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Spadetto L, Gómez-Ramírez P, Zamora-Marín JM, León-Ortega M, Díaz-García S, Tecles F, Fenoll J, Cava J, Calvo JF, García-Fernández AJ. Active monitoring of long-eared owl (Asio otus) nestlings reveals widespread exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides across different agricultural landscapes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170492. [PMID: 38307270 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170492] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The widespread use of anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) poses a worldwide threat to farmland wildlife. These compounds accumulate in tissues of both target and non-target species, potentially endangering both direct consumers and their predators. However, investigations on ARs in blood of free-ranging predatory birds are rare. Here, the long-eared owl (Asio otus) has been used as a model predator to assess AR exposure in different agricultural landscapes from a Mediterranean semiarid region. A total of 69 owlets from 38 nests were blood-sampled over 2021 and 2022, aiming to detect AR residues and explore factors that determine their exposure, such as land uses. In addition, prothrombin time (PT) test was conducted to assess potential effects of AR contamination. Overall, nearly all the samples (98.6 %) tested positive for at least one compound and multiple ARs were found in most of the individuals (82.6 %). Among the ARs detected, flocoumafen was the most common compound (88.4 % of the samples). AR total concentration (ΣARs) in blood ranged from 0.06 to 34.18 ng mL-1, detecting the highest levels in the most intensively cultivated area. The analysis of owl pellets from 19 breeding territories showed relevant among-site differences in the contribution of rodents and birds into the diet of long-eared owls, supporting its high dietary plasticity and indicating AR presence at multiple trophic levels. Moreover, a positive and significant correlation was found between ΣARs and PT (Rho = 0.547, p < 0.001), which demonstrates the direct effect of ARs on free-living nestlings. Our results provide a preliminary overview of AR exposure in a little-studied owl species inhabiting agricultural and rural landscapes. Despite the low detected levels, these findings indicate widespread exposure -often to multiple compounds- from early life stages, which raises concern and draws attention to an ongoing and unresolved contamination issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Spadetto
- Toxicology Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Gómez-Ramírez
- Toxicology Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - José Manuel Zamora-Marín
- ULULA Association for Owl Study and Conservation, 30100 Murcia, Spain; Department of Applied Biology, Centro de Investigación e Innovación Agroalimentaria (CIAGRO-UMH), Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Elche, Spain; Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Mario León-Ortega
- ULULA Association for Owl Study and Conservation, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Sarah Díaz-García
- ULULA Association for Owl Study and Conservation, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Fernando Tecles
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis (Interlab-UMU), Veterinary School, Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - José Fenoll
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación y Desarrollo Agrario y Alimentario, IMIDA, 30150 Murcia, Spain
| | - Juana Cava
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación y Desarrollo Agrario y Alimentario, IMIDA, 30150 Murcia, Spain
| | - José Francisco Calvo
- Department of Ecology and Hydrology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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Purucker ST, Snyder MN, Glinski DA, Van Meter RJ, Garber K, Chelsvig EA, Cyterski MJ, Sinnathamby S, Paulukonis EA, Henderson WM. Estimating dermal contact soil exposure for amphibians. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2023; 19:9-16. [PMID: 35412009 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4619] [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: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Chemical exposure estimation through the dermal route is an underemphasized area of ecological risk assessment for terrestrial animals. Currently, there are efforts to create exposure models to estimate doses from this pathway for use in ecological risk assessment. One significant limitation has been insufficient published data to characterize exposure and to support the selection and parameterization of appropriate models, particularly for amphibians in terrestrial habitats. Recent publications measuring pesticide doses to terrestrial-phase amphibians have begun to rectify this situation. We collated and summarized available measurements of terrestrial amphibian dermal exposure to pesticides from 11 studies in which researchers measured tissue concentrations associated with known pesticide experimental application rates. This data set included tissue concentrations in 11 amphibian species and 14 different pesticides. We then compared the results of two screening exposure models that differed based on surface area scaling approaches as a function of body weight (one based on birds as surrogates for amphibians and another amphibian-specific) to the measured tissue residue concentrations. We define a false-negative rate for each screening model as the proportion of amphibians for which the predicted concentration is less than the observed concentration (i.e., underestimate), contrary to the intent of screening models, which are intended to have a bias for higher exposure concentrations. The screening model that uses birds as surrogates did not have any instances where estimated expected avian doses were less than measured amphibian body burdens. When using the amphibian-specific exposure model that corrected for differences between avian and amphibian surface area, measured concentrations were greater than model estimates for 11.3% of the 1158 comparisons. The database of measured pesticide concentrations in terrestrial amphibians is provided for use in calculating bioconcentration factors and for future amphibian dermal exposure model development. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:9-16. © 2022 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Thomas Purucker
