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\n  \n 2025\n \n \n (2)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Black mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis) as novel bioindicators of urban heavy metal pollution.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Humphries, M.; Evans, N.; Price, C.; and Alexander, G., J.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Pollution, 382. 10 2025.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"BlackPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Black mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis) as novel bioindicators of urban heavy metal pollution},\n type = {article},\n year = {2025},\n keywords = {Bioaccumulation,Biomonitoring,Heavy metals,Snakes},\n volume = {382},\n month = {10},\n publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},\n day = {1},\n id = {a72cade9-f57d-3985-9659-b472896ef50f},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:04.440Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:16:36.795Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Biomonitoring studies have documented the presence of contaminants in various urban wildlife species, but research has predominantly focused on avian and mammalian species. Despite snakes possessing several traits that make them excellent subjects for ecotoxicological studies, knowledge on their capacity to serve as bioindicators remains limited, particularly in African ecosystems where their utility has not previously been assessed. In this study, we investigated the use of black mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis), a large-bodied snake species native to sub-Saharan Africa, to serve as a bioindicator for heavy metal pollution within an urban environment. We examined concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in ventral scale clippings and compared these to concentrations in internal tissue samples from dead specimens opportunistically collected around the city of Durban, South Africa. Our findings demonstrated that black mambas are exposed to and accumulate heavy metals within their tissues. Metal concentrations tended to be higher in scales than liver and muscle tissue and displayed substantial variability, which was not strongly linked to body size or sex. We found a clear association between land use and heavy metal exposure in black mambas. Snakes living in connected green spaces around the city generally had significantly lower heavy metal concentrations in their scales compared to those in more industrial and commercial areas. Our findings indicate that black mambas can act as valuable sentinels of heavy metal pollution, enabling the detection of fine-scale local patterns. This suggests that snakes could be valuable models for environmental monitoring elsewhere in Africa.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Humphries, Marc and Evans, Nick and Price, Cormac and Alexander, Graham J.},\n doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126730},\n journal = {Environmental Pollution}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Biomonitoring studies have documented the presence of contaminants in various urban wildlife species, but research has predominantly focused on avian and mammalian species. Despite snakes possessing several traits that make them excellent subjects for ecotoxicological studies, knowledge on their capacity to serve as bioindicators remains limited, particularly in African ecosystems where their utility has not previously been assessed. In this study, we investigated the use of black mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis), a large-bodied snake species native to sub-Saharan Africa, to serve as a bioindicator for heavy metal pollution within an urban environment. We examined concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in ventral scale clippings and compared these to concentrations in internal tissue samples from dead specimens opportunistically collected around the city of Durban, South Africa. Our findings demonstrated that black mambas are exposed to and accumulate heavy metals within their tissues. Metal concentrations tended to be higher in scales than liver and muscle tissue and displayed substantial variability, which was not strongly linked to body size or sex. We found a clear association between land use and heavy metal exposure in black mambas. Snakes living in connected green spaces around the city generally had significantly lower heavy metal concentrations in their scales compared to those in more industrial and commercial areas. Our findings indicate that black mambas can act as valuable sentinels of heavy metal pollution, enabling the detection of fine-scale local patterns. This suggests that snakes could be valuable models for environmental monitoring elsewhere in Africa.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Exposure of sub-adult Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) to extreme lead concentrations: a 48-week experimental study with implications for wild populations.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Davhana, F.; Humphries, M.; Hunter, G.; Seoraj-Pillai, N.; and Combrink, X.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n 6 2025.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"ExposurePaper\n  \n \n \n \"ExposureWebsite\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@misc{\n title = {Exposure of sub-adult Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) to extreme lead concentrations: a 48-week experimental study with implications for wild populations},\n type = {misc},\n year = {2025},\n websites = {https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6966105/v1},\n month = {6},\n day = {30},\n institution = {Research Square},\n id = {aa933819-bfdb-3e7f-bca5-bd5d13879913},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:05.049Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:52.919Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {<p>Lead (Pb) poisoning poses a significant threat to wildlife. A primary cause of Pb poisoning is the unintentional ingestion of Pb ammunition fishing weights, which are still used for hunting and fishing in numerous regions globally. While the effects of Pb poisoning on birds and mammals are well-established, impacts on reptiles are less well documented and difficult to assess under field conditions. In this study, we investigated the effects of extreme Pb exposure on captive sub-adult Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus; n = 18). We administered Pb dosages in the form of fishing weights (54–215 g) and monitored changes in blood lead levels (BPb), packed cell volumes (PCVs), growth, and body condition over a 48-week period. Crocodiles exhibited a remarkable tolerance to exceptionally high Pb exposure over the duration of the study. Despite the lack of obvious clinical signs of Pb toxicity, elevated BPb concentrations were linked to lower PCVs, indicating anaemia across all treatment groups by week eight. However, crocodiles showed a sustained erythropoietic response which may be contributing to their resilience to acute Pb toxicity. While Pb exposure did not significantly affect body condition, it was associated with a discernible reduction in weight gain over the duration of the study. Our estimation of a 5.8 to 7.3-year timeframe for complete dissolution of the Pb fishing weights in the experimental crocodiles' stomachs carries significant implications for wild populations, which are likely to be exposed to Pb for far longer than 48-week duration of this study.</p>},\n bibtype = {misc},\n author = {Davhana, Fortunate and Humphries, Marc and Hunter, Gareth and Seoraj-Pillai, Nimmi and Combrink, Xander},\n doi = {10.21203/rs.3.rs-6966105/v1}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n

Lead (Pb) poisoning poses a significant threat to wildlife. A primary cause of Pb poisoning is the unintentional ingestion of Pb ammunition fishing weights, which are still used for hunting and fishing in numerous regions globally. While the effects of Pb poisoning on birds and mammals are well-established, impacts on reptiles are less well documented and difficult to assess under field conditions. In this study, we investigated the effects of extreme Pb exposure on captive sub-adult Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus; n = 18). We administered Pb dosages in the form of fishing weights (54–215 g) and monitored changes in blood lead levels (BPb), packed cell volumes (PCVs), growth, and body condition over a 48-week period. Crocodiles exhibited a remarkable tolerance to exceptionally high Pb exposure over the duration of the study. Despite the lack of obvious clinical signs of Pb toxicity, elevated BPb concentrations were linked to lower PCVs, indicating anaemia across all treatment groups by week eight. However, crocodiles showed a sustained erythropoietic response which may be contributing to their resilience to acute Pb toxicity. While Pb exposure did not significantly affect body condition, it was associated with a discernible reduction in weight gain over the duration of the study. Our estimation of a 5.8 to 7.3-year timeframe for complete dissolution of the Pb fishing weights in the experimental crocodiles' stomachs carries significant implications for wild populations, which are likely to be exposed to Pb for far longer than 48-week duration of this study.

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\n  \n 2024\n \n \n (4)\n \n \n
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\n \n \n
\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sub-lethal impacts of lead poisoning on blood biochemistry, immune function and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity in Cape (Gyps coprotheres) and white-backed (G. africanus) Vulture chicks.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n van den Heever, L.; Naidoo, V.; Coetzer, T.; Eyssen, L.; Hewlett, J.; Smit-Robinson, H., A.; and McKechnie, A., E.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Research, 245. 3 2024.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"Sub-lethalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Sub-lethal impacts of lead poisoning on blood biochemistry, immune function and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity in Cape (Gyps coprotheres) and white-backed (G. africanus) Vulture chicks},\n type = {article},\n year = {2024},\n keywords = {Biochemistry,Immune function,Lead,Vultures,δ-ALAD},\n volume = {245},\n month = {3},\n publisher = {Academic Press Inc.},\n day = {15},\n id = {8bd2634a-3b30-34fc-8a9b-6b346f12a5e7},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:06.942Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:54.051Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Although the prevalence of lead poisoning in southern Africa's Gyps vultures is now well-established, its finer physiological effects on these endangered species remain poorly characterised. We evaluated the sub-lethal impact of acute lead exposure on Cape and White-backed Vulture chicks from two breeding colonies in South Africa, by analysing its possible effects on key blood biochemistry parameters, immune function, packed cell volume and δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity. All 37 White-backed Vulture nestlings sampled displayed elevated lead levels (>10 μg/dL), and seven had blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL. Eight of 28 Cape Vulture nestlings sampled had blood [Pb] exceeding background exposure, with one showing blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL. Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity was significantly and negatively related to blood [Pb] in nestlings from both species, with 50% inhibition of the enzyme predicted to occur at blood [Pb] = 52.8 μg/dL (White-backed Vulture) and 18.8 μg/dL (Cape Vulture). Although no significant relationship was found between % packed cell volume (PCV) and blood [Pb], the relatively lower mean PCV of 32.9% in White-backed Vulture chicks, combined with normal serum protein values, is likely indicative of depression or haemolytic anaemia. The leukogram was consistent in both species, although the presence of immature heterophils suggested an inflammatory response in White-backed Vulture chicks with blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL. Values for cholesterol, triglycerides, total serum protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) were consistent with values previously reported. Calcium and phosphorus concentrations suggested no adverse effects on bone metabolism. A significant decrease in urea: uric acid (U:UA) ratio at blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL in White-backed Vulture chicks, brought about by a decrease in urea production, raises the possibility of hepatic abnormality. These results suggest that δ-ALAD activity may serve as a sensitive biomarker of lead toxicity in both species, while highlighting the need to better understand the significant variability in sensitivity that is observed, even between closely related members of the same genus.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {van den Heever, Linda and Naidoo, Vinny and Coetzer, Theresa and Eyssen, Lauren and Hewlett, Jennie and Smit-Robinson, Hanneline A. and McKechnie, Andrew E.},\n doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2023.117926},\n journal = {Environmental Research}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Although the prevalence of lead poisoning in southern Africa's Gyps vultures is now well-established, its finer physiological effects on these endangered species remain poorly characterised. We evaluated the sub-lethal impact of acute lead exposure on Cape and White-backed Vulture chicks from two breeding colonies in South Africa, by analysing its possible effects on key blood biochemistry parameters, immune function, packed cell volume and δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity. All 37 White-backed Vulture nestlings sampled displayed elevated lead levels (>10 μg/dL), and seven had blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL. Eight of 28 Cape Vulture nestlings sampled had blood [Pb] exceeding background exposure, with one showing blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL. Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) activity was significantly and negatively related to blood [Pb] in nestlings from both species, with 50% inhibition of the enzyme predicted to occur at blood [Pb] = 52.8 μg/dL (White-backed Vulture) and 18.8 μg/dL (Cape Vulture). Although no significant relationship was found between % packed cell volume (PCV) and blood [Pb], the relatively lower mean PCV of 32.9% in White-backed Vulture chicks, combined with normal serum protein values, is likely indicative of depression or haemolytic anaemia. The leukogram was consistent in both species, although the presence of immature heterophils suggested an inflammatory response in White-backed Vulture chicks with blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL. Values for cholesterol, triglycerides, total serum protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) were consistent with values previously reported. Calcium and phosphorus concentrations suggested no adverse effects on bone metabolism. A significant decrease in urea: uric acid (U:UA) ratio at blood [Pb] >100 μg/dL in White-backed Vulture chicks, brought about by a decrease in urea production, raises the possibility of hepatic abnormality. These results suggest that δ-ALAD activity may serve as a sensitive biomarker of lead toxicity in both species, while highlighting the need to better understand the significant variability in sensitivity that is observed, even between closely related members of the same genus.\n
