1
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Huszarik M, Roodt AP, Wernicke T, Chávez F, Metz A, Link M, Lima-Fernandes E, Schulz R, Entling MH. Increased bat hunting at polluted streams suggests chemical exposure rather than prey shortage. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167080. [PMID: 37722422 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Streams and their riparian areas are important habitats and foraging sites for bats feeding on emergent aquatic insects. Chemical pollutants entering freshwater streams from agricultural and wastewater sources have been shown to alter aquatic insect emergence, yet little is known about how this impacts insectivorous bats in riparian areas. In this study, we investigate the relationships between the presence of wastewater effluent, in-stream pesticide toxicity, the number of emergent and flying aquatic insects, and the activity and hunting behaviour of bats at 14 streams in southwestern Germany. Stream sites were located in riparian forests, sheltered from direct exposure to pollutants from agricultural and urban areas. We focused on three bat species associated with riparian areas: Myotis daubentonii, M. cf. brandtii, and Pipistrellus pipistrellus. We found that streams with higher pesticide toxicity and more frequent detection of wastewater also tended to be warmer and have higher nutrient and lower oxygen concentrations. We did not observe a reduction of insect emergence, bat activity or hunting rates in association with pesticide toxicity and wastewater detections. Instead, the activity and hunting rates of Myotis spp. were higher at more polluted sites. The observed increase in bat hunting at more polluted streams suggests that instead of reduced prey availability, chemical pollution at the levels measured in the present study could expose bats to pollutants transported from the stream by emergent aquatic insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Huszarik
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany.
| | - Alexis P Roodt
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
| | - Teagan Wernicke
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
| | - Fernanda Chávez
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
| | - Annika Metz
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
| | - Moritz Link
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
| | - Eva Lima-Fernandes
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
| | - Ralf Schulz
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany; Eußerthal Ecosystem Research Station, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Birkenthalstr. 13, 76857 Eußerthal, Germany
| | - Martin H Entling
- iES Landau, RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, Fortstraße 7, 76829 Landau in der Pfalz, Germany
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2
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Martín J, Gonkowski S, Kortas A, Sobiech P, Rytel L, Santos JL, Aparicio I, Alonso E. Multiclass method to determine emerging pollutants in bats using a non-invasive approach based on guano matrix. Microchem J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2023.108486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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3
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Sandoval-Herrera N, Castillo JP, Ching MEA, Herrera M LG, Faure PA, Welch K. Non-destructive methods to assess pesticide exposure in free-living bats. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:162011. [PMID: 36737017 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Bat populations are dwindling worldwide due to anthropogenic activities like agriculture, however the role that pesticide exposure plays on these declines is unclear. To address these research gaps, we first need to develop reliable methods to detect and monitor exposure to environmental pollutants and its effects on free-living bats. The use of biomarkers is a sensitive and informative tool to study sublethal effects in wildlife, however it requires laboratory validation and integrative approaches to be applicable to free-living species. In this study, we propose a set of non-destructive biomarkers to evaluate pesticide exposure in free-ranging bats and validated their suitability with dose-exposure experiments in captivity. We selected three biomarkers that have been widely used in vertebrate ecotoxicology and that combined represent sensitive, specific, and ecologically relevant responses to pollutants: DNA damage, AChE activity, and leukocyte profiles. We used two insectivorous bat species as model species Eptesicus fuscus (laboratory) and Pteronotus mexicanus (field). We found that micronuclei frequency (genotoxicity) and AChE activity (exposure and neurotoxicity) were robust indicators of toxicant exposure. The validity of this set of endpoints was supported by their consistent performance in laboratory and field experiments as well as by the significant correlation among them. Leukocyte profile (systemic stress) results were not consistent between laboratory and field studies, suggesting further evaluation of its suitability is needed. Integrative approaches, like the one we used here, maximize the insights about toxicant effects by combining the information of single biomarkers into more meaningful inferences, which can be applied to environmental risk assessments in wildlife. Furthermore, the use of non-destructive, cost-effective biomarkers is imperative when assessing toxicant exposure and effects in vulnerable wildlife and it should be a priority in the field of wildlife toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Sandoval-Herrera
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jesusa Paz Castillo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ma Enrica Angela Ching
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - L Gerardo Herrera M
- Estación de Biología Chamela, Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, San Patricio, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Paul A Faure
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kenneth Welch
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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4
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Simonis MC, Hartzler LK, Turner GG, Scafini MR, Johnson JS, Rúa MA. Long‐term exposure to an invasive fungal pathogen decreases
Eptesicus fuscus
body mass with increasing latitude. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Molly C. Simonis
