Subcellular metal partitioning as a novel tool in ecotoxicological elasmobranch assessments: The case of lesser numbfish (Narcine brasiliensis) affected by the Mariana dam disaster in Southeastern Brazil

Abstract

This study comprises a novel report on subcellular metal partitioning and metallothionein (MT) metal detoxification efforts in lesser numbfish (Narcine brasiliensis) electric ray specimens, as well as the first assessment on MT contents in any ray electric organ. Individuals sampled from an area in Southeastern Brazil affected by the Mariana dam rupture disaster were assessed concerning subcellular metal partitioning and MT metal-detoxification in the liver, gonads, electric organ and muscle of both adults and embryos. Yolk was also assessed when available. Relative total and heat-stable (bioavailable) metal and metalloid comparisons between adults and embryos in different developmental stages demonstrates maternal transfer of both total and bioavailable metals and significant MT associations demonstrate the detoxification of As, Ag, Mn, Ni, Cd, Co, Cu, Se and V through this biochemical pathway. Our findings expand the lacking ecotoxicological assessments for this near-threatened species and indicates significant ecological concerns, warranting further biomonitoring efforts.