- USEPA Office of Research and Development, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Kristina Garber
- USEPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Emma A Chelsvig
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Sumathy Sinnathamby
- USEPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Herring G, Eagles-Smith CA, Wolstenholme R, Welch A, West C, Rattner BA. Collateral damage: Anticoagulant rodenticides pose threats to California condors. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 311:119925. [PMID: 35988680 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) are widespread environmental contaminants that pose risks to scavenging birds because they routinely occur within their prey and can cause secondary poisoning. However, little is known about AR exposure in one of the rarest avian scavengers in the world, the California condor (Gymnogyps californianus). We assessed AR exposure in California condors and surrogate turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) to gauge potential hazard to a proposed future condor flock by determining how application rate and environmental factors influence exposure. Additionally, we examined whether ARs might be correlated with prolonged blood clotting time and potential mortality in condors. Only second-generation ARs (SGARs) were detected, and exposure was detected in all condor flocks. Liver AR residues were detected in 42% of the condors (27 of 65) and 93% of the turkey vultures (66 of 71). Although concentrations were generally low (<10 ng/g ww), 48% of the California condors and 64% of the turkey vultures exposed to ARs exceeded the 5% probability of exhibiting signs of toxicosis (>20 ng/g ww), and 10% and 13% exceeded the 20% probability of exhibiting signs toxicosis (>80 ng/g ww). There was evidence of prolonged blood clotting time in 16% of the free-flying condors. For condors, there was a relationship between the interaction of AR exposure index (legal use across regions where condors existed) and precipitation, and the probability of detecting ARs in liver. Exposure to ARs may complicate recovery efforts of condor populations within their current range and in the soon to be established northern California experimental population. Continued monitoring of AR exposure using plasma blood clotting assays and residue analysis would allow for an improved understanding of their hazard to condors, particularly if paired with recent movement data that could elucidate exposure sources on the landscape occupied by this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garth Herring
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
| | - Rachel Wolstenholme
- Pinnacles National Park, Paicines, CA, 95043, USA; Current: National Park Service, Interior Regions 8, 9, 10, & 12, San Francisco, CA, 94104, USA
| | - Alacia Welch
- Pinnacles National Park, Paicines, CA, 95043, USA
| | - Chris West
- Yurok Tribe Wildlife Department, Klamath, CA, 95548, USA
| | - Barnett A Rattner
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
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4
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Larras F, Charles S, Chaumot A, Pelosi C, Le Gall M, Mamy L, Beaudouin R. A critical review of effect modeling for ecological risk assessment of plant protection products. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:43448-43500. [PMID: 35391640 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A wide diversity of plant protection products (PPP) is used for crop protection leading to the contamination of soil, water, and air, which can have ecotoxicological impacts on living organisms. It is inconceivable to study the effects of each compound on each species from each compartment, experimental studies being time consuming and cost prohibitive, and animal testing having to be avoided. Therefore, numerous models are developed to assess PPP ecotoxicological effects. Our objective was to provide an overview of the modeling approaches enabling the assessment of PPP effects (including biopesticides) on the biota. Six categories of models were inventoried: (Q)SAR, DR and TKTD, population, multi-species, landscape, and mixture models. They were developed for various species (terrestrial and aquatic vertebrates and invertebrates, primary producers, micro-organisms) belonging to diverse environmental compartments, to address different goals (e.g., species sensitivity or PPP bioaccumulation assessment, ecosystem services protection). Among them, mechanistic models are increasingly recognized by EFSA for PPP regulatory risk assessment but, to date, remain not considered in notified guidance documents. The strengths and limits of the reviewed models are discussed together with improvement avenues (multigenerational effects, multiple biotic and abiotic stressors). This review also underlines a lack of model testing by means of field data and of sensitivity and uncertainty analyses. Accurate and robust modeling of PPP effects and other stressors on living organisms, from their application in the field to their functional consequences on the ecosystems at different scales of time and space, would help going toward a more sustainable management of the environment. Graphical Abstract Combination of the keyword lists composing the first bibliographic query. Columns were joined together with the logical operator AND. All keyword lists are available in Supplementary Information at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5775038 (Larras et al. 2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Floriane Larras
- INRAE, Directorate for Collective Scientific Assessment, Foresight and Advanced Studies, Paris, 75338, France
| | - Sandrine Charles
- University of Lyon, University Lyon 1, CNRS UMR 5558, Laboratory of Biometry and Evolutionary Biology, Villeurbanne Cedex, 69622, France
| | - Arnaud Chaumot
- INRAE, UR RiverLy, Ecotoxicology laboratory, Villeurbanne, F-69625, France
| | - Céline Pelosi
- Avignon University, INRAE, UMR EMMAH, Avignon, 84000, France
| | - Morgane Le Gall
- Ifremer, Information Scientifique et Technique, Bibliothèque La Pérouse, Plouzané, 29280, France
| | - Laure Mamy
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, UMR ECOSYS, Thiverval-Grignon, 78850, France
| | - Rémy Beaudouin
- Ineris, Experimental Toxicology and Modelling Unit, UMR-I 02 SEBIO, Verneuil en Halatte, 65550, France.