- Department of Biology University of Oklahoma Norman Oklahoma USA
- Environmental Sciences PhD Program Wright State University Dayton Ohio USA
| | - Lynn K. Hartzler
- Environmental Sciences PhD Program Wright State University Dayton Ohio USA
- Department of Biological Sciences Wright State University Dayton Ohio USA
| | - Gregory G. Turner
- Bureau of Wildlife Management Pennsylvania Game Commission Harrisburg Pennsylvania USA
| | - Michael R. Scafini
- Bureau of Wildlife Management Pennsylvania Game Commission Harrisburg Pennsylvania USA
| | - Joseph S. Johnson
- School of Information Technology University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Megan A. Rúa
- Environmental Sciences PhD Program Wright State University Dayton Ohio USA
- Department of Biological Sciences Wright State University Dayton Ohio USA
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5
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Schanzer S, Koch M, Kiefer A, Jentke T, Veith M, Bracher F, Bracher J, Müller C. Analysis of pesticide and persistent organic pollutant residues in German bats. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 305:135342. [PMID: 35714958 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bats are strictly protected throughout Europe. They are a highly diverse order of mammals in terms of body size, body weight, migratory behaviour, trophic niche specialisation and habitat use. The latter ranges from urban areas and arable land to forest. Due to their low reproductive rate, environmental stressors can have a major impact on bat populations. Pesticides in particular are discussed as an important driver of bat population declines. In this work, we analysed nearly 400 animals of five different species (Eptesicus serotinus, Myotis myotis, Nyctalus noctula, Pipistrellus pipistrellus, and Plecotus auritus) from all over Germany for residues of 209 pesticides and persistent organic pollutants. Residue analysis was conducted with a previously developed method using a miniaturized quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) sample preparation and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for separation and detection. These analytical data were statistically correlated with the known data on the animals (e.g. age, sex, place and time of finding). Of 209 pesticides and pollutants investigated, 28 compounds were detected, the most frequent being organochlorine insecticides and polychlorinated biphenyls, which have been banned for decades by the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. Detection of more recent pesticides that were legally used for the last decade included azole antifungals and the insecticide fipronil. The bats contained between four and 25 different residues. Statistical data analyses showed that the distribution throughout Germany is largely comparable, and single exceptions were observed in specialized ecological niches. In conclusion, this work provides the largest dataset of pesticide and persistent organic pollutant residues in European bats to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Schanzer
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Butenandtstraße 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Koch
- Department of Biogeography, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Andreas Kiefer
- Department of Biogeography, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Thalia Jentke
- Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Leibniz Institute for Analysis of Biodiversity Change, Adenauerallee 127, 53113, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Veith
- Department of Biogeography, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Franz Bracher
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Butenandtstraße 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Johannes Bracher
- Chair of Statistics and Econometrics, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Blücherstraße 17, 76185, Karlsruhe, Germany; Computational Statistics Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies, Schloß-Wolfsbrunnenweg 35, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Müller
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Butenandtstraße 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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6
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González Noschese CS, Olmedo ML, Seco Pon JP, Miglioranza KSB. Occurrence of persistent organic pollutants and chlorpyrifos in Tadarida brasiliensis tissues from an agricultural production area in Argentina. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:64162-64176. [PMID: 35474422 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20333-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are lipophilic and persistent compounds, with chronic toxicity that cause negative effects on the environment and organisms. The chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide and represent the main insecticide currently used in many countries. The concentrations of OCPs, PCBs, and chlorpyrifos were evaluated in liver, muscle, and gonad of females and males of Tadarida brasiliensis in an agricultural production area in Argentina. Pollutants were quantified by gas chromatography with electron capture detection. The general total concentration pattern among tissues was gonad > muscle > liver, with a higher ratio of pesticides (OCPs + chlorpyrifos) over PCBs in muscle and liver, while gonads showed higher concentrations of PCBs. The predominance of DDTs and endosulfans evidences the bioavailability of these compounds despite their use has ceased. Chlorpyrifos was the main pesticide detected in almost all samples of both sexes, probably due to its current intensive use. More researches about ecology and activity patterns is paramount in order to understand more accurately the accumulation and possible negative effects of these pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Sofía González Noschese
- Laboratorio de Ecotoxicología y Contaminación Ambiental, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - María Luz Olmedo
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Seco Pon
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (IIMyC) (UNMDP-CONICET), Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Karina Silvia Beatriz Miglioranza
- Laboratorio de Ecotoxicología y Contaminación Ambiental, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350, 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina.