\n\n\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Effects of lead on avian thermoregulation in the heat: An experimental test with pied crows (Corvus albus).\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n McKechnie, A., E.; Freeman, M., T.; Kemp, R.; Wolter, K.; and Naidoo, V.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 110. 9 2024.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"EffectsPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Effects of lead on avian thermoregulation in the heat: An experimental test with pied crows (Corvus albus)},\n type = {article},\n year = {2024},\n keywords = {ecotoxicology,evaporative cooling,heavy metals,hyperthermia,pollutant},\n volume = {110},\n month = {9},\n publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},\n day = {1},\n id = {17086922-19dc-3f70-9aef-859bb1236ca4},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:08.199Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:55.044Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Many of the negative physiological effects of lead involve the hypothalamus, but the possibility that thermoregulation is affected has received little attention. We tested the hypothesis that lead exposure reduces avian thermoregulatory performance under hot conditions in pied crows (Corvus albus) experimentally exposed to lead in their diet. Crows in our high lead treatment (blood [Pb] = 87.3 ± 44.7 μg dL−1) showed significantly higher air temperature (Tair) inflections for evaporative water loss (EWL) and resting metabolic rate (RMR) compared to control (6.4 ± 1.8 μg dL−1) or intermediate (53.9 ± 23.7 μg dL−1) lead groups, which did not differ. EWL, RMR and body temperature (Tb) all increased more rapidly at Tair > Tb in the high lead treatment. In contrast, neither maximum Tair tolerated by the crows nor maximum Tb varied with treatment. Our data reveal that water and energy balance during hot weather is affected by lead exposure.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {McKechnie, Andrew E. and Freeman, Marc T. and Kemp, Ryno and Wolter, Kerri and Naidoo, Vinny},\n doi = {10.1016/j.etap.2024.104519},\n journal = {Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Many of the negative physiological effects of lead involve the hypothalamus, but the possibility that thermoregulation is affected has received little attention. We tested the hypothesis that lead exposure reduces avian thermoregulatory performance under hot conditions in pied crows (Corvus albus) experimentally exposed to lead in their diet. Crows in our high lead treatment (blood [Pb] = 87.3 ± 44.7 μg dL−1) showed significantly higher air temperature (Tair) inflections for evaporative water loss (EWL) and resting metabolic rate (RMR) compared to control (6.4 ± 1.8 μg dL−1) or intermediate (53.9 ± 23.7 μg dL−1) lead groups, which did not differ. EWL, RMR and body temperature (Tb) all increased more rapidly at Tair > Tb in the high lead treatment. In contrast, neither maximum Tair tolerated by the crows nor maximum Tb varied with treatment. Our data reveal that water and energy balance during hot weather is affected by lead exposure.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Metaaloverdracht van geschoten wildkarkassen naar bromvliegen (Calliphoridae) in KwaZulu-Natal (Zuid-Afrika).\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Kempen, M.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Ph.D. Thesis, 2024.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"MetaaloverdrachtPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@phdthesis{\n title = {Metaaloverdracht van geschoten wildkarkassen naar bromvliegen (Calliphoridae) in KwaZulu-Natal (Zuid-Afrika)},\n type = {phdthesis},\n year = {2024},\n institution = {Universiteit Antwerpen},\n id = {8709bae2-2266-3538-a74f-15456fa80a0e},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:08.766Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:08:15.500Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {phdthesis},\n author = {Kempen, Mira}\n}
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Validation of the Lead Care II System in Cape vultures (Gyps coprotheres) in comparison to ICP-MS using pure standards.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Naidoo, V.; and Wolter, K.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 110. 9 2024.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"ValidationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Validation of the Lead Care II System in Cape vultures (Gyps coprotheres) in comparison to ICP-MS using pure standards},\n type = {article},\n year = {2024},\n keywords = {Accuracy,Cape vultures,ICP-MS,Lead,LeadCare,Precision,Validation},\n volume = {110},\n month = {9},\n publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},\n day = {1},\n id = {207a7e7a-e89f-347f-970a-6145f859f77b},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:14.864Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:59.870Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead toxicosis remains a concern in raptors, especially following feeding on carcasses sourced from hunting. Rapid diagnosis of lead exposure and easy field monitoring is desirable. The LeadCareII analytical system, validated for rapid diagnoses of lead toxicity in humans, has been described as a useful evaluation system in various species. For this study we attempt to validate the LeadCareII system in the Cape Vulture (CV) (Gyps coprotheres). Blood samples from CV housed under captive conditions and low background lead exposure, were pooled and spiked with known concentrations of a lead standard (0–60 µg/dL). Samples were analyzed by the LeadCareII system and by ICP-MS. The final results showed that despite good linearity the LeadCareII system underestimated lead concentrations by up to 50 %. While the results can be corrected by the derived equation, this is not supported due to the large underestimations evident. The reason for the underestimation is presently unknown.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Naidoo, V. and Wolter, K.},\n doi = {10.1016/j.etap.2024.104530},\n journal = {Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Lead toxicosis remains a concern in raptors, especially following feeding on carcasses sourced from hunting. Rapid diagnosis of lead exposure and easy field monitoring is desirable. The LeadCareII analytical system, validated for rapid diagnoses of lead toxicity in humans, has been described as a useful evaluation system in various species. For this study we attempt to validate the LeadCareII system in the Cape Vulture (CV) (Gyps coprotheres). Blood samples from CV housed under captive conditions and low background lead exposure, were pooled and spiked with known concentrations of a lead standard (0–60 µg/dL). Samples were analyzed by the LeadCareII system and by ICP-MS. The final results showed that despite good linearity the LeadCareII system underestimated lead concentrations by up to 50 %. While the results can be corrected by the derived equation, this is not supported due to the large underestimations evident. The reason for the underestimation is presently unknown.\n
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\n  \n 2023\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Effects of lead poisoning on South Africa's Gyps vultures.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Van Den Heever, L.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report 2023.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"EffectsPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {Effects of lead poisoning on South Africa's Gyps vultures},\n type = {techreport},\n year = {2023},\n id = {d7ae5a40-84f1-3893-be2c-dd00bd5984f2},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:05.684Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:53.274Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Van Den Heever, Linda}\n}
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\n  \n 2022\n \n \n (3)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n High lead exposure and clinical signs of toxicosis in wild Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from a World Heritage site: Lake St Lucia estuarine system, South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Humphries, M.; Myburgh, J.; Campbell, R.; and Combrink, X.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Chemosphere, 303. 9 2022.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"HighPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {High lead exposure and clinical signs of toxicosis in wild Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from a World Heritage site: Lake St Lucia estuarine system, South Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2022},\n keywords = {Crocodilians,Ecotoxicology,Fishing weights,Lead poisoning},\n volume = {303},\n month = {9},\n publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},\n day = {1},\n id = {5f32184f-f159-33e5-ae75-a11cf2a8d5d7},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:03.782Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:50.701Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead (Pb) exposure is a widespread wildlife conservation threat, but impacts on reptile populations remain poorly documented. In this study, we examined Pb exposure and accumulation in a wild population of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) at Lake St Lucia, South Africa. Recreational angling has occurred in the area since the 1930s and incidental ingestion of Pb fishing weights has previously been identified as a major source of Pb poisoning in the local crocodile population. In 2019, we sampled blood and tail fat tissues from wild (n = 22) and captive (n = 3) crocodiles at Lake St Lucia to investigate potential impacts of chronic Pb exposure on crocodilian health. Lead was detected in blood samples of all wild crocodiles, although concentrations varied widely between individuals (86–13,100 ng ml−1). The incidence of Pb poisoning was higher in male crocodiles, with mean blood lead (BPb) concentrations in males (3780 ± 4690 ng ml−1) significantly (p < 0.001) higher compared to females (266 ± 230 ng ml−1). Blood Pb concentrations were correlated with concentrations measured in tail fat tissue (n.d – 4175 ng g−1 wet wt.). Although most of the crocodiles sampled appeared to be in good physical condition, highly elevated BPb concentrations (>6000 ng ml−1) were associated with markedly suppressed packed cell volumes (4.6–10.8%) and severe deterioration in tooth condition. These findings suggest that anaemia and tooth loss may be clinical signs of long-term environmental exposure to Pb. Although previously undocumented in crocodilians, these symptoms are consistent with Pb poisoning observed in birds and mammals, and suggest that crocodilians may be more susceptible to the long-term toxic effects of Pb than previously thought. In light of these findings, we suggest that the impact of accumulated Pb on crocodilian fitness, reproduction and mortality requires urgent attention.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Humphries, Marc and Myburgh, Jan and Campbell, Robert and Combrink, Xander},\n doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134977},\n journal = {Chemosphere}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Lead (Pb) exposure is a widespread wildlife conservation threat, but impacts on reptile populations remain poorly documented. In this study, we examined Pb exposure and accumulation in a wild population of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) at Lake St Lucia, South Africa. Recreational angling has occurred in the area since the 1930s and incidental ingestion of Pb fishing weights has previously been identified as a major source of Pb poisoning in the local crocodile population. In 2019, we sampled blood and tail fat tissues from wild (n = 22) and captive (n = 3) crocodiles at Lake St Lucia to investigate potential impacts of chronic Pb exposure on crocodilian health. Lead was detected in blood samples of all wild crocodiles, although concentrations varied widely between individuals (86–13,100 ng ml−1). The incidence of Pb poisoning was higher in male crocodiles, with mean blood lead (BPb) concentrations in males (3780 ± 4690 ng ml−1) significantly (p < 0.001) higher compared to females (266 ± 230 ng ml−1). Blood Pb concentrations were correlated with concentrations measured in tail fat tissue (n.d – 4175 ng g−1 wet wt.). Although most of the crocodiles sampled appeared to be in good physical condition, highly elevated BPb concentrations (>6000 ng ml−1) were associated with markedly suppressed packed cell volumes (4.6–10.8%) and severe deterioration in tooth condition. These findings suggest that anaemia and tooth loss may be clinical signs of long-term environmental exposure to Pb. Although previously undocumented in crocodilians, these symptoms are consistent with Pb poisoning observed in birds and mammals, and suggest that crocodilians may be more susceptible to the long-term toxic effects of Pb than previously thought. In light of these findings, we suggest that the impact of accumulated Pb on crocodilian fitness, reproduction and mortality requires urgent attention.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Environmental lead reduces the resilience of bald eagle populations.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Hanley, B., J.; Dhondt, A., A.; Forzán, M., J.; Bunting, E., M.; Pokras, M., A.; Hynes, K., P.; Dominguez-Villegas, E.; and Schuler, K., L.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Journal of Wildlife Management, 86(2). 2 2022.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"EnvironmentalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Environmental lead reduces the resilience of bald eagle populations},\n type = {article},\n year = {2022},\n keywords = {Haliaeetus leucocephalus,Pb,ammunition,bald eagle,combinatorial optimization algorithm,lead,long-term growth rate,northeast United States,population dynamics,population matrix model},\n volume = {86},\n month = {2},\n publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc},\n day = {1},\n id = {9ca4d583-9855-3e80-9bc7-2aa867251752},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:12.799Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:58.411Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) are considered a recovery success in the United States after rebounding from near extirpation due to widespread use of the insecticide dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in the twentieth century. Although abundances of bald eagles have increased since DDT was banned, other contaminants have remained in the environment with unknown influence on eagle population trends. Ingestion of spent lead (Pb) ammunition, the source of Pb most available to eagles and other scavengers in the United States, is known to kill individual eagles, but the influence of the contaminant on overall population dynamics remains unclear, resulting in longstanding controversy over the continued legality of the use of Pb in terrestrial hunting ammunition. We hypothesized that mortalities from the ingestion of Pb reduced the long-term growth rate and resiliency of bald eagles in the northeast United States over the last 3 decades. We used Holling's definition of resilience (the ability of a system to absorb changes of state variables, driving variables, and parameters and still persist) to quantify how reduction in survival from Pb-associated mortalities reduced the likelihood of population persistence. We used a population matrix model and necropsy records gathered between 1990 and 2018 from a 7-state area to compare population dynamics under current versus hypothetical Pb-reduced and Pb-free scenarios. Despite a robust increase in eagle abundances in the northeast United States over that period, we estimated that deaths arising from ingestion of Pb was associated with a 4.2% (females) and 6.3% (males) reduction in the asymptotic long-term growth rate (lambda). Comparison between real (current) and counterfactual (Pb-reduced and Pb-free) population dynamics indicated that the deaths from acute Pb poisoning were additive because the mortality events were associated with marked reduction in annual survival performance of hatchlings and reproductive females. These shifts in survival performance were further associated with a reduction in resilience for hatchling (95.4%) and breeding (81.6%) female eagles. Counterintuitively, the current conditions produced an increase in resilience (68.9%) for immature and non-breeding female eagles over hypothetical Pb-free conditions, suggesting that the population of eagles in the northeast United States reorganized (in a population dynamics sense) to ensure population expansion despite additive mortalities associated with Pb. This study can be used by state and federal wildlife managers or non-governmental organizations to inform policy surrounding the use of lead ammunition or to educate hunters on the population-scale effects of their ammunition choices.