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5
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Pay JM, Katzner TE, Hawkins CE, Barmuta LA, Brown WE, Wiersma JM, Koch AJ, Mooney NJ, Cameron EZ. Endangered Australian top predator is frequently exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 788:147673. [PMID: 34022576 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147673] [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: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) used to control mammalian pest populations cause secondary exposure of predatory species throughout much of the world. It is important to understand the drivers of non-target AR exposure patterns as context for assessing long-term effects and developing effective mitigation for these toxicants. In Australia, however, little is known about exposure and effects of ARs on predators. We detected AR residues in 74% of 50 opportunistically collected carcasses of the Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi), an endangered apex predator. In 22% of birds tested, or 31% of those exposed, liver concentrations of second generation ARs (SGARs) were >0.1 mg/kg ww. Eagles were exposed to flocoumafen, a toxicant only available from agricultural suppliers, at an exceptionally high rate (40% of birds tested). Liver SGAR concentrations were positively associated with the proportion of agricultural habitat and human population density in the area around where each eagle died. The high exposure rate in a species not known to regularly prey upon synanthropic rodents supports the hypothesis that apex predators are vulnerable to SGARs. Our results indicate that AR exposure constitutes a previously unrecognized threat to Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagles and highlight the importance of efforts to address non-target AR exposure in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Pay
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
| | - Todd E Katzner
- US Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Boise, ID, USA
| | - Clare E Hawkins
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Leon A Barmuta
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - William E Brown
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Jason M Wiersma
- Forest Practices Authority, 30 Patrick St, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Amelia J Koch
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia; Forest Practices Authority, 30 Patrick St, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Nick J Mooney
- Birdlife Australia Raptor Group, Birldlife Australia, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Elissa Z Cameron
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, CHC, New Zealand
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PREVALENCE OF ANTICOAGULANT RODENTICIDES IN FECES OF WILD RED FOXES (VULPES VULPES) IN NORWAY. J Wildl Dis 2019. [DOI: 10.7589/2019-01-027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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7
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Bourque K, Schiller A, Loyola Angosto C, McPhail L, Bagnasco W, Ayres A, Larsen A. Balancing agricultural production, groundwater management, and biodiversity goals: A multi-benefit optimization model of agriculture in Kern County, California. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 670:865-875. [PMID: 30921719 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.03.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
As surface water becomes scarcer and precipitation more variable in a warmer climate, reliance on groundwater reserves for agricultural use is expected to increase. Where efforts to achieve sustainable groundwater management require reductions in aggregate extraction, some of these reductions will entail a decline in agricultural production. However, the degree to which water conservation and other environmental priorities conflict with agricultural production depends, in part, on the spatial configuration of land-use decisions. We explore how to spatially configure groundwater recharge projects to achieve groundwater recharge targets and preserve ecologically important habitat at the least cost. We conduct a field-level analysis for all fields in Kern County, California, the largest crop-producing county in California (and the United States). Results demonstrate that fields selected for cost-effective land retirement can achieve groundwater recharge targets and simultaneously contribute to biodiversity goals via endangered species habitat conservation. However, increasing the amount of habitat conserved raises costs significantly. We discuss conservation actions, economic incentives, and policies that can be leveraged to meet regional biodiversity goals while preserving the economic vitality of agricultural communities. More broadly, this work also provides a proof-of-concept for applying the conservation planning tool, Marxan, to promote efficient allocation of land uses in the face of increasing water resource scarcity and biodiversity threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Bourque
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Bren Hall, 2400, Santa Barbara, CA, United States; Goleta Water District, 4699 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA, United States.
