Pieters
- Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - A Polder
- Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Norway
| | - H Bouwman
- Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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20
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Veldsman LM, Kylin H, Bronkhorst P, Engelbrecht I, Bouwman H. A method to determine the combined effects of climate change (temperature and humidity) and eggshell thickness on water loss from bird eggs. Environ Geochem Health 2020; 42:781-793. [PMID: 30864071 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-019-00274-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Differences in bird eggshell thicknesses occur due to numerous factors, including thinning due to persistent organic pollutants. Not only does thinning weaken the shell; weaker shells combined with elevated ambient temperature and changes in humidities may result in changes in water loss rates from the egg contents. Therefore, thinner eggshells raise concern of water being lost faster than normal at lower relative humidities, which may affect hatching. To investigate the combined effects, we developed and tested an effective method that measures water loss through different thickness eggshells at controlled temperatures and relative humidities to assist in ascertaining the combined effects of climate change (temperature and humidity) and changes in eggshell thickness on bird reproduction. The fastest rate of loss was at 40% RH at 40 °C (0.1 mL/cm2/day), and the slowest was at 22 °C at 80% RH (0.02 mL/cm2/day). Eggshell thickness had a significant effect on water loss at all humidity treatments, except at the highest temperature and humidity treatment (80% RH and 40 °C). Temperature explained 40% of the variance, RH explained 20%, and interactions between temperature and humidity explained 15% of the variance (repeated-measures, two-way ANOVA). Generalized linear analyses revealed that both factors temperature and humidity contributed significantly in any two-way combinations. We have laid the ground for a system to test the combined effects of temperature and humidity changes associated with climate change and eggshell thinning associated with pollutants, on water loss across eggshells.
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Affiliation(s)
- L-M Veldsman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - H Kylin
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- Department of Thematic Studies - Environmental Change, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - P Bronkhorst
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - I Engelbrecht
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
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Nantaba F, Wasswa J, Kylin H, Palm WU, Bouwman H, Kümmerer K. Occurrence, distribution, and ecotoxicological risk assessment of selected pharmaceutical compounds in water from Lake Victoria, Uganda. Chemosphere 2020; 239:124642. [PMID: 31521936 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.124642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of 24 pharmaceuticals (including 15 antibiotics, three analgesic/anti-inflammatory drugs, three anti-epileptic/antidepressant drugs, two beta blockers, and one lipid regulator) was investigated in 75 water samples collected from four bays in the Ugandan part of Lake Victoria. In addition, the potential environmental risk of the target pharmaceutical compounds to aquatic organisms in the aquatic ecosystem of Lake Victoria was assessed. Water samples were extracted using solid phase extraction and analyzed for pharmaceuticals using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). Eighteen of the 24 pharmaceuticals occurred at quantifiable concentrations. Sulfamethoxazole (1-5600 ng L-1), trimethoprim (1-89 ng L-1), tetracycline (3-70 ng L-1), sulfacetamide (1-13 ng L-1), and ibuprofen (6-780 ng L-1) occurred at quantifiable concentrations in all water samples. Sulfamethazine (2-50 ng L-1), erythromycin (10-66 ng L-1), diclofenac (2-160 ng L-1), and carbamazepine (5-72 ng L-1) were only quantifiable in water samples from Murchison Bay. The highest concentrations of pharmaceuticals were found in Murchison Bay, the main recipient of sewage effluents, industrial and municipal waste from Kampala city via the Nakivubo channel. Ecotoxicological risk assessment showed that sulfamethoxazole, oxytetracycline, erythromycin, and diclofenac pose a high toxic risk to aquatic organisms in the lake, while ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, and ibuprofen pose a medium risk. This study is the first of its kind to report the levels and ecotoxic risks of pharmaceutical compounds in Lake Victoria waters, of Uganda, and East Africa as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Nantaba
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda; Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - John Wasswa
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henrik Kylin
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Thematic Research - Environmental Change, Linköping University, SE-58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Wolf-Ulrich Palm
- Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Klaus Kümmerer
- Institute of Sustainable and Environmental Chemistry, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany.
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van der Schyff V, Kwet Yive NSC, Bouwman H. Metal concentrations in corals from South Africa and the Mascarene Basin: A first assessment for the Western Indian Ocean. Chemosphere 2020; 239:124784. [PMID: 31520976 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.124784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Little knowledge exists on the state of metal contamination in corals from the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Fragments of four soft and five hard coral genera were collected from five sites in the WIO- Sodwana Bay and Aliwal Shoal from South Africa, and Agalega, Rodrigues, and St. Brandon's Rock from the Mascarene Basin. Fragments were analysed for 31 metallic elements using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Corals from the WIO contained lower concentrations of most metals than corals from the Red Sea. South African corals contained higher concentrations of most of the metallic elements than the Mascarene corals. Sinularia was the coral with the most elements at the highest mean concentrations. A very high concentration of Ni was found in Sinularia (1300 mg/kg dm) from Sodwana Bay. Corals from the Mascarene Islands, especially Agalega, had comparatively low concentrations and could serve as a benchmark for corals from other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica van der Schyff
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | | | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Wu Q, Bouwman H, Uren RC, van der Lingen CD, Vetter W. Halogenated natural products and anthropogenic persistent organic pollutants in chokka squid (Loligo reynaudii) from three sites along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts of South Africa. Environ Pollut 2019; 255:113282. [PMID: 31563788 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Chokka squid (Loligo reynaudii) from three sites along the South African coast were analyzed for halogenated natural products (HNPs) and anthropogenic persistent organic pollutants (POPs). HNPs were generally more than one order of magnitude more abundant than POPs. The most prevalent pollutant, i.e. the HNP 2,3,3',4,4',5,5'-heptachloro-1'-methyl-1,2'-bipyrrole (Q1), was detected in all chokka squid samples with mean concentrations of 105, 98 and 45 ng/g lipid mass, respectively, at the Indian Ocean (site A), between both oceans (site B) and the South Atlantic Ocean (site C). In addition, bromine containing polyhalogenated 1'-methyl-1,2'-bipyrroles (PMBPs), 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP, up to 28 ng/g lipid mass), polybrominated methoxy diphenyl ethers, MHC-1, TBMP and other HNPs were also detected. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were the predominant class of anthropogenic POPs. PCB 153 was the most abundant PCB congener in chokka squid from the Indian Ocean, and PCB 138 in samples from the South Atlantic Ocean and between both oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wu
- University of Hohenheim, Institute of Food Chemistry, Garbenstraße 28, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Ryan C Uren
- Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Carl D van der Lingen
- Fisheries Management, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Cape Town, South Africa; Marine Research Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Walter Vetter
- University of Hohenheim, Institute of Food Chemistry, Garbenstraße 28, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany.