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (IIMyC) (UNMDP-CONICET), Mar del Plata, Argentina.
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7
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OUP accepted manuscript. J Mammal 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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8
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Kuzukiran O, Simsek I, Yorulmaz T, Yurdakok-Dikmen B, Ozkan O, Filazi A. Multiresidues of environmental contaminants in bats from Turkey. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 282:131022. [PMID: 34090000 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Bat populations have been steadily declining, most likely because of anthropogenic factors. Identification and classification of these risks have crucial importance in ensuring the survival of this species. Bats often coexist with humans in urban, industrial, and agricultural areas and are potentially exposed to a range of environmental pollutants. Two bat species widely distributed in Turkey were selected, and the residues of pesticides and organic contaminants in their carcasses were analyzed using: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Species and sex specific differences were evaluated along with their potential to be used as bioindicators. During the rigor mortis period, 23 adult Pipistrellus pipistrellus (11 female and 12 male) and 19 adult Myotis myotis (9 female and 10 male) were collected and 322 contaminants (pesticides and organic contaminants) were analyzed in whole carcasses of bats by using a validated method. Multiple pesticides and organic contaminants were detected in all collected 42 bats. The most frequent contamination was detected as 4,4-DDE, followed by ethoprophos, quinalphos, methidation, paraoxon-methyl, phosalone and tetramethrin. The least common compounds were as follows: 2,4-DDD, endrin, HCH-alpha, fenamiphos sulfoxide, parathion ethyl, bitertanol, oxycarboxin, procymidone, fluazifop-butyl, trifluralin, bifenazate, DMF, fenpyroximate, PBDE-47, benzo(a)anthracene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, and benzo(g,h,i) perylene; of these only one was found in each bat. In terms of frequency and concentration, there was no significant difference between species and sex. An average of 26.1 pollutants was found in each bat. Thus, it was concluded that bats can be used as potential bioindicators in determining environmental pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Kuzukiran
- Eldivan Vocational School of Health Services, Cankiri Karatekin University, Eldivan, Cankiri, Turkey.
| | - Ilker Simsek
- Eldivan Vocational School of Health Services, Cankiri Karatekin University, Eldivan, Cankiri, Turkey.
| | - Tarkan Yorulmaz
- Hunting and Wildlife Program, Department of Forestry, Yaprakli Vocational School, Cankiri Karatekin University, Cankiri, Turkey.
| | - Begum Yurdakok-Dikmen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Turkey.
| | - Ozcan Ozkan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Cankiri Karatekin University, Cankiri, Turkey.
| | - Ayhan Filazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Turkey.