| | - Anna Schiller
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Bren Hall, 2400, Santa Barbara, CA, United States; Environmental Defense Fund, California Habitat Exchange & Western Water, 123 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| | - Cristóbal Loyola Angosto
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Bren Hall, 2400, Santa Barbara, CA, United States; Quantis International, 240 Commercial Street, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Lindsay McPhail
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of California Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Wendy Bagnasco
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Bren Hall, 2400, Santa Barbara, CA, United States; Caesars Entertainment Corporation, 1 Caesars Palace Drive, Las Vegas, NV, United States.
| | - Andrew Ayres
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Bren Hall, 2400, Santa Barbara, CA, United States; Environmental Defense Fund, Office of the Chief Economist, 123 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| | - Ashley Larsen
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Bren Hall, 2400, Santa Barbara, CA, United States.
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8
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Nogeire-McRae T, Lawler JJ, Schumaker NH, Cypher BL, Phillips SE. Land use change and rodenticide exposure trump climate change as the biggest stressors to San Joaquin kit fox. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0214297. [PMID: 31188822 PMCID: PMC6561535 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0214297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal and plant species often face multiple threats simultaneously. We explored the relative impact of three major threats on populations of the endangered San Joaquin kit fox. This species was once widely distributed across the southern San Joaquin Valley, California, USA, but agriculture and urban development have replaced much of its natural habitat. We modeled impacts of climate change, land-use change, and rodenticide exposure on kit fox populations using a spatially explicit, individual-based population model from 2000 to 2050 for the Central Valley, California. Our study indicates that land-use change will likely have the largest impact on kit fox populations. Land development has the potential to decrease populations by approximately 15% under a compact growth scenario in which projected population increases are accommodated within existing urban areas, and 17% under a business-as-usual scenario in which future population growth increases the developed area around urban centers. Plausible scenarios for exposure to pesticides suggest a reduction in kit fox populations by approximately 13%. By contrast, climate change has the potential to ameliorate some of these impacts. Climate-change induced vegetation shifts have the potential to increase total available kit fox habitat and could drive population increases of up to 7%. These vegetation shifts could also reduce movement barriers and create opportunities for hybridization between the endangered San Joaquin kit fox and the more widely distributed desert kit fox, found in the Mojave Desert. In contrast to these beneficial impacts, increasing climate extremes raise the probability of the kit fox population dropping below critical levels. Taken together, these results paint a complex picture of how an at-risk species is likely to respond to multiple threats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joshua J. Lawler
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Nathan H. Schumaker
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Brian L. Cypher
- California State University Stanislaus, Endangered Species Recovery Program, Turlock, California, United States of America
| | - Scott E. Phillips
- California State University Stanislaus, Endangered Species Recovery Program, Turlock, California, United States of America
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Kotthoff M, Rüdel H, Jürling H, Severin K, Hennecke S, Friesen A, Koschorreck J. First evidence of anticoagulant rodenticides in fish and suspended particulate matter: spatial and temporal distribution in German freshwater aquatic systems. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:7315-7325. [PMID: 29497938 PMCID: PMC6447514 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) have been used for decades for rodent control worldwide. Research on the exposure of the environment and accumulation of these active substances in biota has been focused on terrestrial food webs, but few data are available on the impact of ARs on aquatic systems and water organisms. To fill this gap, we analyzed liver samples of bream (Abramis brama) and co-located suspended particulate matter (SPM) from the German Environmental Specimen Bank (ESB). An appropriate method was developed for the determination of eight different ARs, including first- and second-generation ARs, in fish liver and SPM. Applying this method to bream liver samples from 17 and 18 sampling locations of the years 2011 and 2015, respectively, five ARs were found at levels above limits of quantifications (LOQs, 0.2 to 2 μg kg-1). For 2015, brodifacoum was detected in 88% of the samples with a maximum concentration of 12.5 μg kg-1. Moreover, difenacoum, bromadiolone, difethialone, and flocoumafen were detected in some samples above LOQ. In contrast, no first generation AR was detected in the ESB samples. In SPM, only bromadiolone could be detected in 56% of the samples at levels up to 9.24 μg kg-1. A temporal trend analysis of bream liver from two sampling locations over a period of up to 23 years revealed a significant trend for brodifacoum at one of the sampling locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Kotthoff
- Department Environmental and Food Analysis, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Auf dem Aberg 1, 57392, Schmallenberg, Germany.