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24
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Aznar-Alemany Ò, Sala B, Plön S, Bouwman H, Barceló D, Eljarrat E. Halogenated and organophosphorus flame retardants in cetaceans from the southwestern Indian Ocean. Chemosphere 2019; 226:791-799. [PMID: 30965250 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.03.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
PBDEs, HBCD, DBDPE, PBEB and HBB, dechloranes and OPFRs, as well as natural MeO-PBDEs were monitored in muscle tissue of three dolphin species from the southwestern Indian Ocean (Delphinus delphis, Sousa plumbea and Tursiops aduncus) collected between 2012 and 2015. The mean PBDE concentration was 416 ± 333 ng g-1 lw. BDE-47 was found in all samples and was almost half the total PBDE contamination. BDE-209, BDE-100 and BDE-99 were present in ≥85% of the samples. HBCD was detected in just two samples at 20 and 330 ng g-1 lw. PBEB and HBB were not detected, while DBDPE was in all samples but always below its limit of quantification. Dec 602 was the only quantifiable dechlorane at 232 ± 549 ng g-1 lw. Mean OPFR concentration was 10452 ± 11301 ng g-1 lw. TBOEP was found in all samples making up most of the total OPFR contamination. MeO-PBDEs were detected in all samples at 114 ± 137 ng g-1 lw. Data on flame retardants in biota and environmental samples from the southwestern Indian Ocean are scarce and, as a result, comparisons are difficult. However, data from other marine predators in the region, such as penguins, suggest that further studies are needed to determine if these concentrations are the consequence of a high local contamination or widespread thoughout the Indian Ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Òscar Aznar-Alemany
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC); Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Berta Sala
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC); Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Stephanie Plön
- Earth Stewardship Science Research Institute (ESSRI), Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 6031, South Africa.
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Damià Barceló
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC); Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), Emili Grahit, 101, 17003, Girona, Spain.
| | - Ethel Eljarrat
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC); Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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25
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de Vor S, Bouwman H, Abusaris C. To pee or not to pee a trial to establish a valid method to determine if the bladder function has returned during thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA). Clin Nutr ESPEN 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2019.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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26
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Bouwman H, Yohannes YB, Nakayama SMM, Motohira K, Ishizuka M, Humphries MS, van der Schyff V, du Preez M, Dinkelmann A, Ikenaka Y. Evidence of impacts from DDT in pelican, cormorant, stork, and egret eggs from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Chemosphere 2019; 225:647-658. [PMID: 30901658 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
DDT remains in use for malaria control in South Africa. We quantified DDTs in aquatic bird eggs from the highly biodiverse northern KwaZulu-Natal, a province of South Africa where DDT has been used for more than 80 years for malaria control. Pelican eggs had the highest ΣDDT concentration (7200 ng/g lipid mass; lm), Little Egret eggs had 6900 ΣDDT lm, African Openbill eggs had 3400 ng/g lm ΣDDT, and White-breasted Cormorant had 2400 ng/g lm. All species had non-significantly different mean concentrations of o,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDT, and ΣDDT, but with significant differences for p,p-DDE, o,p'-DDD, p,p'-DDD, %DDT, %DDD, and %lipid. The thinnest pelican eggshell (0.40 mm) had a ΣDDT concentration of 3300 ng/g lm.; the thickest shell (0.96 mm) had the lowest ΣDDT concentration at 29 ng/g lm; a 58% difference. Linear regressions of concentrations with shell thickness for the pelican eggs were significant for p,p'-DDE and p,p'-DDD, indicating risk of reproductive impairment. Compositional profiles indicate different food webs for the different species. DDT concentrations were lower than from another DDT-sprayed locality in South Africa, possible linked to differences in hydrology and rainfall. We conclude that significant ecotoxic threats associated with DDT remain in this area, and possibly threatens birds from less polluted areas. Our findings suggest continued negative human health and environmental impacts from DDT. There is an urgency to move away from DDT as quickly as possible; alternatively, to implement practices that prevent emissions of DDT to the environment while protecting human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Bouwman
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Y B Yohannes
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan; Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Computational Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - S M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - K Motohira
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - M Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - M S Humphries
- Molecular Sciences Institute, School of Chemistry, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - V van der Schyff
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - M du Preez
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - A Dinkelmann
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Y Ikenaka
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa; Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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27