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Hanley, Brenda J. and Dhondt, André A. and Forzán, María J. and Bunting, Elizabeth M. and Pokras, Mark A. and Hynes, Kevin P. and Dominguez-Villegas, Ernesto and Schuler, Krysten L.},\n doi = {10.1002/jwmg.22177},\n journal = {Journal of Wildlife Management},\n number = {2}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) are considered a recovery success in the United States after rebounding from near extirpation due to widespread use of the insecticide dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in the twentieth century. Although abundances of bald eagles have increased since DDT was banned, other contaminants have remained in the environment with unknown influence on eagle population trends. Ingestion of spent lead (Pb) ammunition, the source of Pb most available to eagles and other scavengers in the United States, is known to kill individual eagles, but the influence of the contaminant on overall population dynamics remains unclear, resulting in longstanding controversy over the continued legality of the use of Pb in terrestrial hunting ammunition. We hypothesized that mortalities from the ingestion of Pb reduced the long-term growth rate and resiliency of bald eagles in the northeast United States over the last 3 decades. We used Holling's definition of resilience (the ability of a system to absorb changes of state variables, driving variables, and parameters and still persist) to quantify how reduction in survival from Pb-associated mortalities reduced the likelihood of population persistence. We used a population matrix model and necropsy records gathered between 1990 and 2018 from a 7-state area to compare population dynamics under current versus hypothetical Pb-reduced and Pb-free scenarios. Despite a robust increase in eagle abundances in the northeast United States over that period, we estimated that deaths arising from ingestion of Pb was associated with a 4.2% (females) and 6.3% (males) reduction in the asymptotic long-term growth rate (lambda). Comparison between real (current) and counterfactual (Pb-reduced and Pb-free) population dynamics indicated that the deaths from acute Pb poisoning were additive because the mortality events were associated with marked reduction in annual survival performance of hatchlings and reproductive females. These shifts in survival performance were further associated with a reduction in resilience for hatchling (95.4%) and breeding (81.6%) female eagles. Counterintuitively, the current conditions produced an increase in resilience (68.9%) for immature and non-breeding female eagles over hypothetical Pb-free conditions, suggesting that the population of eagles in the northeast United States reorganized (in a population dynamics sense) to ensure population expansion despite additive mortalities associated with Pb. This study can be used by state and federal wildlife managers or non-governmental organizations to inform policy surrounding the use of lead ammunition or to educate hunters on the population-scale effects of their ammunition choices.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead in the marine environment: concentrations and effects on invertebrates.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Botté, A.; Seguin, C.; Nahrgang, J.; Zaidi, M.; Guery, J.; and Leignel, V.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n 3 2022.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@misc{\n title = {Lead in the marine environment: concentrations and effects on invertebrates},\n type = {misc},\n year = {2022},\n source = {Ecotoxicology},\n keywords = {Contamination,Lead,Marine invertebrates,Metallic trace elements},\n pages = {194-207},\n volume = {31},\n issue = {2},\n month = {3},\n publisher = {Springer},\n day = {1},\n id = {8389d0c6-7b53-32f1-8dfb-50844aa8eb15},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:23.864Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:06.114Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead (Pb) is a non-essential metal naturally present in the environment and often complexed with other elements (e.g., copper, selenium, zinc). This metal has been used since ancient Egypt and its extraction has grown in the last centuries. It has been used until recently as a fuel additive and is currently used in the production of vehicle batteries, paint, and plumbing. Marine ecosystems are sinks of terrestrial contaminations; consequently, lead is detected in oceans and seas. Furthermore, lead is not biodegradable. It remains in soil, atmosphere, and water inducing multiple negative impacts on marine invertebrates (key species in trophic chain) disturbing ecological ecosystems. This review established our knowledge on lead accumulation and its effects on marine invertebrates (Annelida, Cnidaria, Crustacea, Echinodermata, and Mollusca). Lead may affect different stages of development from fertilization to larval development and can also lead to disturbance in reproduction and mortality. Furthermore, we discussed changes in the seawater chemistry due to Ocean Acidification, which can affect the solubility, speciation, and distribution of the lead, increasing potentially its toxicity to marine invertebrates.},\n bibtype = {misc},\n author = {Botté, A. and Seguin, C. and Nahrgang, J. and Zaidi, M. and Guery, J. and Leignel, V.},\n doi = {10.1007/s10646-021-02504-4}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Lead (Pb) is a non-essential metal naturally present in the environment and often complexed with other elements (e.g., copper, selenium, zinc). This metal has been used since ancient Egypt and its extraction has grown in the last centuries. It has been used until recently as a fuel additive and is currently used in the production of vehicle batteries, paint, and plumbing. Marine ecosystems are sinks of terrestrial contaminations; consequently, lead is detected in oceans and seas. Furthermore, lead is not biodegradable. It remains in soil, atmosphere, and water inducing multiple negative impacts on marine invertebrates (key species in trophic chain) disturbing ecological ecosystems. This review established our knowledge on lead accumulation and its effects on marine invertebrates (Annelida, Cnidaria, Crustacea, Echinodermata, and Mollusca). Lead may affect different stages of development from fertilization to larval development and can also lead to disturbance in reproduction and mortality. Furthermore, we discussed changes in the seawater chemistry due to Ocean Acidification, which can affect the solubility, speciation, and distribution of the lead, increasing potentially its toxicity to marine invertebrates.\n
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\n  \n 2021\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Organochlorine pesticide bioaccumulation in wild Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) fat tissues: Environmental influences on changing residue levels and contaminant profiles.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Humphries, M., S.; Myburgh, J., G.; Campbell, R.; Buah-Kwofie, A.; and Combrink, X.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Science of the Total Environment, 753. 1 2021.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"OrganochlorinePaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Organochlorine pesticide bioaccumulation in wild Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) fat tissues: Environmental influences on changing residue levels and contaminant profiles},\n type = {article},\n year = {2021},\n keywords = {Bioaccumulation,Biomonitoring,DDT,Ecotoxicology,Nile crocodile,Organochlorine pesticides},\n volume = {753},\n month = {1},\n publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},\n day = {20},\n id = {cd91be2f-9296-3acc-aeee-6e861614597e},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:09.374Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:55.899Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Biologically significant concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) continue to be reported in wildlife populations and are of particular concern in species that occupy the highest trophic levels. Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are important apex predators occurring throughout much of tropical and subtropical sub-Saharan Africa, where they inhabit estuarine and freshwater habitats often impacted by contamination. In this study we examined pesticide residue accumulation in fat tissue from Nile crocodiles at Lake St Lucia, South Africa, where historically large quantities of OCPs have been used for agriculture and disease control. During 2019, we collected tail fat samples from wild (n = 21) and captive (n = 3) individuals to examine the influence of habitat, body size and sex on variations in bioaccumulation. The principal contaminant found was p,p′-DDE, a major persistent metabolite of DDT, which continues to be used in the region for combating malaria. Tissue p,p′-DDE concentrations in wild crocodiles (95–1200 ng g−1 ww) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to captive individuals (23–68 ng g−1 ww) and strongly correlated (R2 > 0.70) to body length. Male (n = 14) and female (n = 7) wild crocodiles exhibited similar contaminant body burdens, however, total concentrations were substantially lower than those measured in the same population during 2016/2017. Marked differences in residue levels and profiles appear to reflect changes in food availability and dietary exposure associated with a shift in environmental conditions. These findings suggest that periods of environmental stress may be associated with enhanced toxicological risk in crocodiles. Additional work is needed to better understand contaminant accumulation and elimination mechanisms in crocodiles, and their potential effects on reproductive health.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Humphries, Marc S. and Myburgh, Jan G. and Campbell, Robert and Buah-Kwofie, Archibold and Combrink, Xander},\n doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142068},\n journal = {Science of the Total Environment}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Biologically significant concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) continue to be reported in wildlife populations and are of particular concern in species that occupy the highest trophic levels. Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are important apex predators occurring throughout much of tropical and subtropical sub-Saharan Africa, where they inhabit estuarine and freshwater habitats often impacted by contamination. In this study we examined pesticide residue accumulation in fat tissue from Nile crocodiles at Lake St Lucia, South Africa, where historically large quantities of OCPs have been used for agriculture and disease control. During 2019, we collected tail fat samples from wild (n = 21) and captive (n = 3) individuals to examine the influence of habitat, body size and sex on variations in bioaccumulation. The principal contaminant found was p,p′-DDE, a major persistent metabolite of DDT, which continues to be used in the region for combating malaria. Tissue p,p′-DDE concentrations in wild crocodiles (95–1200 ng g−1 ww) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to captive individuals (23–68 ng g−1 ww) and strongly correlated (R2 > 0.70) to body length. Male (n = 14) and female (n = 7) wild crocodiles exhibited similar contaminant body burdens, however, total concentrations were substantially lower than those measured in the same population during 2016/2017. Marked differences in residue levels and profiles appear to reflect changes in food availability and dietary exposure associated with a shift in environmental conditions. These findings suggest that periods of environmental stress may be associated with enhanced toxicological risk in crocodiles. Additional work is needed to better understand contaminant accumulation and elimination mechanisms in crocodiles, and their potential effects on reproductive health.\n
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\n  \n 2020\n \n \n (3)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dust and bullets: Stable isotopes and GPS tracking disentangle lead sources for a large avian scavenger.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Arrondo, E.; Navarro, J.; Perez-García, J., M.; Mateo, R.; Camarero, P., R.; Martin-Doimeadios, R., C.; Jiménez-Moreno, M.; Cortés-Avizanda, A.; Navas, I.; García-Fernández, A., J.; Sánchez-Zapata, J., A.; and Donázar, J., A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Pollution, 266. 11 2020.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"DustPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Dust and bullets: Stable isotopes and GPS tracking disentangle lead sources for a large avian scavenger},\n type = {article},\n year = {2020},\n keywords = {Ammunition,Ecotoxicology,GPS,Lead,Stable isotopes,Vultures},\n volume = {266},\n month = {11},\n publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},\n day = {1},\n id = {7d4fbc0a-db84-3d9c-95df-785239435575},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:11.877Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:58.013Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead intoxication is an important threat to human health and a large number of wildlife species. Animals are exposed to several sources of lead highlighting hunting ammunition and lead that is bioavailable in topsoil. Disentangling the role of each in lead exposure is an important conservation issue, particularly for species potentially affected by lead poisoning, such as vultures. The identification of lead sources in vultures and other species has been classically addressed by means of stable-isotope comparisons, but the extremely varied isotope signatures found in ammunition hinders this identification when it overlaps with topsoil signatures. In addition, assumptions related to the exposure of individual vultures to lead sources have been made without knowledge of the actual feeding grounds exploited by the birds. Here, we combine lead concentration analysis in blood, novel stable isotope approaches to assign the origin of the lead and GPS tracking data to investigate the main foraging grounds of two Iberian griffon vulture populations (N = 58) whose foraging ranges differ in terms of topsoil lead concentration and intensity of big game hunting activity. We found that the lead signature in vultures was closer to topsoil than to ammunition, but this similarity decreased significantly in the area with higher big game hunting activity. In addition, attending to the individual home ranges of the tracked birds, models accounting for the intensity of hunting activity better explained the higher blood lead concentration in vultures than topsoil exposure. In spite of that, our finding also show that lead exposure from topsoil is more important than previously thought.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Arrondo, Eneko and Navarro, Joan and Perez-García, Juan Manuel and Mateo, Rafael and Camarero, Pablo R. and Martin-Doimeadios, Rosa C.Rodríguez and Jiménez-Moreno, María and Cortés-Avizanda, Ainara and Navas, Isabel and García-Fernández, Antonio Juan and Sánchez-Zapata, José Antonio and Donázar, José Antonio},\n doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115022},\n journal = {Environmental Pollution}\n}
