A novel method in dietary studies using ecotoxicological data
van den Heuvel-Greve, M.J.; van Duren, L.A.; Brasseur, S.M.; Middelburg, J.J.; Leonards, P.E.; Zabel, A.K.; Vethaak, A.D. (2009). A novel method in dietary studies using ecotoxicological data, in: ASLO Aquatic Sciences Meeting 2009: A Cruise Through Nice Waters, 25-30 January 2009, Nice, France. pp. 273
In: (2009). ASLO Aquatic Sciences Meeting 2009: A Cruise Through Nice Waters, 25-30 January 2009, Nice, France. ASLO: Texas. 320 pp.
Aquatic top predators such as common terns and harbour seals acquire organic contaminants directly from water or indirectly via food. To assess bioaccumulation of contaminants in an estuarine environment, a pilot survey was conducted in the contaminated Westerschelde (south-west Netherlands) in 2005. In 2007 and 2008 more detailed surveys were conducted. A variety of samples were taken ranging from sediment and suspended matter to different types of biota, such as shrimps, worms, shellfish, comb jellies, several species of fish, common terns and harbour seals. Isotope signatures (delta13C/delta15N) were measured in all samples. Trophic levels were calculated using the cockle (Cerastoderma edule) as baseline measurement. The chemical results show that contaminants such as PCBs, PBDEs, HBCD and PFOS are easily transferred and biomagnify in most prey species. By combining trophic levels and contaminant concentrations a further insight can be gained into trophic relations in estuarine environments.
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