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van Aswegen JD, Nel L, Strydom NA, Minnaar K, Kylin H, Bouwman H. Comparing the metallic elemental compositions of Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus eggs and eggshells from the Swartkops Estuary, Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Chemosphere 2019; 221:533-542. [PMID: 30660910 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Metals attributed to pollution may increase their concentrations above the geological background and pose toxic challenges towards humans and biota. We analysed sixteen Kelp Gull eggs and eggshells for 30 metallic elements from the Swartkops Estuary (SE), an important recreational, industrial, and ecological asset for Port Elizabeth, the region, and South Africa. Mean concentrations for eggshell and egg content for Hg was 0.02 and 0.4 mg/kg dm, Cr was 4 and 18 mg/kg dm (the highest yet recorded for any gull or tern egg), for Zn 2.1 and 62 mg/kg dm, for Sr 880 and 12 mg/kg dm, for V 170 and 1.3 mg/kg dm, and for Co 1.7 and 0.002 mg/kg dm, respectively. Zinc, Se, and Hg, increased on a dry-mass basis from sediment via small fish to gull egg content, indicating bioaccumulation. No effect on eggshell thickness was seen. We also determined that eggshell concentrations cannot be used as a proxy for egg content concentrations. Mercury, Cr, V, Co, and Zn were elements we identified as potentially problematic that require source identification and mitigation. Further research into other high-trophic animals such as herons, egrets, cormorants, and otters in the SE system is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D van Aswegen
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - L Nel
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - N A Strydom
- Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - K Minnaar
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - H Kylin
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Thematic Studies - Environmental Change, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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28
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Steyn L, Hoffman J, Bouwman H, Maina AW, Maina JN. Bone density and asymmetry are not related to DDT in House Sparrows: Insights from micro-focus X-ray computed tomography. Chemosphere 2018; 212:734-743. [PMID: 30179838 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.08.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In organisms, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and its metabolites, DDE (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene) and DDD (Dichlorobischlorophenylethane) are endocrine mimics. They can influence bone density and other bone structural features. This study was conducted on House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) caught from the Free State - and the Limpopo Provinces of South Africa (SA). The sites were chosen based on spraying patterns of DDT for malaria control or non-spraying. The bone mineral densities of the femurs as well as the lengths of the left- and right leg bones were determined using micro-focus X-ray computed tomography (μ-XCT). The concentrations of DDT and its metabolites in the liver were determined with gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry to provide baseline concentrations of DDT in the body, allowing comparison of the various groups of birds. There was no asymmetry between the lengths of the bones of the left- and the right legs. DDT concentrations in the liver did not correlate with bone lengths. In addition, there were no significant differences between the relative densities of the left- and right leg bones with increase of concentrations of DDT. The concentrations of DDT and its metabolites did not have a significant effect on the measured bone parameters of House Sparrows. It is possible that the concentrations of DDT and its metabolites in the environments were too low to be injurious to the birds and/or tolerance to the insecticide has developed in the birds over more than six decades of almost continuous application of DDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Steyn
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, South Africa.
| | - J Hoffman
- Department of Radiation Science, South African Nuclear Energy Corporation, (Necsa), Pelindaba, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - A W Maina
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa; Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - J N Maina
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, South Africa
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29
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van Gessellen N, Bouwman H, Averbuj A. Imposex assessment and tributyltin levels in sediments along the Atlantic coast of South Africa. Mar Environ Res 2018; 142:32-39. [PMID: 30262123 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2018.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Female marine gastropods develop imposex (growth of penis/vas deferens) when exposed to TBT (tributyltin). Ours, is the first report of an imposex survey associated with TBT in sediment along 920 km of South Africa's Atlantic coastline. We sampled and analysed 1389 individuals of 13 caenogastropod species, and sediment samples from 25 sites, presumed impacted and not impacted by TBT pollution. Imposex was detected in six species not previously reported to suffer from this phenomenon, at eight sites, with up to 100% of females affected. Butyltins were found at quantifiable concentrations at four sites, with TBT and DBT (dibutyltin) concentrations in sediments up to 20 000 μg/kg dry mass (dm) and 3740 μg/kg dm, respectively. These findings are of major concern considering that TBT has been banned globally since 2008 by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) - more extensive research is required in areas affected by TBT and where aquaculture is present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole van Gessellen
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Mafikeng, South Africa.