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\n\n\n
\n Lead intoxication is an important threat to human health and a large number of wildlife species. Animals are exposed to several sources of lead highlighting hunting ammunition and lead that is bioavailable in topsoil. Disentangling the role of each in lead exposure is an important conservation issue, particularly for species potentially affected by lead poisoning, such as vultures. The identification of lead sources in vultures and other species has been classically addressed by means of stable-isotope comparisons, but the extremely varied isotope signatures found in ammunition hinders this identification when it overlaps with topsoil signatures. In addition, assumptions related to the exposure of individual vultures to lead sources have been made without knowledge of the actual feeding grounds exploited by the birds. Here, we combine lead concentration analysis in blood, novel stable isotope approaches to assign the origin of the lead and GPS tracking data to investigate the main foraging grounds of two Iberian griffon vulture populations (N = 58) whose foraging ranges differ in terms of topsoil lead concentration and intensity of big game hunting activity. We found that the lead signature in vultures was closer to topsoil than to ammunition, but this similarity decreased significantly in the area with higher big game hunting activity. In addition, attending to the individual home ranges of the tracked birds, models accounting for the intensity of hunting activity better explained the higher blood lead concentration in vultures than topsoil exposure. In spite of that, our finding also show that lead exposure from topsoil is more important than previously thought.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Concentrations and relative compositions of metallic elements differ between predatory squid and filter-feeding sardine from the Indian and South Atlantic oceans.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Uren, R., C.; Van Der Lingen, C., D.; Kylin, H.; and Bouwman, H.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report 2020.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"ConcentrationsPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {Concentrations and relative compositions of metallic elements differ between predatory squid and filter-feeding sardine from the Indian and South Atlantic oceans},\n type = {techreport},\n year = {2020},\n keywords = {Indian Ocean,South Atlantic Ocean,cadmium,lead,mercury,muscle tissue},\n id = {12ba9be5-0e4a-3c27-b0c6-b7465dbe0949},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:26.157Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:06.575Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {• First assessment of metal concentrations in sardine and squid from South Africa • Concentrations differed between organisms from the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans • A number of metals occurred at higher concentrations in the predatory squid • 'Fingerprint' analyses indicate possible stock discrimination for sardine and squid • No mean concentrations exceeded recommended human intake limits Abstract Although metallic elements occur naturally, they can occur or accumulate in organisms at levels toxic to the organism and/or their consumers. Concentrations of twenty-nine metallic elements in muscle tissue from sardine Sardinops sagax and chokka squid Loligo reynaudii from South Atlantic and Indian Ocean waters off South Africa were established, for the first time, using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Chokka showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of B, Cr, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Cd, and Tl and significantly lower concentrations of V, Mn, Ti, and Mo compared to sardine. There were also significant differences in some metallic elements between the two oceans. Multivariate analyses indicated possible population structure of both species, suggesting that these analyses may be useful as a stock discrimination tool. Only two sardine samples contained quantifiable Hg. Based on South African estimated daily intake, total hazard quotient, and European Union limits for Hg, Cd, and Pb, we consider tissues from sardine and chokka in South African waters to be safe for human consumption. 3},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Uren, Ryan C and Van Der Lingen, Carl D and Kylin, Henrik and Bouwman, Hindrik}\n}
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\n • First assessment of metal concentrations in sardine and squid from South Africa • Concentrations differed between organisms from the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans • A number of metals occurred at higher concentrations in the predatory squid • 'Fingerprint' analyses indicate possible stock discrimination for sardine and squid • No mean concentrations exceeded recommended human intake limits Abstract Although metallic elements occur naturally, they can occur or accumulate in organisms at levels toxic to the organism and/or their consumers. Concentrations of twenty-nine metallic elements in muscle tissue from sardine Sardinops sagax and chokka squid Loligo reynaudii from South Atlantic and Indian Ocean waters off South Africa were established, for the first time, using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Chokka showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of B, Cr, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Cd, and Tl and significantly lower concentrations of V, Mn, Ti, and Mo compared to sardine. There were also significant differences in some metallic elements between the two oceans. Multivariate analyses indicated possible population structure of both species, suggesting that these analyses may be useful as a stock discrimination tool. Only two sardine samples contained quantifiable Hg. Based on South African estimated daily intake, total hazard quotient, and European Union limits for Hg, Cd, and Pb, we consider tissues from sardine and chokka in South African waters to be safe for human consumption. 3\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n South African Lead Exposure Prevention Strategy.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Department of Health\n\n\n \n\n\n\n . 2020.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"SouthPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {South African Lead Exposure Prevention Strategy},\n type = {article},\n year = {2020},\n id = {51b35d1c-2b1c-3e20-a2f3-b969440437e7},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:41.846Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:54:26.655Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Department of Health, undefined}\n}
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\n  \n 2019\n \n \n (3)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blood and bone lead levels in South Africa's Gyps vultures: Risk to nest-bound chicks and comparison with other avian taxa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n van den Heever, L.; Smit-Robinson, H.; Naidoo, V.; and McKechnie, A., E.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Science of the Total Environment, 669: 471-480. 6 2019.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"BloodPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Blood and bone lead levels in South Africa's Gyps vultures: Risk to nest-bound chicks and comparison with other avian taxa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2019},\n keywords = {Ammunition,Blood,Bone,Chick,Lead,Vulture},\n pages = {471-480},\n volume = {669},\n month = {6},\n publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},\n day = {15},\n id = {7098869b-bd64-32e4-914c-982406477912},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:09.959Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:56.340Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Poisoning, including secondary lead poisoning, is cited as the single most important cause of vulture mortalities in Africa. To evaluate the prevalence of lead poisoning among South Africa's Gyps vultures compared to other, non-scavenging birds, we obtained blood and bone samples from Cape (Gyps coprotheres) and White-backed (G. africanus) vultures. We found that 66% of White-backed Vultures (n = 110, including 85 nest-bound chicks sampled at Dronfield Nature Reserve) and 80% of Cape Vultures (n = 15) had blood [Pb] in excess of 10 μg/dL, the upper limit of background exposure. Average blood [Pb] were 15.4 μg/dL and 29.7 μg/dL for White-backed and Cape vultures, respectively. Bone samples revealed that 12% of White-backed Vultures (n = 18) and 9% of Cape Vultures (n = 75) suffered from subclinical to severe clinical lead poisoning upon their deaths. By contrast, none of the 40 blood, bone or liver samples obtained from non-scavenging bird species were found to exceed background exposure levels. Our results suggest that, unlike non-scavenging birds, the scavenging lifestyle of Gyps vultures subjects them to lead poisoning on a regular basis. Had environmental sources of lead (e.g., dust) been the source of the lead poisoning at the White-backed Vulture breeding colony at Dronfield, all the chicks would have displayed similar blood lead concentrations. Instead the values ranged from barely detectable to very high, leading us to conclude that metallic lead fragments regurgitated by parents during feeding are responsible for the elevated lead levels in some of the chicks at this site. We conclude the likely source of these particles to be fragments of lead ammunition embedded in the carcasses of hunted animals. These results add to a growing body of evidence underscoring the threat posed by the use of lead ammunition and its potential role in the declines of vultures and other scavenging taxa.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {van den Heever, Linda and Smit-Robinson, Hanneline and Naidoo, Vinny and McKechnie, Andrew E.},\n doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.03.123},\n journal = {Science of the Total Environment}\n}
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\n Poisoning, including secondary lead poisoning, is cited as the single most important cause of vulture mortalities in Africa. To evaluate the prevalence of lead poisoning among South Africa's Gyps vultures compared to other, non-scavenging birds, we obtained blood and bone samples from Cape (Gyps coprotheres) and White-backed (G. africanus) vultures. We found that 66% of White-backed Vultures (n = 110, including 85 nest-bound chicks sampled at Dronfield Nature Reserve) and 80% of Cape Vultures (n = 15) had blood [Pb] in excess of 10 μg/dL, the upper limit of background exposure. Average blood [Pb] were 15.4 μg/dL and 29.7 μg/dL for White-backed and Cape vultures, respectively. Bone samples revealed that 12% of White-backed Vultures (n = 18) and 9% of Cape Vultures (n = 75) suffered from subclinical to severe clinical lead poisoning upon their deaths. By contrast, none of the 40 blood, bone or liver samples obtained from non-scavenging bird species were found to exceed background exposure levels. Our results suggest that, unlike non-scavenging birds, the scavenging lifestyle of Gyps vultures subjects them to lead poisoning on a regular basis. Had environmental sources of lead (e.g., dust) been the source of the lead poisoning at the White-backed Vulture breeding colony at Dronfield, all the chicks would have displayed similar blood lead concentrations. Instead the values ranged from barely detectable to very high, leading us to conclude that metallic lead fragments regurgitated by parents during feeding are responsible for the elevated lead levels in some of the chicks at this site. We conclude the likely source of these particles to be fragments of lead ammunition embedded in the carcasses of hunted animals. These results add to a growing body of evidence underscoring the threat posed by the use of lead ammunition and its potential role in the declines of vultures and other scavenging taxa.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mercury, silver, selenium and other trace elements in three cyprinid fish species from the Vaal Dam, South Africa, including implications for fish consumers.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Plessl, C.; Gilbert, B., M.; Sigmund, M., F.; Theiner, S.; Avenant-Oldewage, A.; Keppler, B., K.; and Jirsa, F.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Science of the Total Environment, 659: 1158-1167. 4 2019.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"Mercury,Paper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Mercury, silver, selenium and other trace elements in three cyprinid fish species from the Vaal Dam, South Africa, including implications for fish consumers},\n type = {article},\n year = {2019},\n keywords = {Freshwater reservoir,Heavy metals,Labeo umbratus,Labeobarbus aeneus,Labeobarbus kimberleyensis,Se-HBV},\n pages = {1158-1167},\n volume = {659},\n month = {4},\n publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},\n day = {1},\n id = {a307f4d0-92ca-3ba8-a2de-e75cc74fadb1},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:17.442Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:01.544Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The levels of Cr, Cu, Zn, Se, Ag, Cd, Hg, and Pb were determined in muscle and liver samples from 30 specimens of fish belonging to the species Labeobarbus aeneus, Labeobarbus kimberleyensis, and Labeo umbratus from the Vaal Dam. Health risks for human fish consumers were estimated using the target hazard quotient (THQ), the Se:Hg-ratio, and Se health benefit value (Se HBV). This is the first comprehensive report on Hg levels in fish from this lake. Mean concentrations ranging from 0.247–0.481 mg/kg dw in muscle and from 0.170–0.363 mg/kg dw in liver clearly show a contamination with this element. Although levels in muscle did not exceed maximum allowances for human consumption, a calculated THQ of 0.12 and 0.14 for the two Labeobarbus species, respectively, showed a potential risk due to additive effects. All Se:Hg-ratios as well as Se HBVs clearly suggested positive effects for fish consumers. Levels of Cu were remarkably high in the liver of L. umbratus, calling for further investigation on this species. Cadmium levels were above the maximum allowances for fish consumption in the liver of all three species (means between 0.190 and 0.460 mg/kg dw), but below the LOD in all muscle and intestine samples. This is also the first report of Ag in fish from South Africa. Levels were below the LOD in muscle, but well detectable in liver; they varied significantly between the two Labeobarbus species (0.054 ± 0.030 and 0.037 ± 0.016 mg/kg dw) compared to L. umbratus (1.92 ± 0.83 mg/kg dw) and showed a positive correlation with Cu levels (63.7 ± 17.0; 70.3 ± 9.0 and 1300 ± 823 mg/kg dw), possibly due to similar chemical affinities to metallothioneins. The detected Ag levels can serve as a basis to monitor the development of this new pollutant in aquatic environments in South Africa and worldwide.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Plessl, Christof and Gilbert, Beric M. and Sigmund, Martin F. and Theiner, Sarah and Avenant-Oldewage, Annemariè and Keppler, Bernhard K. and Jirsa, Franz},\n doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.12.442},\n journal = {Science of the Total Environment}\n}
