Trace metal concentrations in southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) at Península Valdés, Argentina

The presence of essential (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni and Al) and non-essential trace metals (Cd and Pb) was tested in liver (N=26) and kidney (N=42) from dead Southern Right Whale (SRW--Eubalaena australis) calves found beached in Península Valdés, Argentina. Essential metals were detected in all samples, particularly in hepatic tissue; though Ni and Al were accumulated mainly in the kidney. Cd and Pb were not detected in any samples. Sex and length of calves did not influence metal levels found, nor did the geographic location of carcasses. Our findings for essential metals were similar to those reported for mysticetes in other parts of the world. Except for a previous report on one SRW calf, this is the first data on trace metals for this species in Patagonia. This information is vital for SRW management considering increasing human pressures impacting their feeding and breeding grounds.