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Andres Averbuj
- LARBIM - IBIOMAR, CCT - CONICET-CENPAT, Puerto Madryn, Argentina
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30
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Lesch V, Bouwman H. Adult dragonflies are indicators of environmental metallic elements. Chemosphere 2018; 209:654-665. [PMID: 29960194 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Adult dragonflies (Insecta; Odonata) are aerial predatory arthropods that occur globally except in the polar regions. However, we know of no research on adult dragonflies as potential indicators of metallic elements in the environment or metallic element concentrations and relative contribution patterns between sites, species, size classes, habitat types, and relation to possible pollution sources. There is also no information available about adult dragonflies and their responses to toxic metals. However, metallic elements are toxic in elevated concentrations to all organisms. We predict that adult dragonflies would be suitable indicators of elemental concentrations. We analysed 105 adult male dragonflies from 21 sites in South Africa for 33 metallic elements including Hg, As, Pb, Cr, Cu, Cd, Ni, Se, Al, and Au. The results indicated that all species of dragonflies, regardless of body size, are suitable indicators. Furthermore, different aquatic habitat types did not affect the metallic element concentrations at the scale of this study. Dragonflies collected near wastewater treatment plants showed concentrations of certain elements such as Au higher than from elsewhere. Elements such as As and Pb were found at elevated concentrations (relative to the other sites) in dragonflies collected near mines. Dragonflies from sampling sites near potential pollution sources, but had seemingly isolated water sources, showed lower metallic element concentrations when compared with other sites. We conclude that adult dragonflies would be good indicators of environmental metallic elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velesia Lesch
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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31
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Roux Klem
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management North‐West University Potchefstroom South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management North‐West University Potchefstroom South Africa
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32
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Steyn L, Bouwman H, Maina JN. Associations between DDT and egg parameters of the House Sparrow Passer domesticus from the Thohoyandou area of South Africa. Chemosphere 2018; 198:249-256. [PMID: 29421736 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.01.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated whether the pesticide DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and its metabolites, DDE (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene) and DDD (Dichlorobischlorophenylethane) were associated with adverse effects on multiple endpoints of the eggs of House Sparrows from the Thohoyandou area in South Africa, where DDT is used for malaria control. Eggshell thickness, pore numbers, pore shapes, and volume densities of the pores were measured to test possible adverse effects. Analysis was done using a scanning electron microscope and the concentrations of the pesticides were determined with the aid of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The highest concentrations recorded was p,p'-DDE at 0.84 μg/g wm (wet mass) in the eggs collected from Mangondi (a site last sprayed five years before sampling). Overall, the concentrations of total DDT recorded in this study were lower than reported by most other studies conducted in the same area. The association between DDT concentrations and House Sparrows eggshells were noticeable in the eggshell thicknesses, with significant differences between the eggs collected from Muledane (a site last sprayed 30 years before sampling) and Makula (a site sprayed both years of sampling) (P < 0.0022). Limited differences were found between the pore numbers and pore density of eggshells from the various sites. It may be that the limited effect on the pore numbers and volume densities of the pores are associated with low concentrations of DDT in the House Sparrow eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Steyn
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, South Africa.
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa.
| | - J N Maina
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, South Africa
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33
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Pheiffer W, Quinn LP, Bouwman H, Smit NJ, Pieters R. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments from a typical urban impacted river: application of a comprehensive risk assessment. Ecotoxicology 2018; 27:336-351. [PMID: 29404865 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-018-1898-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Soweto and Lenasia, the most densely populated area of South Africa, is simultaneously a thriving metropolis, with a fair share of people still living in squalor conditions directly dependant on the natural resources. Because of industrialisation the populace and environment in this urban area are exposed to various pollutants. The aquatic environment was selected as a proxy to study the effect of industrial pollution in this area. The concentrations, source identification, and various environmental risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in sediments of the upper reaches of the Klip River. Composite sediment samples collected in low-flow conditions in 2013 and 2014 ranged from 270-5400 ng/g. The PAHs in this aquatic ecosystem were dominated by 4-ring congeners and could be attributed to combustion of organic fuels by chemical mass balance. Heavy traffic and industrial complexes in the northern part of the study area were responsible for the PAH fingerprints. Probable adverse effects such as toxicity to benthic biota were proven after comparison with international sediment quality guidelines (SQG) both survey years. Toxic equivalence quotients (TEQs) calculated for the sediments using fish potency factors (FPFs) were up to 30 times greater than the Canadian guideline for dioxin-like compounds, indicating high probability of carcinogenic effect to fish mediated through the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor. Finally, sediments in the area posed moderate to high ecological risk, which corroborates the other toxicity assessments. The advantage of investigating multiple risk endpoints, is the comprehensive results obtained that allows for a more realistic representation of the study area. Consequently more aspects are kept into account that results in better conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wihan Pheiffer
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Laura P Quinn
- National Metrology Institute of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Nico J Smit
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Rialet Pieters
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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34
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du Preez M, Nel R, Bouwman H. First report of metallic elements in loggerhead and leatherback turtle eggs from the Indian Ocean. Chemosphere 2018; 197:716-728. [PMID: 29407836 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.01.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Bio-monitoring of pollutants in long-lived animals such as sea turtles is an important tool in ecotoxicology. We present the first report on metallic elements in sea turtle eggs from the Indian Ocean. Eggs of the leatherback and loggerhead turtle that breed on the Indian Ocean coast of South Africa were analysed for 30 elements. The eggshells and egg contents of the loggerhead turtle, the smaller of the two species, had higher or significantly higher concentrations than leatherbacks, except for strontium - the reason is unknown. Elemental concentrations in eggshells and contents were the same or lower compared with other studies. The differences in concentrations in the egg contents and eggshells between the two species are likely due to different trophic levels, migration patterns, life histories, age, and growth, as well as differences in pollution sources and the uptake, retention and elimination characteristics of the different elements by the different species. We found no congruence between patterns in eggshells and corresponding egg contents, for both species. However, eggshells and egg contents showed congruence between species. The lack of congruence between eggshells and contents within each species precludes using eggshell concentrations as a proxy for egg content concentrations. Copper, strontium, and selenium occurred at concentrations higher than available toxic reverence values. Further research is warranted, including the analyses of POPs, as well as possible deme discrimination based on compositional pattern differences. Turtles serve as 'active samplers' returning to the same location to breed-something that is not practical with marine mammals or elasmobranchs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M du Preez