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\n The levels of Cr, Cu, Zn, Se, Ag, Cd, Hg, and Pb were determined in muscle and liver samples from 30 specimens of fish belonging to the species Labeobarbus aeneus, Labeobarbus kimberleyensis, and Labeo umbratus from the Vaal Dam. Health risks for human fish consumers were estimated using the target hazard quotient (THQ), the Se:Hg-ratio, and Se health benefit value (Se HBV). This is the first comprehensive report on Hg levels in fish from this lake. Mean concentrations ranging from 0.247–0.481 mg/kg dw in muscle and from 0.170–0.363 mg/kg dw in liver clearly show a contamination with this element. Although levels in muscle did not exceed maximum allowances for human consumption, a calculated THQ of 0.12 and 0.14 for the two Labeobarbus species, respectively, showed a potential risk due to additive effects. All Se:Hg-ratios as well as Se HBVs clearly suggested positive effects for fish consumers. Levels of Cu were remarkably high in the liver of L. umbratus, calling for further investigation on this species. Cadmium levels were above the maximum allowances for fish consumption in the liver of all three species (means between 0.190 and 0.460 mg/kg dw), but below the LOD in all muscle and intestine samples. This is also the first report of Ag in fish from South Africa. Levels were below the LOD in muscle, but well detectable in liver; they varied significantly between the two Labeobarbus species (0.054 ± 0.030 and 0.037 ± 0.016 mg/kg dw) compared to L. umbratus (1.92 ± 0.83 mg/kg dw) and showed a positive correlation with Cu levels (63.7 ± 17.0; 70.3 ± 9.0 and 1300 ± 823 mg/kg dw), possibly due to similar chemical affinities to metallothioneins. The detected Ag levels can serve as a basis to monitor the development of this new pollutant in aquatic environments in South Africa and worldwide.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n The transition to non-lead sporting ammunition and fishing weights: Review of progress and barriers to implementation.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Thomas, V., G.; Kanstrup, N.; and Fox, A., D.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n 9 2019.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"ThePaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@misc{\n title = {The transition to non-lead sporting ammunition and fishing weights: Review of progress and barriers to implementation},\n type = {misc},\n year = {2019},\n source = {Ambio},\n keywords = {Bullets,Effectiveness,Exposure,Regulations,Shot,Socio-politics},\n pages = {925-934},\n volume = {48},\n issue = {9},\n month = {9},\n publisher = {Springer Netherlands},\n day = {15},\n id = {c29e013f-cbcc-3cb9-a40b-df33415b77e1},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:21.405Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:04.778Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {This review presents evidence of lead exposure and toxicity to wildlife and humans from spent shotgun and rifle ammunition and fishing weights, and the barriers and bridges to completing the transition to non-lead products. Despite the international availability of effective non-lead substitutes, and that more jurisdictions are adopting suitable policies and regulations, a broader transition to non-lead alternatives is prevented because resolution remains divided among disparate human user constituencies. Progress has occurred only where evidence is most compelling or where a responsible public authority with statutory powers has managed to change mindsets in the wider public interest. Arguments opposing lead bans are shown to lack validity. Differing national regulations impede progress, requiring analysis to achieve better regulation. Evidence that lead bans have reduced wildlife exposure should be used more to promote sustainable hunting and fishing. Evidence of the lead contribution from hunted game to human exposure should shape policy and regulation to end lead ammunition use. The Special Issue presents evidence that a transition to non-lead products is both warranted and feasible.},\n bibtype = {misc},\n author = {Thomas, Vernon G. and Kanstrup, Niels and Fox, Anthony D.},\n doi = {10.1007/s13280-018-1132-x}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n This review presents evidence of lead exposure and toxicity to wildlife and humans from spent shotgun and rifle ammunition and fishing weights, and the barriers and bridges to completing the transition to non-lead products. Despite the international availability of effective non-lead substitutes, and that more jurisdictions are adopting suitable policies and regulations, a broader transition to non-lead alternatives is prevented because resolution remains divided among disparate human user constituencies. Progress has occurred only where evidence is most compelling or where a responsible public authority with statutory powers has managed to change mindsets in the wider public interest. Arguments opposing lead bans are shown to lack validity. Differing national regulations impede progress, requiring analysis to achieve better regulation. Evidence that lead bans have reduced wildlife exposure should be used more to promote sustainable hunting and fishing. Evidence of the lead contribution from hunted game to human exposure should shape policy and regulation to end lead ammunition use. The Special Issue presents evidence that a transition to non-lead products is both warranted and feasible.\n
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\n  \n 2018\n \n \n (4)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Association between hunting and elevated blood lead levels in the critically endangered African white-backed vulture Gyps africanus.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Garbett, R.; Maude, G.; Hancock, P.; Kenny, D.; Reading, R.; and Amar, A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Science of the Total Environment, 630: 1654-1665. 7 2018.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AssociationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Association between hunting and elevated blood lead levels in the critically endangered African white-backed vulture Gyps africanus},\n type = {article},\n year = {2018},\n keywords = {African vultures,Botswana,Hunting season,Pb bullets,Pb poisoning,Scavenging raptors},\n pages = {1654-1665},\n volume = {630},\n month = {7},\n publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},\n day = {15},\n id = {3dcf35e5-6263-335e-9d51-ccb41d5e7a12},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:10.530Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:56.725Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead (Pb) toxicity caused by the ingestion of Pb ammunition fragments in carcasses and offal is a threat to scavenging birds across the globe. African vultures are in critical decline, but research on whether Pb exposure is contributing to declines is lacking. In Africa, recreational hunting represents an important economic activity; however, Pb in leftover hunted carcasses and gut piles represents a dangerous food source for vultures. It is therefore important to establish whether recreational hunting is associated with Pb exposure in African vultures. We explored this issue for the critically endangered white-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) in Botswana by examining their blood Pb levels inside and outside of the hunting season, and inside and outside of private hunting areas. From 566 birds captured and tested, 30.2% birds showed elevated Pb levels (10 to <45 μg/dl) and 2.3% showed subclinical exposure (≥45 μg/dl). Higher blood Pb levels were associated with samples taken inside of the hunting season and from within hunting areas. Additionally, there was a significant interaction between hunting season and areas, with Pb levels declining more steeply between hunting and non-hunting seasons within hunting areas than outside them. Thus, all our results were consistent with the suggestion that elevated Pb levels in this critically endangered African vulture are associated with recreational hunting. Pb is known to be highly toxic to scavenging birds and we recommend that Pb ammunition in Botswana is phased out as soon as possible to help protect this rapidly declining group of birds.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Garbett, Rebecca and Maude, Glyn and Hancock, Pete and Kenny, David and Reading, Richard and Amar, Arjun},\n doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.02.220},\n journal = {Science of the Total Environment}\n}
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\n Lead (Pb) toxicity caused by the ingestion of Pb ammunition fragments in carcasses and offal is a threat to scavenging birds across the globe. African vultures are in critical decline, but research on whether Pb exposure is contributing to declines is lacking. In Africa, recreational hunting represents an important economic activity; however, Pb in leftover hunted carcasses and gut piles represents a dangerous food source for vultures. It is therefore important to establish whether recreational hunting is associated with Pb exposure in African vultures. We explored this issue for the critically endangered white-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) in Botswana by examining their blood Pb levels inside and outside of the hunting season, and inside and outside of private hunting areas. From 566 birds captured and tested, 30.2% birds showed elevated Pb levels (10 to <45 μg/dl) and 2.3% showed subclinical exposure (≥45 μg/dl). Higher blood Pb levels were associated with samples taken inside of the hunting season and from within hunting areas. Additionally, there was a significant interaction between hunting season and areas, with Pb levels declining more steeply between hunting and non-hunting seasons within hunting areas than outside them. Thus, all our results were consistent with the suggestion that elevated Pb levels in this critically endangered African vulture are associated with recreational hunting. Pb is known to be highly toxic to scavenging birds and we recommend that Pb ammunition in Botswana is phased out as soon as possible to help protect this rapidly declining group of birds.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accumulation of organochlorine pesticides in fat tissue of wild Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Buah-Kwofie, A.; Humphries, M., S.; Combrink, X.; and Myburgh, J., G.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Chemosphere, 195: 463-471. 3 2018.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AccumulationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Accumulation of organochlorine pesticides in fat tissue of wild Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2018},\n keywords = {DDT,Ecotoxicology,Nile crocodile,Organochlorine pesticides},\n pages = {463-471},\n volume = {195},\n month = {3},\n publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},\n day = {1},\n id = {f31fd260-93a8-31fb-adf3-c9a63a05a487},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:11.087Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:57.561Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are important apex predators in many tropical and subtropical aquatic habitats throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. In South Africa, large crocodile populations inhabit lakes and wetlands that are impacted by organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). Despite the continued use of these compounds and their potential adverse effects on key wildlife populations in southern Africa, limited ecotoxicoloigcal data exist. In this study, we examined the accumulation of OCPs in fat tissues of live, wild Nile crocodiles from iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a region of significant biological importance. All samples (n = 15) contained multiple contaminants in highly elevated concentrations, with total residue burdens varying between 3600 and 8000 ng g−1 ww. DDT and its metabolites were the dominant compounds detected in most samples, with ∑DDT concentrations ranging between 520 and 3100 ng g−1 ww. Elevated levels of other OCPs were also detected, including lindane (67–410 ng g−1 ww), aldrin (150–620 ng g−1 ww) and heptachlor (170–860 ng g−1 ww). Our findings show that crocodiles are exposed to OCPs throughout their range within iSimangaliso Wetland Park and contain some of the highest concentrations ever recorded in crocodilian tissue. Results indicate the need for a greater understanding of the impacts of OCP exposure and toxicological responses in crocodiles from iSimangaliso, and in Nile crocodile populations in general. The novel surgical technique described in this study provides an effective method for assessing relationships between contaminant body burdens and their potential reproductive and developmental consequences in crocodilians.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Buah-Kwofie, Archibold and Humphries, Marc S. and Combrink, Xander and Myburgh, Jan G.},\n doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.12.084},\n journal = {Chemosphere}\n}
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\n Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are important apex predators in many tropical and subtropical aquatic habitats throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. In South Africa, large crocodile populations inhabit lakes and wetlands that are impacted by organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). Despite the continued use of these compounds and their potential adverse effects on key wildlife populations in southern Africa, limited ecotoxicoloigcal data exist. In this study, we examined the accumulation of OCPs in fat tissues of live, wild Nile crocodiles from iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a region of significant biological importance. All samples (n = 15) contained multiple contaminants in highly elevated concentrations, with total residue burdens varying between 3600 and 8000 ng g−1 ww. DDT and its metabolites were the dominant compounds detected in most samples, with ∑DDT concentrations ranging between 520 and 3100 ng g−1 ww. Elevated levels of other OCPs were also detected, including lindane (67–410 ng g−1 ww), aldrin (150–620 ng g−1 ww) and heptachlor (170–860 ng g−1 ww). Our findings show that crocodiles are exposed to OCPs throughout their range within iSimangaliso Wetland Park and contain some of the highest concentrations ever recorded in crocodilian tissue. Results indicate the need for a greater understanding of the impacts of OCP exposure and toxicological responses in crocodiles from iSimangaliso, and in Nile crocodile populations in general. The novel surgical technique described in this study provides an effective method for assessing relationships between contaminant body burdens and their potential reproductive and developmental consequences in crocodilians.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n LEAD EXPOSURE IN THE CRITICALLY ENDANGERED BEARDED VULTURE (GYPAETUS BARBATUS) POPULATION IN SOUTHERN AFRICA.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Kruger, S., C.; and Amar, A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n J. Raptor Res, 52(4): 491-499. 2018.