| | - Heinz Rüdel
- Department Environmental Specimen Bank and Elemental Analysis, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Auf dem Aberg 1, 57392, Schmallenberg, Germany
| | - Heinrich Jürling
- Department Environmental and Food Analysis, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Auf dem Aberg 1, 57392, Schmallenberg, Germany
| | - Kevin Severin
- Department Environmental and Food Analysis, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Auf dem Aberg 1, 57392, Schmallenberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Hennecke
- Department Environmental and Food Analysis, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Auf dem Aberg 1, 57392, Schmallenberg, Germany
| | - Anton Friesen
- German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), 06813, Dessau-Rosslau, Germany
| | - Jan Koschorreck
- German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), 06813, Dessau-Rosslau, Germany
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10
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López-Perea JJ, Camarero PR, Sánchez-Barbudo IS, Mateo R. Urbanization and cattle density are determinants in the exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides of non-target wildlife. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 244:801-808. [PMID: 30390453 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.10.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The persistence and toxicity of second generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) in animal tissues make these compounds dangerous by biomagnification in predatory species. Here we studied the levels of SGARs in non-target species of wildlife and the environmental factors that influence such exposure. Liver samples of terrestrial vertebrates (n = 244) found dead between 2007 and 2016 in the region of Aragón (NE Spain) were analysed. The presence of SGARs was statistically analysed with binary or ordinal logistic models to study the effect of habitat characteristics including human population density, percentage of urban surface, livestock densities and surface of different types of crops. SGARs residues were detected in 83 (34%) of the animals and levels >200 ng/g were found in common raven (67%), red fox (50%), red kite (38%), Eurasian eagle-owl (25%), stone marten (23%), Eurasian buzzard (17%), northern marsh harrier (17%), and Eurasian badger (14%). The spatial analysis revealed that the presence of SGARs residues in wildlife was more associated with the use of these products as biocides in urban areas and cattle farms rather than as plant protection products in agricultural fields. This information permits to identify potential habitats where SGARs may pose a risk for predatory birds and mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhon J López-Perea
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Pablo R Camarero
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Ines S Sánchez-Barbudo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain.
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11
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Lohr MT. Anticoagulant rodenticide exposure in an Australian predatory bird increases with proximity to developed habitat. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 643:134-144. [PMID: 29936157 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.06.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) are commonly used worldwide to control commensal rodents. Second generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) are highly persistent and have the potential to cause secondary poisoning in wildlife. To date no comprehensive assessment has been conducted on AR residues in Australian wildlife. My aim was to measure AR exposure in a common widespread owl species, the Southern Boobook (Ninox boobook) using boobooks found dead or moribund in order to assess the spatial distribution of this potential threat. A high percentage of boobooks were exposed (72.6%) and many showed potentially dangerous levels of AR residue (>0.1 mg/kg) in liver tissue (50.7%). Multiple rodenticides were detected in the livers of 38.4% of boobooks tested. Total liver concentration of ARs correlated positively with the proportions of developed areas around points where dead boobooks were recovered and negatively with proportions of agricultural and native land covers. Total AR concentration in livers correlated more closely with land use type at the spatial scale of a boobook's home range than at smaller or larger spatial scales. Two rodenticides not used by the public (difethialone and flocoumafen) were detected in boobooks indicating that professional use of ARs contributed to secondary exposure. Multiple ARs were also detected in recent fledglings, indicating probable exposure prior to fledging. Taken together, these results suggest that AR exposure poses a serious threat to native predators in Australia, particularly in species using urban and peri-urban areas and species with large home ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Lohr
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 100 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, Western Australia 6027, Australia.