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - R Nel
- Department of Zoology and Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
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35
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Kylin H, Svensson T, Jensen S, Strachan WMJ, Franich R, Bouwman H. The trans-continental distributions of pentachlorophenol and pentachloroanisole in pine needles indicate separate origins. Environ Pollut 2017; 229:688-695. [PMID: 28711567 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The production and use of pentachlorophenol (PCP) was recently prohibited/restricted by the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants (POPs), but environmental data are few and of varying quality. We here present the first extensive dataset of the continent-wide (Eurasia and Canada) occurrence of PCP and its methylation product pentachloroanisole (PCA) in the environment, specifically in pine needles. The highest concentrations of PCP were found close to expected point sources, while PCA chiefly shows a northern and/or coastal distribution not correlating with PCP distribution. Although long-range transport and environmental methylation of PCP or formation from other precursors cannot be excluded, the distribution patterns suggest that such processes may not be the only source of PCA to remote regions and unknown sources should be sought. We suggest that natural sources, e.g., chlorination of organic matter in Boreal forest soils enhanced by chloride deposition from marine sources, should be investigated as a possible partial explanation of the observed distributions. The results show that neither PCA nor total PCP (ΣPCP = PCP + PCA) should be used to approximate the concentrations of PCP; PCP and PCA must be determined and quantified separately to understand their occurrence and fate in the environment. The background work shows that the accumulation of airborne POPs in plants is a complex process. The variations in life cycles and physiological adaptations have to be taken into account when using plants to evaluate the concentrations of POPs in remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Kylin
- Department of Thematic Studies - Environmental Change, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden; Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Teresia Svensson
- Department of Thematic Studies - Environmental Change, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sören Jensen
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Science, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - William M J Strachan
- Aquatic Ecosystem Protection Research Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 867 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington, ON L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Robert Franich
- Scion, Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, 49 Sala Street, Rotorua 3046, New Zealand
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Mapunda EC, Othman OC, Akwilapo LD, Bouwman H, Mwevura H. Concentrations of metallic elements in kidney, liver, and lung tissue of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin Tursiops aduncus from coastal waters of Zanzibar, Tanzania. Mar Pollut Bull 2017; 122:483-487. [PMID: 28662978 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.06.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of metallic elements in kidney, liver and lung tissues of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins Tursiops aduncus from coastal waters of Zanzibar were determined using inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectroscopy. Cadmium, chromium, copper, and zinc were quantifiable in all tissues at concentration ranges of 0.10-150, 0.08-3.2, 1.1-88 and 14-210μg/g dry mass, respectively. Copper and zinc was significantly higher in liver, and females had significantly higher Cd in liver, and chromium in lung. Generally, T. aduncus dolphins from coastal waters around Zanzibar carry low concentrations of metals compared with dolphins from other areas. Cadmium increased significantly with age in kidney and lung. Copper decreased significantly with age in liver, probably due to foetal metallothionein. This study supplied baseline data against which future trends in marine mammals in the Indian Ocean, the world's third largest, can be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar C Mapunda
- Chemistry Department, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 35061, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Othman C Othman
- Chemistry Department, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 35061, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Leonard D Akwilapo
- Chemistry Department, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 35061, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, P Bag X 6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Haji Mwevura
- Department of Natural Science, State University of Zanzibar, P.O. Box:146, Zanzibar, Tanzania.
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Bornman MS, Aneck-Hahn NH, de Jager C, Wagenaar GM, Bouwman H, Barnhoorn IEJ, Patrick SM, Vandenberg LN, Kortenkamp A, Blumberg B, Kimmins S, Jegou B, Auger J, DiGangi J, Heindel JJ. Endocrine Disruptors and Health Effects in Africa: A Call for Action. Environ Health Perspect 2017; 125:085005. [PMID: 28935616 PMCID: PMC5783641 DOI: 10.1289/ehp1774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Africa faces a number of unique environmental challenges. Unfortunately, it lacks the infrastructure needed to support the comprehensive environmental studies that could provide the scientific basis to inform environmental policies. There are a number of known sources of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and other hazardous chemicals in Africa. However, a coordinated approach to identify and monitor these contaminants and to develop strategies for public health interventions has not yet been made. OBJECTIVES This commentary summarizes the scientific evidence presented by experts at the First African Endocrine Disruptors meeting. We describe a "call to action" to utilize the available scientific knowledge to address the impact of EDCs on human and wildlife health in Africa. DISCUSSION We identify existing knowledge gaps about exposures to EDCs in Africa and describe how well-designed research strategies are needed to address these gaps. A lack of resources for research and a lag in policy implementation slows down intervention strategies and poses a challenge to advancing future health in Africa. CONCLUSION To address the many challenges posed by EDCs, we argue that Africans should take the lead in prioritization and evaluation of environmental hazards, including EDCs. We recommend the institution of education and training programs for chemical users, adoption of the precautionary principle, establishment of biomonitoring programs, and funding of community-based epidemiology and wildlife research programs led and funded by African institutes and private companies. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1774.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria S Bornman
- Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Environmental Chemical Pollution and Health Research Unit, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Natalie H Aneck-Hahn
- Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Environmental Chemical Pollution and Health Research Unit, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Urology, University of Pretoria , Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Christiaan de Jager
- Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Environmental Chemical Pollution and Health Research Unit, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gesina M Wagenaar
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg , Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University , Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | | | - Sean M Patrick
- Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Environmental Chemical Pollution and Health Research Unit, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Laura N Vandenberg