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LEADPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {LEAD EXPOSURE IN THE CRITICALLY ENDANGERED BEARDED VULTURE (GYPAETUS BARBATUS) POPULATION IN SOUTHERN AFRICA},\n type = {article},\n year = {2018},\n keywords = {Africa,Bearded Vulture,Gypaetus barbatus,ammunition,lead poisoning,population,threat},\n pages = {491-499},\n volume = {52},\n id = {2c8b2fb7-dcae-3b4d-b7f4-56f36d148131},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:29.194Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:04:40.905Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead poisoning is an important threat to some raptor species, and the primary source of lead is through the ingestion of carcasses that have been shot with lead, which makes scavengers such as vultures particularly vulnerable. We examined the concentrations of lead in blood and bone tissue samples collected throughout the range of the Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) in southern Africa. This population is regionally critically endangered and it is not known to what extent lead poisoning may be a threat. Blood lead levels (0.62 6 0.81 lg dL À1) from six live birds tested in 2017 indicated background levels of exposure to lead. Similarly, five live birds tested in 2009 using a less sensitive method all had blood lead levels ,3 lg dL À1. Bone lead levels (11.79 6 8.34 lg g À1) from eight birds that had died indicated lead exposure and accumulation over time, suggesting that lead may have contributed to their deaths. These levels of lead may be detrimental to the survival and fecundity of this small and declining population. Recommendations to address this threat include banning hunting and culling with lead ammunition, which is the most likely source of this pollutant. Such actions may reduce the population's susceptibility to other threats, which may be compounded by high lead levels, and help ensure the success of planned reintroduction programs. EXPOSICI´ONEXPOSICI´ EXPOSICI´ON AL PLOMO EN POBLACIONES EN PELIGRO CR´ITICOCR´CR´ITICO DE GYPAETUS BARBATUS EN EL SUR DÉ AFRICA RESUMEN.-El envenenamiento por plomo es una amenaza importante para algunas especies de rapaces. La fuente principal de plomo es la ingesta de cadáveres que han sido abatidos con plomo, lo que hace que los carroñeros como los buitres sean particularmente vulnerables. Examinamos las concentraciones de plomo en muestras de sangre y tejido o ´ seo recolectadas a lo largo del a ´rea de distribución de Gypaetus barbatus en el sur dé Africa. Esta població n está en peligro crítico a nivel regional y no se sabe en qué medida el envenenamiento por plomo puede ser una amenaza. Los niveles de plomo en sangre (0.62 6 0.81 lg dL À1) en seis aves vivas evaluadas en 2017 indicaron niveles de fondo de exposició n al plomo. De modo similar, cinco aves vivas evaluadas en 2009 usando un método menos sensible mostraron en todas ellas niveles de plomo en sangre ,3 lg dL À1. Los niveles de plomo en tejido o ´ seo (11.79 6 8.34 lg g À1) de ocho aves muertas indicaron exposició n al plomo y acumulación a lo largo del tiempo, sugiriendo que el plomo puede haber contribuido a sus muertes. Estos niveles de plomo pueden ser perjudiciales para la supervivencia y la fecundidad de esta pequeña població n en disminución. Las recomendaciones para abordar esta amenaza incluyen la prohibició n de caza y sacrificio con munición de plomo, la que representa la fuente más probable de este contaminante. Tales acciones pueden reducir la susceptibilidad 1},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Kruger, Sonja C and Amar, Arjun},\n journal = {J. Raptor Res},\n number = {4}\n}
\n
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\n Lead poisoning is an important threat to some raptor species, and the primary source of lead is through the ingestion of carcasses that have been shot with lead, which makes scavengers such as vultures particularly vulnerable. We examined the concentrations of lead in blood and bone tissue samples collected throughout the range of the Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) in southern Africa. This population is regionally critically endangered and it is not known to what extent lead poisoning may be a threat. Blood lead levels (0.62 6 0.81 lg dL À1) from six live birds tested in 2017 indicated background levels of exposure to lead. Similarly, five live birds tested in 2009 using a less sensitive method all had blood lead levels ,3 lg dL À1. Bone lead levels (11.79 6 8.34 lg g À1) from eight birds that had died indicated lead exposure and accumulation over time, suggesting that lead may have contributed to their deaths. These levels of lead may be detrimental to the survival and fecundity of this small and declining population. Recommendations to address this threat include banning hunting and culling with lead ammunition, which is the most likely source of this pollutant. Such actions may reduce the population's susceptibility to other threats, which may be compounded by high lead levels, and help ensure the success of planned reintroduction programs. EXPOSICI´ONEXPOSICI´ EXPOSICI´ON AL PLOMO EN POBLACIONES EN PELIGRO CR´ITICOCR´CR´ITICO DE GYPAETUS BARBATUS EN EL SUR DÉ AFRICA RESUMEN.-El envenenamiento por plomo es una amenaza importante para algunas especies de rapaces. La fuente principal de plomo es la ingesta de cadáveres que han sido abatidos con plomo, lo que hace que los carroñeros como los buitres sean particularmente vulnerables. Examinamos las concentraciones de plomo en muestras de sangre y tejido o ´ seo recolectadas a lo largo del a ´rea de distribución de Gypaetus barbatus en el sur dé Africa. Esta població n está en peligro crítico a nivel regional y no se sabe en qué medida el envenenamiento por plomo puede ser una amenaza. Los niveles de plomo en sangre (0.62 6 0.81 lg dL À1) en seis aves vivas evaluadas en 2017 indicaron niveles de fondo de exposició n al plomo. De modo similar, cinco aves vivas evaluadas en 2009 usando un método menos sensible mostraron en todas ellas niveles de plomo en sangre ,3 lg dL À1. Los niveles de plomo en tejido o ´ seo (11.79 6 8.34 lg g À1) de ocho aves muertas indicaron exposició n al plomo y acumulación a lo largo del tiempo, sugiriendo que el plomo puede haber contribuido a sus muertes. Estos niveles de plomo pueden ser perjudiciales para la supervivencia y la fecundidad de esta pequeña població n en disminución. Las recomendaciones para abordar esta amenaza incluyen la prohibició n de caza y sacrificio con munición de plomo, la que representa la fuente más probable de este contaminante. Tales acciones pueden reducir la susceptibilidad 1\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Trace metal enrichment observed in soils around a coal fired power plant in South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Dalton, A.; Feig, G., T.; and Barber, K.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Clean Air Journal, 28(2): 1-9. 2018.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"TracePaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Trace metal enrichment observed in soils around a coal fired power plant in South Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2018},\n keywords = {Coal fired power plant,Soil pollution,Trace metals},\n pages = {1-9},\n volume = {28},\n publisher = {National Association of Clean Air},\n id = {e07aadd7-adcf-3c59-b87e-ba2bf57be96e},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:47.857Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:21.857Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {A site assessment was conducted at a coal fired power plant in South Africa to determine whether surrounding soils were being enriched with trace metals resulting from activities at the power plant. It was found that deposition of fly ash from the flue stacks and the ash dump along with deposition of coal dust from the coal stock yard were the activities most likely to lead to such enrichment. Eighty topsoil samples were gathered and analysed for total metal content. Results were interpreted within the context of background values. It was found that concentrations of As, Cu, Mn, Ni and Pb exceeded local screening levels, but only As and Pb could be confidently attributed to anthropogenic intervention and actual enrichment.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Dalton, Amaris and Feig, Gregor T. and Barber, Kaylin},\n doi = {10.17159/2410-972X/2018/v28n2a1},\n journal = {Clean Air Journal},\n number = {2}\n}
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\n A site assessment was conducted at a coal fired power plant in South Africa to determine whether surrounding soils were being enriched with trace metals resulting from activities at the power plant. It was found that deposition of fly ash from the flue stacks and the ash dump along with deposition of coal dust from the coal stock yard were the activities most likely to lead to such enrichment. Eighty topsoil samples were gathered and analysed for total metal content. Results were interpreted within the context of background values. It was found that concentrations of As, Cu, Mn, Ni and Pb exceeded local screening levels, but only As and Pb could be confidently attributed to anthropogenic intervention and actual enrichment.\n
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\n  \n 2017\n \n \n (2)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead ingestion as a potential contributing factor to the decline in vulture populations in southern Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Naidoo, V.; Wolter, K.; and Botha, C., J.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Research, 152: 150-156. 1 2017.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Lead ingestion as a potential contributing factor to the decline in vulture populations in southern Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2017},\n keywords = {African White-backed vulture,Bearded vulture,Griffon vulture,Lead toxicity,Southern Africa,Whole blood},\n pages = {150-156},\n volume = {152},\n month = {1},\n publisher = {Academic Press Inc.},\n day = {1},\n id = {aa84b113-6c0a-3582-b7b4-9b2bbbad733d},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:20.100Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:03.739Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Vulture populations in southern Africa have been on the decline for years, which unlike the Asian vulture crisis, has no one specific cause. Reasons attributable are deliberate and secondary poisonings, drowning, power line injuries, electrocutions, traditional medicine (“muti” trade) and calcium deficiencies. However, lead toxicity as a potential causal factor is hardly mentioned. The potential for lead toxicity needs to be considered as substantial game hunting occurs in the region with little regulatory control on bullet types. In this study, we determined the whole blood lead concentrations of captive and wild vulture populations in South Africa and Namibia (n=185). Results were compared to previous published ranges indicative of background exposure (<10 μg/dL), non-toxic point exposure based upon the range established from captive birds and subclinical exposure. In general, whole blood lead concentrations were higher for wild African White-backed vultures (Gyps africanus)(AWBV) than Cape vultures (G. coprotheres)(CGV) at 15.54±12.63 μg/dL vs 12.53±8.88 μg/dL (non-significantly different), while in the Bearded vultures (Gypaetus barbatus) no indication of exposure was evident. Very similar exposures resulted irrespective of the birds being in captivity or under wild, free-roaming conditions. A proportion of wild birds did, however, appear to be exposed to another source of lead than purely environmental (±12% and 30.6% for AWBV and CGV respectively). One bird, which had a whole blood concentration of 100 μg/dL, died soon after capture. To find the relationship between whole blood lead concentration and likely exposure factors, birds were compared by their rural/urban location, vicinity to mines and surrounding soil lead concentrations. With no relationship being present for the latter factors, we believe that this is evidence that the portion of southern African vultures being exposed to unknown source of lead, which we suggest arises from leaded ammunition remaining from hunting},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Naidoo, V. and Wolter, K. and Botha, C. J.},\n doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2016.10.013},\n journal = {Environmental Research}\n}
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\n\n\n
\n Vulture populations in southern Africa have been on the decline for years, which unlike the Asian vulture crisis, has no one specific cause. Reasons attributable are deliberate and secondary poisonings, drowning, power line injuries, electrocutions, traditional medicine (“muti” trade) and calcium deficiencies. However, lead toxicity as a potential causal factor is hardly mentioned. The potential for lead toxicity needs to be considered as substantial game hunting occurs in the region with little regulatory control on bullet types. In this study, we determined the whole blood lead concentrations of captive and wild vulture populations in South Africa and Namibia (n=185). Results were compared to previous published ranges indicative of background exposure (<10 μg/dL), non-toxic point exposure based upon the range established from captive birds and subclinical exposure. In general, whole blood lead concentrations were higher for wild African White-backed vultures (Gyps africanus)(AWBV) than Cape vultures (G. coprotheres)(CGV) at 15.54±12.63 μg/dL vs 12.53±8.88 μg/dL (non-significantly different), while in the Bearded vultures (Gypaetus barbatus) no indication of exposure was evident. Very similar exposures resulted irrespective of the birds being in captivity or under wild, free-roaming conditions. A proportion of wild birds did, however, appear to be exposed to another source of lead than purely environmental (±12% and 30.6% for AWBV and CGV respectively). One bird, which had a whole blood concentration of 100 μg/dL, died soon after capture. To find the relationship between whole blood lead concentration and likely exposure factors, birds were compared by their rural/urban location, vicinity to mines and surrounding soil lead concentrations. With no relationship being present for the latter factors, we believe that this is evidence that the portion of southern African vultures being exposed to unknown source of lead, which we suggest arises from leaded ammunition remaining from hunting\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Assessment of heavy metals in excreta of house crow (Corvus splendens) from different Agroecosystems of Ludhiana.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Sharma, C.; and Vashishat, N.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n ~ 1891 ~ Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies, 5(4): 1891-1895. 2017.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AssessmentPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Assessment of heavy metals in excreta of house crow (Corvus splendens) from different Agroecosystems of Ludhiana},\n type = {article},\n year = {2017},\n keywords = {House Crow,agrifield,excreta,heavy metal,pollution},\n pages = {1891-1895},\n volume = {5},\n id = {815d9f88-2aa6-3100-92c2-c477eff3596d},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:31.307Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:10.131Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The aim of the study was to determine the difference in level of heavy metals in excreta of the House Crow (Corvus splendens) from agrifield and residential areas of Ludhiana city. The dry feacal samples were collected from four different crop field and three different residential areas which further comprised of different habitat structures. The lowest concentration of arsenic was recorded in samples of site I (1.38 ± 0.38 ppm) which comprised of orchard area and different trees. Maximum concentration was recorded at site V (4.04 ± 0.20 ppm) which comprised of garden surrounded by residential area. The minimum concentration of boron was recorded at the site VII (6.74 ± 1.03 ppm) which comprised of residential area and maximum concentration was recorded at site II (12.67 ± 1.97 ppm) which comprised of orchard area and vegetable farms having different crops. The minimum concentration of cadmium was recorded on the site I (0.393 ± 0.106 ppm) and maximum concentration was recorded at site V (1.05 ± 0.08 ppm). The minimum concentration of lead was recorded at site VII (2.59 ± 0.57 ppm) which comprised residential area and maximum concentration was recorded at site III (10.17 ± 0.94 ppm) which comprised of eucalyptus trees and different crop fields. The difference in levels of heavy metals in excreta samples from different areas attributed to the availability of different food sources and habitat structure. The reported concentrations of different heavy metals in bird excreta reflects their exposure to metal pollution which is alarming to increased environmental pollution.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Sharma, Chandan and Vashishat, Nisha},\n journal = {~ 1891 ~ Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies},\n number = {4}\n}
