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Elemental patterns in antarctic limpet shells indicate size and geographic differences based on gull pellet
Natalia Kurhaluk1,2, Piotr Kamiński3,4, Pavlo Khoyetskyy5
1Institute of Biology, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Słupsk, Poland, Arciszewski St. 22b, Słupsk, 76-200. natalia.kurhaluk@upsl.edu.pl.
Scientific Reports
|April 15, 2026
Summary
Seabird pellets reveal how kelp gulls transfer nutrients between Antarctic marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Shell analysis shows elemental signatures influenced by limpet age and local environments, highlighting ecological connectivity.
Area of Science:
- Marine-Invertebrate Ecology
- Biogeochemistry
- Seabird Ecology
- Polar Ecosystems
Background:
- Seabirds are crucial for Antarctic ecosystem connectivity, but their role in nutrient transfer, particularly concerning marine invertebrates, is poorly understood.
- Understanding marine-terrestrial nutrient exchange is vital for assessing polar ecosystem resilience and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biogeochemical consequences of seabird-limpet interactions in Antarctic ecosystems.
- To analyze elemental signatures in Nacella concinna shells from kelp gull pellets to understand nutrient transfer and ecological connectivity.
Main Methods:
- Collected Nacella concinna shells from kelp gull (Larus dominicanus) pellets across ten Antarctic islands.
- Analyzed elemental concentrations (Ca, Mg, Na, P, Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Al, Ni, Sn, Be) in the shells.
- Used shell size as a proxy for age to assess age-related influences on elemental composition.
Main Results:
- Kelp gull pellets serve as a record of marine-terrestrial nutrient transfer, showing seabirds redistribute elements from benthic habitats.
- Shell elemental composition (Mg, P, Mn, Be, Zn) was significantly influenced by shell size (age), indicating physiological controls on biomineralization.
- Geographic location affected elemental composition (e.g., Cu, Sn), suggesting environmental influences on elemental uptake prior to ingestion.
Conclusions:
- Elemental patterns in Nacella concinna shells reflect both intrinsic (age) and extrinsic (environmental) factors, providing insights into nutrient cycling.
- Mg, P, Sn, and Ni concentrations are sensitive indicators of ecological variability and environmental change across Antarctic islands.
- Seabird-mediated pathways are significant in shaping nutrient dynamics and habitat functionality, enhancing understanding of Antarctic ecosystem resilience.