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences , Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andreas Kortenkamp
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London , Uxbridge, UK
| | - Bruce Blumberg
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine , Irvine, California, USA
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University , Montreal, Canada
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University , Montreal, Canada
| | - Bernard Jegou
- Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (IRSET-INSERM UMR 1085 ), Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) , Rennes, France
- Ecole des Hautes Études en Santé Publique (EHESP) , Rennes, France
| | - Jacques Auger
- INSERM U1016, Equipe Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de la Reproduction, Institut Cochin, Université Paris Descartes , Paris, France
| | - Joseph DiGangi
- International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN) , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jerrold J Heindel
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services , Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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Abstract
With tourism in South Africa expanding, the number of avitourists increases. The increase in infrastructure and human activities in protected areas, if not managed properly, can be harmful to birds. Flight initiation distances (FID) can be used as a method to monitor habituation to disturbances. This study was performed at the Barberspan Bird Sanctuary, North West province, South Africa, to determine the levels of habituation among waterbirds and make appropriate recommendations regarding the management of the reserve. Our results indicated a 0.29 m increase in FID per gram reported mean biomass. Compared with conspecific or congeneric birds from Australia, Europe and North America, South African birds have relatively larger FIDs to human disturbance, which may indicate lower habituation. We also calculated buffer zones based on the maximum FID of the waterbirds for three mass groups. These buffer zones were then matched with the spatial distribution of the birds along the shoreline. We recommend that the mean FID for the blacksmith lapwing, Vanellus armatus (62 m), can be used as approach distance outside the breeding season in areas where the birds are sparsely distributed and 104 m during the breeding season in breeding areas. A large buffer of 200 m is suggested for areas with threatened, sensitive and skittish species. However, it is still preferable for avitourists to use the bird hides along the shores.Conservation implications: This study provides information for conservation management at Barberspan, based on typical birder activity. Smaller birds would need smaller buffer zones, while larger birds need much greater distances from observers to minimise disturbance. Similar studies can be applied elsewhere.
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Verster C, Minnaar K, Bouwman H. Marine and freshwater microplastic research in South Africa. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017; 13:533-535. [PMID: 28440929 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.1900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
South Africa has a vibrant plastics manufacturing industry, but recycling is limited and insufficient with a notable proportion of the unmanaged waste entering the environment. South Africa is a developing country with microplastics research in its inception. Very little is known about freshwater microplastics, and studies on South African marine microplastics are limited but actively being pursued. In a water-scarce country, protection of freshwater resources remains a priority, but in the face of other socioeconomic issues (poverty, unemployment, and HIV/AIDS), it receives insufficiently effective attention. The full impact and risks of microplastics pollution in water is yet to be discovered. The risks may be enhanced in a developing country where many communities remain largely dependent on the land and natural waters. With South Africa being a water-scarce country, the quality of its aquatic resources is at an even greater risk with an assumed increasing background of microplastics, emphasizing the need for further research. A South African Water Research Commission-funded project is being undertaken to derive research priorities, but there is an immediate need for improved recycling and waste management. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:533-535. © 2017 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Verster
- North-West University, Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, Potchefstroom, North West Province, South Africa
| | - Karin Minnaar
- North-West University, Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, Potchefstroom, North West Province, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- North-West University, Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, Potchefstroom, North West Province, South Africa
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Lesch V, Bouwman H, Kinoshita A, Shibata Y. First report of perfluoroalkyl substances in South African Odonata. Chemosphere 2017; 175:153-160. [PMID: 28211329 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorinated substances are global and ubiquitous pollutants. However, very little is known about these substances in invertebrates, and even less in terrestrial invertebrates in particular. We analysed adult male dragonflies from six sites in South Africa for perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), including perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), perfluro-n-undecanoic acid (PFUnA), perfluoro-n-dodecanoic acid (PFDoA), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS). PFOS was detected in all individuals, with less quantifiable occurrences of the other substances. The dragonflies from the three northern sites located in farming areas had significantly lower ΣPFASs concentrations than the southern sites located closer to industrial areas (median ΣPFASs of 0.32 ng/g wm (wet mass) for North, and 9.3 ng/g wm for South). All substances except PFOS occurred at similar concentrations at all six sites when quantifiable, but PFOS dominated in the Southern sites. The highest median concentration was from Bloemhof Dam (ΣPFASs = 21 ng/g wm), which is known to be polluted by PFOS. Perfluorinated substances are not known to be manufactured in South Africa, therefore the residues detected are likely to have been derived from imported products. Odonata play a significant role in freshwater ecology. Any impacts on these aquatic and aerial predators are likely to have effects on aquatic and associated ecosystems. Further studies are required over a much larger geographic region and to investigate sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velesia Lesch
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Ayako Kinoshita
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Shibata
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Viljoen IM, Bornman R, Bouwman H. DDT exposure of frogs: A case study from Limpopo Province, South Africa. Chemosphere 2016; 159:335-341. [PMID: 27317939 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Amphibians are globally under pressure with environmental contaminants contributing to this. Despite caution aired more than 80 years ago of threats posed to amphibians by DDT spraying for disease vector control, no data have been published on concentrations or effects of DDT contamination in frogs from areas where DDT is actively sprayed to control the insect vectors of malaria. In this study, we sampled fat bodies of Xenopus laevis and Xenopus muelleri naturally occurring in an area where indoor residual spraying of DDT is employed and from adjacent, non-sprayed, areas. ΣDDT concentrations ranged between <LOQ and 280 ng/g ww (wet weight) from the non-sprayed area, and 5.5-910 ng/g ww from the sprayed area, but statistical significance could not be shown. We observed significant asymmetric testicular morphology in frogs from the sprayed area, possibly due to endocrine disruption by compounds such as the DDTs. A previous study from the same area found very high concentrations of DDT in the eggs of the Grey Heron Ardea cinerea. This suggests that the DDT we found in frogs may have contributed to DDT loadings higher in the food web. These findings, combined with other studies from this area, support the need to reduce and eventually move away from DDT in malaria control safely and sustainably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignatius M Viljoen
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; SA Medical Research Council Centre for TB Research, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505, South Africa.