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9
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Brooks A, Nopper J, Weyers A, Crosland H, Foudoulakis M, Haaf S, Hackett M, Lawrence A. Assessing the Risks to Bats from Plant Protection Products: A Review of the Recent European Food Safety Authority Statement Regarding Toxicity and Exposure Routes. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2021; 40:2978-2989. [PMID: 34499761 PMCID: PMC9292635 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Wild birds and mammals that feed in agricultural habitats are potentially exposed to pesticides through various routes. Until recently, it has been implicitly assumed that the existing European Union risk assessment scheme for birds and mammals also covered bats (Chiroptera). However, recent publications raised concerns and, in 2019, a scientific statement was published by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) that concluded that bats were not adequately covered by the current risk assessment scheme. We review the evidence presented and assumptions made in the EFSA bat statement relating to toxicity, bioaccumulation, and exposure pathways (oral, dermal, and inhalation), in terms of their relevance for bats potentially foraging in agricultural areas in the European Union; we highlight where uncertainties remain and how these could be addressed. Based on our review, it is clear that there is still much uncertainty with regard to the appropriateness of the assumptions made in the EFSA bat statement. Significantly more information needs to be gathered to answer fundamental questions regarding bat behavior in agricultural landscapes, together with the relative sensitivity of bats to pesticide exposure. Given the current critical information gaps, it is recommended that quantitative risk assessments for bats not be performed for pesticides until more robust, reliable, and relevant data are available. The risk to bats can then be compared with that for birds and ground-dwelling mammals, to determine the protectiveness of the existing scheme and thus whether a bat scenario is indeed required and under what circumstances. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2978-2989. © 2021 Cambridge Environmental Assessments, part of RSK ADAS Ltd. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.C. Brooks
- Cambridge Environmental AssessmentsCambridgeUK
| | | | - A. Weyers
- CropScience Division, BayerMonheimGermany
| | - H. Crosland
- Cambridge Environmental AssessmentsCambridgeUK
| | | | - S. Haaf
- ADAMA DeutschlandCologneGermany
| | - M. Hackett
- Cambridge Environmental AssessmentsCambridgeUK
| | - A. Lawrence
- Cambridge Environmental AssessmentsCambridgeUK
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10
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Schanzer S, Kröner E, Wibbelt G, Koch M, Kiefer A, Bracher F, Müller C. Miniaturized multiresidue method for the analysis of pesticides and persistent organic pollutants in non-target wildlife animal liver tissues using GC-MS/MS. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 279:130434. [PMID: 33873063 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In order to gain a better insight into pesticide and pollutant exposure of small (non-target) wildlife animals, a QuEChERS sample preparation method was first developed for 5 g liver tissues (e.g. hedgehog samples) and then downscaled for the analysis of 100 mg liver tissues (e.g. bat samples). The optimized (micro) QuEChERS methods used 1% acetic acid in acetonitrile as organic solvent for liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and salting out was performed with anhydrous magnesium sulfate and sodium acetate (4:1). After a freezing-out step, sample clean-up was carried out with anhydrous magnesium sulfate, PSA, C18, and GCB (150:25:20:5). Overall, 209 pesticides and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can be analysed within each sample with gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Both methods were validated with representative analytes according to the European Commission guideline SANTE/12682/2019. Limits of quantification were between 1 and 20 μg kg-1, and the methods proved to be linear up to 400 μg kg-1. Additionally, the analytes delivered satisfactory results regarding recovery and precision. As proof of concept, samples of six hedgehog livers were analysed with both methods to prove the accuracy of the micro QuEChERS method. Additionally, six livers of different bat species were analysed with the downscaled method. The newly developed micro QuEChERS method for multiresidue analysis requires only minute amounts of biomaterial and represents a sophisticated novel technique for determining the exposure of small wildlife animals to different contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Schanzer
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Egbert Kröner
- Wildvogel Pflegestation Kirchwald EV, Auf der Bachhell 1, 56729, Kirchwald, Germany
| | - Gudrun Wibbelt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Koch
- Department of Biogeography, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Andreas Kiefer
- Department of Biogeography, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Franz Bracher
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Müller
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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11
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Oliveira JM, Destro ALF, Freitas MB, Oliveira LL. How do pesticides affect bats? – A brief review of recent publications. BRAZ J BIOL 2021; 81:499-507. [DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.225330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Increased agricultural production has been increased use of pesticides worldwide, which poses a threat to both human and environmental health. Recent studies suggest that several non-target organisms, from bees to mammals, show a wide variety of toxic effects of pesticides exposure, including impaired behavior, development and reproduction. Among mammals, bats are usually a neglected taxon among ecotoxicological studies, although they play important ecological and economical roles in forest ecosystems and agriculture through to seed dispersal and insect population control. Considering their wide variety of food habits, bats are exposed to environmental pollutants through food or water contamination, or through direct skin contact in their roosting areas. In order to better understand the risk posed by pesticides to bats populations, we compiled studies that investigated the main toxicological effects of pesticides in bats, aiming at contributing to discussion about the environmental risks associated with the use of pesticides.