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\n The aim of the study was to determine the difference in level of heavy metals in excreta of the House Crow (Corvus splendens) from agrifield and residential areas of Ludhiana city. The dry feacal samples were collected from four different crop field and three different residential areas which further comprised of different habitat structures. The lowest concentration of arsenic was recorded in samples of site I (1.38 ± 0.38 ppm) which comprised of orchard area and different trees. Maximum concentration was recorded at site V (4.04 ± 0.20 ppm) which comprised of garden surrounded by residential area. The minimum concentration of boron was recorded at the site VII (6.74 ± 1.03 ppm) which comprised of residential area and maximum concentration was recorded at site II (12.67 ± 1.97 ppm) which comprised of orchard area and vegetable farms having different crops. The minimum concentration of cadmium was recorded on the site I (0.393 ± 0.106 ppm) and maximum concentration was recorded at site V (1.05 ± 0.08 ppm). The minimum concentration of lead was recorded at site VII (2.59 ± 0.57 ppm) which comprised residential area and maximum concentration was recorded at site III (10.17 ± 0.94 ppm) which comprised of eucalyptus trees and different crop fields. The difference in levels of heavy metals in excreta samples from different areas attributed to the availability of different food sources and habitat structure. The reported concentrations of different heavy metals in bird excreta reflects their exposure to metal pollution which is alarming to increased environmental pollution.\n
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\n  \n 2016\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blood lead concentrations in free-ranging Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Warner, J., K.; Combrink, X.; Myburgh, J., G.; and Downs, C., T.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Ecotoxicology, 25(5): 950-958. 7 2016.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"BloodPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Blood lead concentrations in free-ranging Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from South Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2016},\n keywords = {Crocodile,Crocodylus,Ecotoxicology,Heavy metal,Lead,South Africa},\n pages = {950-958},\n volume = {25},\n month = {7},\n publisher = {Springer New York LLC},\n day = {1},\n id = {bf739dc7-1a2e-3381-89cd-e8f9d599fb2b},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:18.036Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:55:15.311Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Generally crocodilians have received little attention with regard to the effects of lead toxicity despite their trophic status as apex, generalist predators that utilize both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, thereby exposing them to a potentially wide range of environmental contaminants. During July–October 2010 we collected whole blood from 34 sub-adult and adult free-ranging Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from three separate populations in northeastern South Africa in order to analyze their blood lead concentrations (BPb). Concentrations ranged from below detectability (<3 μg/dL, n = 8) to 960 μg/dL for an adult male at the Lake St Lucia Estuary. Blood lead concentrations averaged 8.15 μg/dL (SD = 7.47) for females and 98.10 μg/dL (SD = 217.42) for males. Eighteen individuals (53 %) had elevated BPbs (≥10 μg/dL). We assessed 12 general linear models using Akaike’s Information Criterion (AIC) and found no significant statistical effects among the parameters of sex, crocodile size and population sampled. On average, crocodiles had higher BPbs at Lake St Lucia than at Ndumo Game Reserve or Kosi Bay, which we attribute to lead sinker ingestion during normal gastrolith acquisition. No clinical effects of lead toxicosis were observed in these crocodiles, even though the highest concentration (960 μg/dL) we report represents the most elevated BPb recorded to date for a free-ranging vertebrate. Although we suggest adult Nile crocodiles are likely tolerant of elevated Pb body burdens, experimental studies on other crocodilian species suggest the BPb levels reported here may have harmful or fatal effects to egg development and hatchling health. In light of recent Nile crocodile nesting declines in South Africa we urge further BPb monitoring and ecotoxicology research on reproductive females and embryos.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Warner, Jonathan K. and Combrink, Xander and Myburgh, Jan G. and Downs, Colleen T.},\n doi = {10.1007/s10646-016-1652-8},\n journal = {Ecotoxicology},\n number = {5}\n}
\n
\n\n\n
\n Generally crocodilians have received little attention with regard to the effects of lead toxicity despite their trophic status as apex, generalist predators that utilize both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, thereby exposing them to a potentially wide range of environmental contaminants. During July–October 2010 we collected whole blood from 34 sub-adult and adult free-ranging Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from three separate populations in northeastern South Africa in order to analyze their blood lead concentrations (BPb). Concentrations ranged from below detectability (<3 μg/dL, n = 8) to 960 μg/dL for an adult male at the Lake St Lucia Estuary. Blood lead concentrations averaged 8.15 μg/dL (SD = 7.47) for females and 98.10 μg/dL (SD = 217.42) for males. Eighteen individuals (53 %) had elevated BPbs (≥10 μg/dL). We assessed 12 general linear models using Akaike’s Information Criterion (AIC) and found no significant statistical effects among the parameters of sex, crocodile size and population sampled. On average, crocodiles had higher BPbs at Lake St Lucia than at Ndumo Game Reserve or Kosi Bay, which we attribute to lead sinker ingestion during normal gastrolith acquisition. No clinical effects of lead toxicosis were observed in these crocodiles, even though the highest concentration (960 μg/dL) we report represents the most elevated BPb recorded to date for a free-ranging vertebrate. Although we suggest adult Nile crocodiles are likely tolerant of elevated Pb body burdens, experimental studies on other crocodilian species suggest the BPb levels reported here may have harmful or fatal effects to egg development and hatchling health. In light of recent Nile crocodile nesting declines in South Africa we urge further BPb monitoring and ecotoxicology research on reproductive females and embryos.\n
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\n  \n 2015\n \n \n (7)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Morphometrics, ecotoxicology and stable isotope ecology of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Warner, J., K.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Ph.D. Thesis, 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"Morphometrics,Paper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@phdthesis{\n title = {Morphometrics, ecotoxicology and stable isotope ecology of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa},\n type = {phdthesis},\n year = {2015},\n city = {Pietermaritzburg},\n institution = {University of KwaZulu-Natal},\n id = {fa0f4c06-78b2-3205-a901-a270e9b90ec3},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:07.625Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:28:07.389Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n user_context = {PhD Thesis},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {phdthesis},\n author = {Warner, Jonathan K}\n}
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n VIGILANCE POISON: Illegal poisoning and lead intoxication are the main factors affecting avian scavenger survival in the Pyrenees (France).\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Berny, P.; Vilagines, L.; Cugnasse, J., M.; Mastain, O.; Chollet, J., Y.; Joncour, G.; and Razin, M.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 118: 71-82. 8 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"VIGILANCEPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {VIGILANCE POISON: Illegal poisoning and lead intoxication are the main factors affecting avian scavenger survival in the Pyrenees (France)},\n type = {article},\n year = {2015},\n keywords = {Birds of prey,Conservation,Lead poisoning,Pesticide,Red kite,Vulture},\n pages = {71-82},\n volume = {118},\n month = {8},\n publisher = {Academic Press},\n day = {1},\n id = {43dc79f4-7960-3d5f-84b4-3daa65e81af5},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:16.745Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:01.084Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {A specific surveillance program has been set up to monitor avian scavenger populations in the French Pyrenean Mountains, hosting a high proportion of the French populations. The two main purposes of the study were to identify all causes of death and to investigate poisoning cases. All 170 birds found dead during the 7-year program were submitted to full necropsy, X-Ray, parasitological investigations and consistent analytical toxicology screenings (Cholinesterase inhibitors, anticoagulant rodenticides, organochlorine insecticides, Pb, Cd). Over the study period, 8 Bearded Vultures, 120 Griffon Vultures, 8 Egyptian Vultures and 34 Red kites were eventually collected. Mortality events were often multifactorial, but poisoning was by far the most common cause of death (24.1%), followed by trauma/fall (12%), bacterial diseases and starvation (8%) and electrocution (6%). Illicit use of banned pesticides was identified as a common cause of poisoning (53% of all poisoning cases) and lead poisoning was also identified as a significant toxicant issue (17% of all poisoning cases). Lead isotopic signature could be associated primarily with ammunition. Last, a positive association between trauma and lead contamination was detected, indicating that lead could be a significant contributor to different causes of death. These results urge for severe restrictions on the use of lead ammunition to prevent scavengers from detrimental exposure.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Berny, Philippe and Vilagines, Lydia and Cugnasse, Jean Marc and Mastain, Olivier and Chollet, Jean Yves and Joncour, Guy and Razin, Martine},\n doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2015.04.003},\n journal = {Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety}\n}
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\n\n\n
\n A specific surveillance program has been set up to monitor avian scavenger populations in the French Pyrenean Mountains, hosting a high proportion of the French populations. The two main purposes of the study were to identify all causes of death and to investigate poisoning cases. All 170 birds found dead during the 7-year program were submitted to full necropsy, X-Ray, parasitological investigations and consistent analytical toxicology screenings (Cholinesterase inhibitors, anticoagulant rodenticides, organochlorine insecticides, Pb, Cd). Over the study period, 8 Bearded Vultures, 120 Griffon Vultures, 8 Egyptian Vultures and 34 Red kites were eventually collected. Mortality events were often multifactorial, but poisoning was by far the most common cause of death (24.1%), followed by trauma/fall (12%), bacterial diseases and starvation (8%) and electrocution (6%). Illicit use of banned pesticides was identified as a common cause of poisoning (53% of all poisoning cases) and lead poisoning was also identified as a significant toxicant issue (17% of all poisoning cases). Lead isotopic signature could be associated primarily with ammunition. Last, a positive association between trauma and lead contamination was detected, indicating that lead could be a significant contributor to different causes of death. These results urge for severe restrictions on the use of lead ammunition to prevent scavengers from detrimental exposure.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Altered immune response in mallard ducklings exposed to lead through maternal transfer in the wild.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Vallverdú-Coll, N.; López-Antia, A.; Martinez-Haro, M.; Ortiz-Santaliestra, M., E.; and Mateo, R.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Pollution, 205: 350-356. 6 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AlteredPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Altered immune response in mallard ducklings exposed to lead through maternal transfer in the wild},\n type = {article},\n year = {2015},\n keywords = {Developmental toxicity,Immune response,Maternal transfer,Oxidative stress,Pb poisoning,Waterfowl},\n pages = {350-356},\n volume = {205},\n month = {6},\n publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},\n day = {29},\n id = {95dd4cbf-7ce6-3e5e-97a4-8e4da75dbff0},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:26.950Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:07.059Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Lead (Pb) poisoning has caused significant mortality in waterfowl populations worldwide. In spite of having been banned since 2003, prevalence of Pb shot ingestion in mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) from the Ebro delta was still 15.5% in 2011-12. We collected mallard eggs from this area to study the effects of maternally transferred Pb on eggshell properties and on immune response and oxidative balance of ducklings. Eggshell Pb levels were positively correlated with Pb levels in the blood of ducklings. Ducklings with blood Pb levels above 180 ng mL<sup>-1</sup> showed reduced body mass and died during the first week post hatching. Blood Pb levels positively correlated with humoral immune response, endogenous antioxidants and oxidative stress biomarkers, and negatively correlated with cellular immune response. Pb shot ingestion in birds can result in maternal transfer to the offspring that can affect their developing immune system and reduce their survival in early life stages.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Vallverdú-Coll, Núria and López-Antia, Ana and Martinez-Haro, Monica and Ortiz-Santaliestra, Manuel E. and Mateo, Rafael},\n doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2015.06.014},\n journal = {Environmental Pollution}\n}