| | - Riana Bornman
- SA Medical Research Council Centre & University of Pretoria Centre for Sustainable Malaria Control (MRC & UP CSMC), School of Health, Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
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van der Schyff V, Pieters R, Bouwman H. The heron that laid the golden egg: metals and metalloids in ibis, darter, cormorant, heron, and egret eggs from the Vaal River catchment, South Africa. Environ Monit Assess 2016; 188:372. [PMID: 27230424 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5378-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Metal pollution issues are afforded the highest priority in developing countries. Only one previous study has addressed metals in African bird eggs. We determined the concentration of metals and metalloids in bird eggs from four sites in the Vaal River catchment (VRC) of South Africa to provide data on the current situation. We analysed 16 pools of 77 heron, ibis, darter, egret, and cormorant eggs for 18 metals and metalloids using ICP-MS. We found high concentrations of gold (Au), uranium (U), thallium (Tl), and platinum (Pt) in Grey Heron eggs from Baberspan. Great white egrets from Bloemhof Dam had high concentrations of mercury (Hg). Multivariate analyses revealed strong associations between Au and U, and between palladium (Pd) and Pt. The toxic reference value (TRV) for Hg was exceeded in seven pools. Selenium exceeded its TRV in one pool; in the same pool, copper (Cu) reached its TRV. Compared with other studies, VRC bird eggs had high concentrations of contaminants. Based on these high concentrations, human health might be at risk as Grey Herons and humans share similar food and are therefore exposed to the same contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- V van der Schyff
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - R Pieters
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinus du Preez
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management; North-West University; Private Bag X6001 Potchefstroom 2520 South Africa
| | - Danny Govender
- Veterinary Wildlife Services; South African National Parks; Private Bag X402 Skukuza 1350 South Africa
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences; University of Pretoria; Private Bag X04 Onderstepoort 0110 South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management; North-West University; Private Bag X6001 Potchefstroom 2520 South Africa
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Abstract
Research and conservation of wild crocodiles and husbandry of captive crocodiles requires the reliable identification of individuals. We present a method using the individual colour markings on the first 10 single-crest scutes on the tails of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus). The scutes are scored by number for colour, with a prefix for left or right providing a binary 11-digit identification number (identification numbers [IDs]; e.g. 12232232242 and 22333233232) per crocodile. A survey of 359 captive Nile crocodiles showed no duplication. However, 42% had asymmetrical scute markings requiring a binary approach. There does not seem to be a change in patterns with age, except that the number of missing scutes increased. A small trial showed that this method can be applied in the field, although more work is needed to determine observer bias and establish parameters for observability in the field. It is unlikely that both left and right IDs would be obtainable for each individual, but other distinctive markings such as scute shape and damage can be used to register the two IDs to one individual. Having two independent IDs for each crocodile provides the possibility of two independent population estimates for equal effort without having to link left and right IDs to individuals. Our proposed method would be useful in conservation, individual tracking and husbandry.Conservation implications: A non-invasive marking and recapture method for Nile crocodile is presented whereby the first 10 single-crest scutes are scored for colour, allowing conservation practitioners to count and monitor crocodile populations and individuals. This method provides two equal-effort estimations of population size, as left and right hand sides are scored independently.Keywords: Crocodylus niloticus; identification; mark - recapture; mark - resight
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Bouwman H, Evans SW, Cole N, Choong Kwet Yive NS, Kylin H. The flip-or-flop boutique: Marine debris on the shores of St Brandon's rock, an isolated tropical atoll in the Indian Ocean. Mar Environ Res 2016; 114:58-64. [PMID: 26763686 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Isolated coral atolls are not immune from marine debris accumulation. We identified Southeast Asia, the Indian sub-continent, and the countries on the Arabian Sea as most probable source areas of 50 000 items on the shores of St. Brandon's Rock (SBR), Indian Ocean. 79% of the debris was plastics. Flip-flops, energy drink bottles, and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) were notable item types. The density of debris (0.74 m(-)(1) shore length) is comparable to similar islands but less than mainland sites. Intact CFLs suggests product-facilitated long-range transport of mercury. We suspect that aggregated marine debris, scavenged by the islands from currents and gyres, could re-concentrate pollutants. SBR islets accumulated debris types in different proportions suggesting that many factors act variably on different debris types. Regular cleaning of selected islets will take care of most of the accumulated debris and may improve the ecology and tourism potential. However, arrangements and logistics require more study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Steven W Evans
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; SARCHI Chair on Biodiversity Value and Change, School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
| | - Nik Cole
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, Trinity, Jersey Channel Islands, UK; Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Grannum Road, Vacoas, Mauritius
| | | | - Henrik Kylin
- Research Unit, Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; Department of Thematic Studies - Environmental Change, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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46
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignatius M. Viljoen
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management; North-West University; Private Bag X6001 Potchefstroom 2520 South Africa
- SA MRC Centre for TB Research; DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research; Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Stellenbosch University; Francie van Zijl Drive Tygerberg 7505 South Africa
| | - Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Management; North-West University; Private Bag X6001 Potchefstroom 2520 South Africa
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Nel L, Strydom NA, Bouwman H. Preliminary assessment of contaminants in the sediment and organisms of the Swartkops Estuary, South Africa. Mar Pollut Bull 2015; 101:878-85. [PMID: 26593278 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Urban estuaries are susceptible to metal and organic pollution, yet most remain understudied in South Africa with respect to the presence, concentrations and distribution of contaminants. Metal and organic chemical concentrations were assessed in sediment and organisms from different trophic levels in the lower reaches of the Swartkops Estuary. Species sampled included Upogebia africana (Malacostraca: Upogebiidae), Gilchristella aestuaria (Clupeidae), Psammogobius knysnaensis (Gobiidae), Mugil cephalus (Mugilidae), Lichia amia (Carangidae), Argyrosomus japonicus (Sciaenidae), Pomadasys commersonnii (Haemulidae) and Larus dominicanus (Avis: Laridae). This study is one of the most comprehensive studies to date assessing pollution levels in a food web in estuaries in South Africa. Due to biomagnification, higher concentrations of Arsenic, Lead, Mercury and Cadmium were found in the juveniles stages of popular angling fishes. High concentrations of Cadmium and Arsenic were recorded in the liver of L. amia, A. japonicus and P. commersonnii which exceed international quality food guidelines. Eggs from the gull, L. dominicanus, showed detectable concentrations of PCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Nel
- Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, P.O. Box 1600, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa
| | - N A Strydom
- Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, P.O. Box 1600, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa.
