Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in Olivaceous Cormorant (&lt;i&gt;Phalacrocorax brasilianus) &lt;/i&gt;from Sepetiba Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Aldo Pacheco Ferreira

doi:10.5923/j.ms.20120204.01

Abstract

An expressive number of man-made chemicals have been introduced in the aquatic environment represent the major problems arising in the development worldwide. Many of these chemical contaminants are persistent polyhalogenated aromat ic hydrocarbons known to bioaccumu late and bio magnify as they move through the aquatic food web, effect ing spe- cies associated with aquatic systems. Concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dio xins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in Olivaceous Cormorant Phalacrocorax brasilianus collected fro m 2007 to 2011 on Sepetiba Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Detectable hepatic concentrations of PCDD/Fs and PCBs were found in all samples analy zed. These data represent some of the first measurements of PCDD/ Fs and PCBs in seabirds from this area. While levels of these contaminants in the tested specie currently appear to fall belo w critical values, continued monitoring is warranted for these compounds, especially in this bay.

Highlights

Oceans cover about 70% o f the earth's surface
This study aims to provide metal concentrations data of P. brasilianus collected fro m Sepetiba Bay, which constitutes as an important natural breeding ground for mo lluscs, crustaceans, fish, and in the Co roa Grande mangrove swamp, many species of seabird, P. brasilianus being highly
Chemical analysis of PCDDs, polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) (PCDD/Fs) and coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) followed the method described in a previous report, USEPA Method 1668[28], and USEPA Method 8290 A[29]

Summary

Introduction

Oceans cover about 70% o f the earth's surface. Effects of pollution on marine ecosystems have beco me a matter of great concern, especially to coastal states[1]. The oceans cannot supply an infinite sink for anthropogenic wastes but inadequate attention has been given to evaluating the limits of capacity of coastal areas for waste assimilation[2]. Cu rrent concerns about connectivity of ocean health issues and the relationship to human disease highlight an essential area for research[1,3]. A wareness of the ocean and the impact of human perfo rmance on it can expose the complexity and interdependence of all aspects of the system[4]. Enhanced acquaintance and predictive capabilities are required for more effective and sustained development of the marine

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Discussion

Conclusion