Abstract
Samples of bones (humerus) and claws of adult Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) were opportunistically obtained from twenty-seven carcasses at two important nesting sites in northern Chile: Chañaral Island (CHI) and Pan de Azúcar Island (PAI). The concentrations of trace elements (Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Fe, Se, As, Br, Mn and Cr) were determined by X-ray fluorescence. The highest levels (mean ± standard deviation, micrograms/g dry weight) of Cu (26.57 ± 4.08), Zn (163.9 ± 42.7), Pb (1.86 ± 1.53), Ni (0.31 ± 0.03), Se (7.70 ± 4.87) and Cr (0.25 ± 0.24) were detected in bones, whereas the highest levels of Fe (3,162 ± 1,579), As (6.75 ± 4.21), Br (0.12 ± 0.06) and Mn (76.7 ± 47.9) were found in claws. In bones, Se and Ni levels were higher (P < 0.05) in CHI than in PAI. In claws, the contents of Pb, Fe, and Mn were higher at CHI than those at PAI, whereas only As exhibited higher contents at PAI than those found at CHI. The trace element content in the claws and bones found herein may be the result of either acute or chronic exposure to penguins, respectively. These findings may serve as a baseline for further studies to design adequate and opportune plans to protect this vulnerable species.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.