| | - H Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Bouwman H, Govender D, Underhill L, Polder A. Chlorinated, brominated and fluorinated organic pollutants in African Penguin eggs: 30 years since the previous assessment. Chemosphere 2015; 126:1-10. [PMID: 25613517 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2014.12.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Revised: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The African Penguin population has drastically declined over the last 100 years. Changes in food availability due to over-fishing and other oceanographic changes seem to be major causes. However, it has also been 30 years since organic pollutants as a potential factor have been assessed. We analysed penguin eggs collected in 2011 and 2012 from two breeding colonies 640 km apart: Robben Island near Cape Town on the Atlantic Ocean coast, and Bird Island near Port Elizabeth on the Indian Ocean coast of South Africa. We quantified organochlorine pesticides, brominated flame retardants, and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs). Compared to 30 years ago, concentrations of ΣDDT have remained about the same or slightly lower, while ΣPCBs declined almost four-fold. The use of DDT in malaria control is unlikely to have contributed. PFCs were detected in all eggs. Indications (non-significant) of eggshell thinning associated with ΣDDT and ΣPCB was found. It seems therefore that the concentrations of measured organic pollutants the African Penguin eggs are not contributing directly to its current demise, but concerns remain about thinner shells and desiccation. Effects of combinations of compounds and newer compounds cannot be excluded, as well as more subtle effects on reproduction, development, and behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Danny Govender
- Scientific Services, SANParks, Skukuza, South Africa; Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Les Underhill
- Animal Demography Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Anuschka Polder
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Norway
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Bouwman H, Viljoen IM, Quinn LP, Polder A. Response to: Roberts, D.R., et al. on Bouwman, H. et al. Hallogenated pollutants in terrestrial and aquatic bird eggs: converging patterns of pollutant profiles, and impacts and risks from high levels. Env. Res. (2013) 〈http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2013.06.003i〉. Environ Res 2014; 132:459-460. [PMID: 24836987 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Ignatius M Viljoen
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Laura P Quinn
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; National Metrology Institute of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
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Bouwman H, Booyens P, Govender D, Pienaar D, Polder A. Chlorinated, brominated, and fluorinated organic pollutants in Nile crocodile eggs from the Kruger National Park, South Africa. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2014; 104:393-402. [PMID: 24703242 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2013.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Repeated annual episodes of Nile crocodile deaths in two isolated areas of the Kruger National Park prompted the investigation of possible organohalogen pollutant involvement. Crocodile eggs were collected close to one of the mortality sites (Gorge) as well as from a crocodile farm (CF) as reference. ∑DDT was significantly higher in Gorge (450ng/g wm) than in CF eggs (85ng/g wet mass). Percentage DDT of ∑DDT was significantly higher in CF (14 per cent) than in Gorge eggs (5 per cent). Mean ∑DDT was almost 70 times higher than mean ∑PCB in Gorge eggs. HCB, β-HCH, mirex, brominated flame retardants (BFRs), and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) occurred at lower concentrations. We believe that the BFR and PFCs data represent the first published results for any crocodile egg. Thickening of the outer eggshell layer of Gorge eggs was significantly associated with higher concentrations of ∑DDT. Concentrations of ∑DDT and other pollutants were in the same range as eggs from elsewhere, where there were no mortalities. Concentrations of ∑DDT in eggs from healthy Australian crocodiles were of the same orders of magnitude as the current study, making it highly unlikely that the concentrations of pollutants measured in the present study would have caused or substantially contributed towards the mortalities observed. Concerns about reproduction and behaviour remain. As large predators, crocodilians are at the apex of the freshwater aquatic food web. More research is needed to guide measures to manage African freshwater systems so that it will also sustainably accommodate these large, long-lived animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hindrik Bouwman
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Paul Booyens
- Research Unit: Environmental Sciences and Development, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Danny Govender
- Scientific Services, SANParks, Skukuza, South Africa; Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Danie Pienaar
- Scientific Services, SANParks, Skukuza, South Africa
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