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12
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Torquetti CG, Guimarães ATB, Soto-Blanco B. Exposure to pesticides in bats. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 755:142509. [PMID: 33032135 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bats provide a variety of ecological services that are essential to the integrity of ecosystems. Indiscriminate use of pesticides has been a threat to biodiversity, and the exposure of bats to these xenobiotics is a threat to their populations. This study presents a review of articles regarding the exposure of bats to pesticides published in the period from January 1951 to July 2020, addressing the temporal and geographical distribution of research, the studied species, and the most studied classes of pesticides. The research was concentrated in the 1970s and 1980s, mostly in the Northern Hemisphere, mainly in the USA. Of the total species in the world, only 5% of them have been studied, evaluating predominantly insectivorous species of the Family Vespertilionidae. Insecticides, mainly organochlorines, were the most studied pesticides. Most research was observational, with little information available on the effects of pesticides on natural bat populations. Despite the advances in analytical techniques for detecting contaminants, the number of studies is still insufficient compared to the number of active ingredients used. The effects of pesticides on other guilds and tropical species remain poorly studied. Future research should investigate the effects of pesticides, especially in sublethal doses causing chronic exposure. It is crucial to assess the impact of these substances on other food guilds and investigate how natural populations respond to the exposure to mixtures of pesticides found in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Guimarães Torquetti
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil
| | - Ana Tereza Bittencourt Guimarães
- Laboratório de Investigações Biológicas, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, Rua Universitária 2069, Cascavel, PR 85819-110, Brazil
| | - Benito Soto-Blanco
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil.
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13
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Hernández-Jerez A, Adriaanse P, Aldrich A, Berny P, Coja T, Duquesne S, Gimsing AL, Marina M, Millet M, Pelkonen O, Pieper S, Tiktak A, Tzoulaki I, Widenfalk A, Wolterink G, Russo D, Streissl F, Topping C. Scientific statement on the coverage of bats by the current pesticide risk assessment for birds and mammals. EFSA J 2019; 17:e05758. [PMID: 32626374 PMCID: PMC7009170 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are an important group of mammals, frequently foraging in farmland and potentially exposed to pesticides. This statement considers whether the current risk assessment performed for birds and ground dwelling mammals exposed to pesticides is also protective of bats. Three main issues were addressed. Firstly, whether bats are toxicologically more or less sensitive than the most sensitive birds and mammals. Secondly, whether oral exposure of bats to pesticides is greater or lower than in ground dwelling mammals and birds. Thirdly, whether there are other important exposure routes relevant to bats. A large variation in toxicological sensitivity and no relationship between sensitivity of bats and bird or mammal test-species to pesticides could be found. In addition, bats have unique traits, such as echolocation and torpor which can be adversely affected by exposure to pesticides and which are not covered by the endpoints currently selected for wild mammal risk assessment. The current exposure assessment methodology was used for oral exposure and adapted to bats using bat-specific parameters. For oral exposure, it was concluded that for most standard risk assessment scenarios the current approach did not cover exposure of bats to pesticide residues in food. Calculations of potential dermal exposure for bats foraging during spraying operations suggest that this may be a very important exposure route. Dermal routes of exposure should be combined with inhalation and oral exposure. Based on the evidence compiled, the Panel concludes that bats are not adequately covered by the current risk assessment approach, and that there is a need to develop a bat-specific risk assessment scheme. In general, there was scarcity of data to assess the risks for bat exposed to pesticides. Recommendations for research are made, including identification of alternatives to laboratory testing of bats to assess toxicological effects.