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12
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Lohr MT, Davis RA. Anticoagulant rodenticide use, non-target impacts and regulation: A case study from Australia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 634:1372-1384. [PMID: 29710637 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.04.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The impacts of anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) on non-target wildlife have been well documented in Europe and North America. While these studies are informative, patterns of non-target poisoning of wildlife elsewhere in the world may differ substantially from patterns occurring in Australia and other countries outside of cool temperate regions due to differences in the types of ARs used, patterns of use, legislation governing sales, and potential pathways of secondary exposure. Most of these differences suggest that the extent and severity of AR poisoning in wildlife may be greater in Australia than elsewhere in the world. While many anecdotal accounts of rodenticide toxicity were found - especially in conjunction with government control efforts and island eradications - no published studies have directly tested rodenticide exposure in non-target Australian wildlife in a comprehensive manner. The effects of private and agricultural use of rodenticides on wildlife have not been adequately assessed. Synthesis of reviewed literature suggests that anticoagulant rodenticides may pose previously unrecognised threats to wildlife and indigenous people in Australia and other nations with diverse and abundant reptile faunas relative to countries with cooler climates where most rodenticide ecotoxicology studies have been conducted. To address the identified knowledge gaps we suggest additional research into the role of reptiles as potential AR vectors, potential novel routes of human exposure, and comprehensive monitoring of rodenticide exposure in Australian wildlife, especially threatened and endangered omnivores and carnivores. Additionally, we recommend regulatory action to harmonise Australian management of ARs with existing and developing global norms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Lohr
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 100 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, Western Australia 6027, Australia.
| | - Robert A Davis
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 100 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, Western Australia 6027, Australia.
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13
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Sainsbury KA, Shore RF, Schofield H, Croose E, Pereira MG, Sleep D, Kitchener AC, Hantke G, McDonald RA. Long-term increase in secondary exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides in European polecats Mustela putorius in Great Britain. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 236:689-698. [PMID: 29438955 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
As a result of legal protection and population recovery, European polecats (Mustela putorius) in Great Britain are expanding into areas associated with greater usage of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). We analysed polecat livers collected from road casualties from 2013 to 2016 for residues of five SGARs. We related variation in residues to polecat traits and potential exposure pathways, by analysing stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in their whiskers. 54 of 68 (79%) polecats had detectable residues of at least one SGAR. Bromadiolone (71%) was the most frequently detected compound, followed by difenacoum (53%) and brodifacoum (35%). Applying historical limits of detection to allow comparison between these new data and previous assessments, we show that in the 25 years from 1992 to 2016 inclusive, the rate of detection of SGARs in polecats in Britain has increased by a factor of 1.7. The probability of SGAR detection was positively related to increasing values of δ15N, suggesting that polecats feeding at a higher trophic level were more likely to be exposed. Total concentrations of SGARs in polecats with detectable residues were higher in polecats collected in arable compared to pastoral habitats, and in the west compared to the east of Britain. The number of compounds detected and total concentrations of SGARs increased with polecat age. There was no evidence of regional or seasonal variation in the probability of detecting SGARs, suggesting that the current risk of exposure to SGARs does not vary seasonally and has increased (from that in the 1990s) throughout the polecat's range. We recommend quantification of current practices in rodenticide usage, particularly in the light of recent regulatory changes, to enable assessment and mitigation of the risks of secondary exposure to rodenticides in non-target wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Sainsbury
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Richard F Shore
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Henry Schofield
- The Vincent Wildlife Trust, 3 & 4 Bronsil Courtyard, Eastnor, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1EP, UK
| | - Elizabeth Croose
- The Vincent Wildlife Trust, 3 & 4 Bronsil Courtyard, Eastnor, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1EP, UK
| | - M Gloria Pereira
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Darren Sleep
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Andrew C Kitchener
- National Museums Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF, UK; Institute of Geography, School of Geosciences, University of Edinburgh, Drummond Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9XP, UK
| | - Georg Hantke
- National Museums Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF, UK
| | - Robbie A McDonald
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK.
