A new study found that crocodiles in the Georgia swamps carry disturbing levels of mercury, raising concerns about the health of the wider ecosystems – and even the risks of humans.
Researchers from the University of Georgia, maritime extension and Georgia Sea Grant studied more than 100 American crocodiles (Mississippiensis) Through three sites: Okefenkee swamp, Jekyl Island and Yawkey Wildlife Center.
Discover that mercury levels were unusually high – especially in the okefenkee swamp, where the toxic metal was measured to eight times higher than other regions.
“Mercury is extremely deadly toxins for living organisms,” says Jeep Bayers, co -author of the study. Toxicology and environmental chemistry.
The results raise red flags about the arrival of Mercury through the food chain. While mercury is known to accumulate in small creatures under the web, the new research reveals a large accumulation in a higher-to-crocodile predator. This indicates that mercury pollution is widespread and affects large parts of the ecosystem.
“Crocodiles are very old creatures, and we can look at them in these areas as an indicator of what may happen in the ecosystem,” says Christine Zimets. “Their study can be related to many different things in the food network.”
The study found that age and diet matters. The largest and major crocodile had the highest mercury levels, not only because of its longer exposure to the element, but also because of eating a larger polluted prey.
Hatchlings also showed high levels, indicating that mercury can be passed from the mother to the offspring through the egg yolk.
Mercury often enters the waterways through industrial surface flow and precipitation. Once there, it can accumulate in fish and wildlife.
The researchers say, especially in the areas associated with Okewannee and St. Marys.
The study raises questions about the sources of mercury and its full impact on the ecosystem, says Zemaitis. “Now that we knew this about one of the predators in these systems, we ask what is affected as well?”
Learn more about the study: The site’s genetics are from mercury concentrations in US crocodiles
Main Image: Okefenokee, Georgia. Credit: Getti
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