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Marquardt SR, Annis M, Drum RG, Hummel SL, Mosby DE, Smith T. On the Cutting Edge of Research to Conserve At-Risk Species: Maximizing Impact through Partnerships. Integr Comp Biol 2018; 58:140-149. [PMID: 29697777 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icy009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Today's conservation challenges are complex. Solving these challenges often requires scientific collaborations that extend beyond the scope, expertise, and capacity of any single agency, organization, or institution. Conservation efforts can benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific and technological innovations, and the leveraging of capacity and resources among partners. Here we explore a series of case studies demonstrating how collaborative scientific partnerships are furthering the mission of the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), including: (1) contaminants of emerging concern in the Great Lakes Basin, (2) Poweshiek skipperling conservation, (3) using technology to improve population survey methods for bats and monarch butterfly, and (4) Big River restoration in the Southeast Missouri lead mining district. These case studies illustrate how strategic and effective scientific collaboration is a multi-stage process that requires investment of time and resources by all participants. Early coordination and communication is crucial to aligning planned work with scientific and decision-making needs. Collaborations between USFWS and external scientists can be mutually beneficial by supporting the agency mission while also providing an avenue for innovative research to be directly applied in conservation decisions and management actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shauna R Marquardt
- Missouri Ecological Services Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Columbia, MO 65202, USA
| | - Mandy Annis
- Michigan Ecological Services Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Ryan G Drum
- Midwest Regional Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bloomington, MN 55437, USA
| | | | - David E Mosby
- Missouri Ecological Services Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Columbia, MO 65202, USA
| | - Tamara Smith
- Minnesota-Wisconsin Ecological Services Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bloomington, MN 55425, USA
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Genetic Mark–Recapture Improves Estimates of Maternity Colony Size for Indiana Bats. JOURNAL OF FISH AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 2017. [DOI: 10.3996/122016-jfwm-093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Genetic mark–recapture methods are increasingly being used to estimate demographic parameters in species where traditional techniques are problematic or imprecise. The federally endangered Indiana bat Myotis sodalis has declined dramatically and threats such as white-nose syndrome continue to afflict this species. To date, important demographic information for Indiana bats has been difficult to estimate precisely using traditional techniques such as emergence counts. Successful management and protection of Indiana bats requires better methods to estimate population sizes and survival rates throughout the year, particularly during summer when these bats reproduce and are widely dispersed away from their winter hibernacula. In addition, the familial makeup of maternity colonies is unknown, yet important for understanding local and regional population dynamics. We had four objectives in this study. For the first two objectives we investigated the potential use of DNA from fecal samples (fecal DNA) collected at roosts to obtain genetically based mark–recapture estimates of 1) colony size and 2) survival rates, for an Indiana bat maternity colony in Indianapolis, Indiana. The third objective was to compare our genetically based colony-size estimates with emergence counts conducted at the same roost tree to evaluate the genetic mark–recapture method. Our fourth objective was to use fecal DNA to estimate levels of relatedness among individuals sampled at the roost. In the summer of 2008, we collected fecal pellets and conducted emergence counts at a prominent roost tree during three time periods each lasting 7 or 8 d. We genotyped fecal DNA using five highly polymorphic microsatellite loci to identify individuals and used a robust-design mark–recapture approach to estimate survival rates as well as colony size at the roost tree. Emergence count estimates at the roost tree ranged from 100 to 215, whereas genetic mark–recapture estimates were higher, ranging from 122 to 266 and more precise. Apparent survival was 0.994 (SE = 0.04) between sampling periods suggesting that few bats died or permanently emigrated during the course of the study. Relatedness estimates, r, between all pairs of individuals averaged 0.055 ranging from 0 to 0.779, indicating that most individuals were not closely related. We demonstrate here the promise of using fecal DNA to estimate demographic information for Indiana bats and potentially other bat species.
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