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Toxic element concentrations in the Razorbill Alca torda (Charadriiformes, Alcidae) in Portugal
A R Ribeiro1, C Eira, J Torres
1CESAM and Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
|August 21, 2008
Summary
This study measured inorganic elements in razorbills (Alca torda), finding potential contamination risks from mercury and chromium. Age and tissue type significantly influenced element accumulation in these seabirds.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Avian ecology
- Marine biology
Background:
- Seabirds are sensitive indicators of marine ecosystem health.
- Heavy metal pollution poses risks to marine wildlife.
- Data on inorganic element accumulation in Portuguese razorbills is scarce.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify inorganic element levels in juvenile, immature, and adult razorbills.
- To investigate the influence of age and tissue type on element accumulation.
- To assess potential contamination risks and detoxification mechanisms in razorbills.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 28 razorbills (Alca torda) of varying ages from Portugal's central coast.
- Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for element quantification.
- Assessment of element concentrations in kidney, liver, muscle, and feathers.
Main Results:
- Detected mercury (Hg) and chromium (Cr) levels suggest potential contamination risks.
- Specific elements showed higher accumulation in certain tissues: Se and Cd in kidney, Zn and Pb in feathers, As and Mn in liver.
- Juveniles exhibited higher copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn) levels, indicating age-dependent accumulation.
Conclusions:
- Razorbills accumulate various inorganic elements, with levels influenced by age and tissue.
- Hg and Cr concentrations warrant attention for potential environmental contamination.
- Observed element relationships suggest shared accumulation/regulation pathways in seabird organs.