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Fraser D, Mouton A, Serieys LEK, Cole S, Carver S, Vandewoude S, Lappin M, Riley SP, Wayne R. Genome‐wide expression reveals multiple systemic effects associated with detection of anticoagulant poisons in bobcats (
Lynx rufus
). Mol Ecol 2018; 27:1170-1187. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.14531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Devaughn Fraser
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles CA USA
| | - Alice Mouton
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles CA USA
| | - Laurel E. K. Serieys
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles CA USA
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa Biological Sciences University of Cape Town Cape Town South Africa
- Environmental Studies Department University of California Santa Cruz CA USA
| | - Steve Cole
- Department of Medicine University of California Los Angeles CA USA
| | - Scott Carver
- School of Biological Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart TAS Australia
| | - Sue Vandewoude
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology Colorado State University Fort Collins CO USA
| | - Michael Lappin
- Department of Clinical Sciences Colorado State University Fort Collins CO USA
| | - Seth P.D. Riley
- National Park Service Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Thousand Oaks CA USA
| | - Robert Wayne
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles CA USA
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Schumaker NH, Brookes A. HexSim: a modeling environment for ecology and conservation. LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY 2018; 33:197-211. [PMID: 29545713 PMCID: PMC5846496 DOI: 10.1007/s10980-017-0605-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Simulation models are increasingly used in both theoretical and applied studies to explore system responses to natural and anthropogenic forcing functions, develop defensible predictions of future conditions, challenge simplifying assumptions that facilitated past research, and to train students in scientific concepts and technology. Researcher's increased use of simulation models has created a demand for new platforms that balance performance, utility, and flexibility. OBJECTIVES We describe HexSim, a powerful new spatially-explicit, individual-based modeling framework that will have applications spanning diverse landscape settings, species, stressors, and disciplines (e.g. ecology, conservation, genetics, epidemiology). We begin with a model overview and follow-up with a discussion of key formative studies that influenced HexSim's development. We then describe specific model applications of relevance to readers of Landscape Ecology. Our goal is to introduce readers to this new modeling platform, and to provide examples characterizing its novelty and utility. CONCLUSIONS With this publication, we conclude a >10 year development effort, and assert that our HexSim model is mature, robust, extremely well tested, and ready for adoption by the research community. The HexSim model, documentation, worked examples, and other materials can be freely obtained from the website www.hexsim.net.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan H Schumaker
- US Environmental Protection Agency, 200 SW 35th Street, Corvallis, OR, 97330. USA
| | - Allen Brookes
- US Environmental Protection Agency, 200 SW 35th Street, Corvallis, OR, 97330. USA
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16
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Elmeros M, Lassen P, Bossi R, Topping CJ. Exposure of stone marten (Martes foina) and polecat (Mustela putorius) to anticoagulant rodenticides: Effects of regulatory restrictions of rodenticide use. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 612:1358-1364. [PMID: 28898942 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
When anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) are used to control rodent populations there is also a widespread secondary exposure of non-target predators to ARs. To reduce secondary exposure, regulatory restrictions in AR usage were tightened in Denmark in 2011. The restrictions included the cessation of AR use for plant protection and any use away from buildings, as well as limitations in private consumers' access to ARs. To quantify and evaluate the efficiency of the regulatory measures to reduce secondary exposure, we analysed ARs in liver tissue from 40 stone martens (Martes foina) and 40 polecats (Mustela putorius) collected before and 31 stone martens and 29 polecats collected after the restrictions were imposed. No declines in the prevalence ARs were detected following the regulatory restrictions in either stone marten (Before: 98%, After: 100%) or polecat (Before: 93%, After: 97%). The total AR concentration was higher in stone martens than in polecats in both sampling periods. Between the two sampling periods, the total AR concentrations in the mustelids increased (P<0.001). The increase was significant for stone marten (Before: 419ng/g ww, After: 1116ng/g ww, P<0.001), but not for polecat (Before: 170ng/g ww, After: 339ng/g ww). Overall, the total AR concentration was positively correlated to the urban area and the area used for Christmas tree production in which ARs were regularly used before 2011. The regulatory restrictions in AR usage did not reduce exposure of non-target stone martens and polecats. The temporal and spatial patterns of AR concentrations in predators indicate that chemical rodent control in and around buildings is the dominant source for the exposure of non-target predators in intensively human-dominated landscapes in Denmark. The results suggest that non-chemical methods for rodents control at buildings are necessary to prevent widespread secondary AR exposure of predators in human modified landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Elmeros
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Grenåvej 14, DK-8410 Rønde, Denmark.
| | - Pia Lassen
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Rossana Bossi
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
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Perspectives on Existing and Potential New Alternatives to Anticoagulant Rodenticides and the Implications for Integrated Pest Management. EMERGING TOPICS IN ECOTOXICOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-64377-9_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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18
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Ecological Factors Driving Uptake of Anticoagulant Rodenticides in Predators. EMERGING TOPICS IN ECOTOXICOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-64377-9_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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19
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Secondary Exposure to Anticoagulant Rodenticides and Effects on Predators. EMERGING TOPICS IN ECOTOXICOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-64377-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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