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\n Lead (Pb) poisoning has caused significant mortality in waterfowl populations worldwide. In spite of having been banned since 2003, prevalence of Pb shot ingestion in mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) from the Ebro delta was still 15.5% in 2011-12. We collected mallard eggs from this area to study the effects of maternally transferred Pb on eggshell properties and on immune response and oxidative balance of ducklings. Eggshell Pb levels were positively correlated with Pb levels in the blood of ducklings. Ducklings with blood Pb levels above 180 ng mL-1 showed reduced body mass and died during the first week post hatching. Blood Pb levels positively correlated with humoral immune response, endogenous antioxidants and oxidative stress biomarkers, and negatively correlated with cellular immune response. Pb shot ingestion in birds can result in maternal transfer to the offspring that can affect their developing immune system and reduce their survival in early life stages.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Trace elements in mediterranean mussels mytilus galloprovincialis from the South African west coast.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Bezuidenhout, J.; Dames, N.; Botha, A.; Frontasyeva, M., V.; Goryainova, Z., I.; and Pavlov, D.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Ecological Chemistry and Engineering S, 22(4): 489-498. 12 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"TracePaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Trace elements in mediterranean mussels mytilus galloprovincialis from the South African west coast},\n type = {article},\n year = {2015},\n keywords = {Inductivity Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry,Mytilus galloprovincialis,Neutron Activation Analyses,Saldanha Bay area,biomonitoring,bivalve molluscs,heavy metals,trace elements},\n pages = {489-498},\n volume = {22},\n month = {12},\n publisher = {De Gruyter Open Ltd},\n day = {1},\n id = {ab25f6d8-9a8a-3d7b-ab7d-66290550e917},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:27.843Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:07.769Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Invasive bivalve molluscs, Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were used as sentinel biomonitors of pollution by inorganic contaminants in Saldanha Bay and the Langebaan Lagoon area of South Africa. Two complementary analytical techniques, ICP-MS and NAA, allowed for determination of concentrations of 31 major and trace elements including heavy metals and arsenic in the soft tissues of the mussels. Distinct seasonal patterns were found in the dynamics of these concentrations, with the mussels accumulating much more trace elements in winter than in the summer. In general, the mussels that grew naturally also demonstrated higher concentrations of As, Cd, Fe, Hg and Zn than those that were farmed. Fe showed the highest levels with a maximum concentration of 444 mg/kg followed by Zn with a maximum of 228 mg/kg. The concentrations of Mn and Pb were significantly higher in the Port of Saldanha close to the jetty where ores containing these metals are loaded in comparison with the other sampling sites. It was concluded that bivalve molluscs present themselves as effective biomonitors when assessing marine aquatic pollution by inorganic contaminants in the Saldanha Bay region.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Bezuidenhout, Jacques and Dames, Nicole and Botha, Alfred and Frontasyeva, Marina V. and Goryainova, Zoya I. and Pavlov, Dmitry},\n doi = {10.1515/eces-2015-0028},\n journal = {Ecological Chemistry and Engineering S},\n number = {4}\n}
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\n Invasive bivalve molluscs, Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were used as sentinel biomonitors of pollution by inorganic contaminants in Saldanha Bay and the Langebaan Lagoon area of South Africa. Two complementary analytical techniques, ICP-MS and NAA, allowed for determination of concentrations of 31 major and trace elements including heavy metals and arsenic in the soft tissues of the mussels. Distinct seasonal patterns were found in the dynamics of these concentrations, with the mussels accumulating much more trace elements in winter than in the summer. In general, the mussels that grew naturally also demonstrated higher concentrations of As, Cd, Fe, Hg and Zn than those that were farmed. Fe showed the highest levels with a maximum concentration of 444 mg/kg followed by Zn with a maximum of 228 mg/kg. The concentrations of Mn and Pb were significantly higher in the Port of Saldanha close to the jetty where ores containing these metals are loaded in comparison with the other sampling sites. It was concluded that bivalve molluscs present themselves as effective biomonitors when assessing marine aquatic pollution by inorganic contaminants in the Saldanha Bay region.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead Toxicosis in a Southern Ground Hornbill Bucorvus leadbeateri in South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Koeppel, K., N.; Vet, M.; Med, C., Z.; and Kemp, L., V.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {Lead Toxicosis in a Southern Ground Hornbill Bucorvus leadbeateri in South Africa},\n type = {techreport},\n year = {2015},\n source = {Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery},\n keywords = {Bucorvus leadbeateri,South Africa,avian,endangered species,lead,southern ground hornbill,toxicosis},\n pages = {340-344},\n volume = {29},\n issue = {4},\n id = {69686f56-b81a-33ab-aa5d-1e37e4e1ac16},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:30.497Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:09.712Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) has been classified as globally vulnerable and, in South Africa, regionally endangered, with a negative population trend. Factors contributing to the population decline in South Africa are poisoning, electrocution, and illegal capture for trade, coupled with slow reproductive rates and extensive habitat requirements. Lead toxicosis is a previously undescribed threat for the population. An adult southern ground hornbill presented with acute lead toxicosis due to lead particles in the gizzard, which required intensive treatment. Two other hornbills were likely exposed. The source of the lead in these cases was likely a carcass of a porcupine that was killed with lead shot. This report highlights the importance of the use of lead-free ammunition within the habitat of the southern ground hornbill in South Africa.},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Koeppel, Katja N and Vet, Med and Med, Cert Zoo and Kemp, Lucy V}\n}
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\n The southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) has been classified as globally vulnerable and, in South Africa, regionally endangered, with a negative population trend. Factors contributing to the population decline in South Africa are poisoning, electrocution, and illegal capture for trade, coupled with slow reproductive rates and extensive habitat requirements. Lead toxicosis is a previously undescribed threat for the population. An adult southern ground hornbill presented with acute lead toxicosis due to lead particles in the gizzard, which required intensive treatment. Two other hornbills were likely exposed. The source of the lead in these cases was likely a carcass of a porcupine that was killed with lead shot. This report highlights the importance of the use of lead-free ammunition within the habitat of the southern ground hornbill in South Africa.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blood lead levels in White-Backed Vultures (Gyps africanus) from Botswana, Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Kenny, D.; Reading, R.; Maude, G.; Hancock, P.; and Garbett, B.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Vulture News, 68(1): 25. 11 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"BloodPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Blood lead levels in White-Backed Vultures (<i>Gyps africanus</i>) from Botswana, Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2015},\n pages = {25},\n volume = {68},\n month = {11},\n publisher = {African Journals Online (AJOL)},\n day = {12},\n id = {f3c91be9-f813-3130-a2e4-73ee83efbb5f},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:31.904Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:10.616Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Kenny, David and Reading, Richard and Maude, Glyn and Hancock, Peter and Garbett, Beckie},\n doi = {10.4314/vulnew.v68i1.2},\n journal = {Vulture News},\n number = {1}\n}
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Suspected lead poisoning in two captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) in south africa, in 2008 and 2013.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n North, M., A.; Lane, E., P.; Marnewick, K.; Caldwell, P.; Carlisle, G.; and Hoffman, L., C.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, 86(1). 2015.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"SuspectedPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Suspected lead poisoning in two captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) in south africa, in 2008 and 2013},\n type = {article},\n year = {2015},\n volume = {86},\n publisher = {South African Veterinary Association},\n id = {2832ee8e-690a-3d4e-af9f-3c964c80f868},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:33.690Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:11.879Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Whilst lead poisoning in raptors, scavenging birds and waterfowl is well studied and common knowledge, there is surprisingly little literature detailing the risk to mammalian scavengers and captive carnivores fed hunted meat. This case report describes the death of two captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) following acute onset of nervous symptoms. Clinical signs included hyper-excitability, seizures, arched back, tail held abnormally high and hyper-salivation. Necropsy findings included bullets or a bullet in their stomachs. Kidney and liver lead levels from one cheetah (15.6 ppm and 17 ppm respectively) were consistent with a diagnosis of lead poisoning; liver from the second cheetah was not available for testing. Both animals were routinely fed hunted antelope or game birds. This is the first report of oral lead poisoning in captive large carnivores, although these are unlikely to be the first cases. Without awareness of the risks of feeding hunted game, lead exposure will continue to be an underdiagnosed reality in the rehabilitation of endangered carnivores.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {North, Michelle A. and Lane, Emily P. and Marnewick, Kelly and Caldwell, Peter and Carlisle, Glen and Hoffman, Louw C.},\n doi = {10.4102/jsava.v86i1.1286},\n journal = {Journal of the South African Veterinary Association},\n number = {1}\n}
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\n Whilst lead poisoning in raptors, scavenging birds and waterfowl is well studied and common knowledge, there is surprisingly little literature detailing the risk to mammalian scavengers and captive carnivores fed hunted meat. This case report describes the death of two captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) following acute onset of nervous symptoms. Clinical signs included hyper-excitability, seizures, arched back, tail held abnormally high and hyper-salivation. Necropsy findings included bullets or a bullet in their stomachs. Kidney and liver lead levels from one cheetah (15.6 ppm and 17 ppm respectively) were consistent with a diagnosis of lead poisoning; liver from the second cheetah was not available for testing. Both animals were routinely fed hunted antelope or game birds. This is the first report of oral lead poisoning in captive large carnivores, although these are unlikely to be the first cases. Without awareness of the risks of feeding hunted game, lead exposure will continue to be an underdiagnosed reality in the rehabilitation of endangered carnivores.\n
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\n  \n 2014\n \n \n (2)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Metal bioaccumulation in the fish of the Olifants River, Limpopo province, South Africa, and the associated human health risk: a case study of rednose labeo Labeo rosae from two impoundments.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Jooste, A.; Marr, S., M.; Addo-Bediako, A.; and Luus-Powell, W., J.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n African Journal of Aquatic Science, 39(3): 271-277. 1 2014.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"MetalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Metal bioaccumulation in the fish of the Olifants River, Limpopo province, South Africa, and the associated human health risk: a case study of rednose labeo Labeo rosae from two impoundments},\n type = {article},\n year = {2014},\n keywords = {antimony,chromium,fish muscle,lead,metal pollution,rural communities},\n pages = {271-277},\n volume = {39},\n month = {1},\n publisher = {NISC Pty Ltd},\n day = {1},\n id = {9b4ff2fc-0c28-33c6-addc-0c3a058c0863},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:13.431Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:45:59.029Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The Olifants River, Limpopo River system, is now one of the most polluted rivers in South Africa. The concentrations of metals in fish muscle tissue from two impoundments on the Olifants River, Flag Boshielo Dam and Phalaborwa Barrage, were measured and a human health risk assessment conducted to investigate whether it was safe to consume Labeo rosae from these impoundments. Labeo rosae is one of the most common pan-fish in these impoundments and is frequently available to rural communities. Metals are accumulating in the muscle tissue of L. rosae even though the populations appear to be healthy. At Flag Boshielo Dam the recommended hazard quotient (HQ) of 1 was exceeded for lead and chromium in all L. rosae analysed, and 53% exceeded that for antimony. At Phalaborwa Barrage almost all L. rosae analysed exceeded the recommended HQ for lead, and <25% exceeded that for arsenic. Weekly consumption of 150 g of L. rosae muscle tissue from these impoundments may pose an unacceptable health risk to rural communities.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Jooste, A. and Marr, S. M. and Addo-Bediako, A. and Luus-Powell, W. J.},\n doi = {10.2989/16085914.2014.945989},\n journal = {African Journal of Aquatic Science},\n number = {3}\n}
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\n The Olifants River, Limpopo River system, is now one of the most polluted rivers in South Africa. The concentrations of metals in fish muscle tissue from two impoundments on the Olifants River, Flag Boshielo Dam and Phalaborwa Barrage, were measured and a human health risk assessment conducted to investigate whether it was safe to consume Labeo rosae from these impoundments. Labeo rosae is one of the most common pan-fish in these impoundments and is frequently available to rural communities. Metals are accumulating in the muscle tissue of L. rosae even though the populations appear to be healthy. At Flag Boshielo Dam the recommended hazard quotient (HQ) of 1 was exceeded for lead and chromium in all L. rosae analysed, and 53% exceeded that for antimony. At Phalaborwa Barrage almost all L. rosae analysed exceeded the recommended HQ for lead, and <25% exceeded that for arsenic. Weekly consumption of 150 g of L. rosae muscle tissue from these impoundments may pose an unacceptable health risk to rural communities.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead isotope ratios in bone ash of blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi): A means of screening for the accumulation of contaminants from uraniferous rocks.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Nöthling, J., O.; Du Toit, J., S.; and Myburgh, J., G.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Journal of Environmental Science and Health - Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering, 49(11): 1251-1257. 9 2014.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Lead isotope ratios in bone ash of blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi): A means of screening for the accumulation of contaminants from uraniferous rocks},\n type = {article},\n year = {2014},\n keywords = {Uranium,ash,blesbok,bone,damaliscus pygargus phillipsi,lead isotope},\n pages = {1251-1257},\n volume = {49},\n month = {9},\n publisher = {Taylor and Francis Inc.},\n day = {19},\n id = {b9d6573b-2af9-35ee-bb69-2c822a192dcd},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:22.003Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:05.150Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {This study was done to determine whether blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi) from the Krugersdorp Game Reserve (KGR) in Gauteng Province, South Africa have higher concentrations of 238U and higher 206Pb/204Pb and 207Pb/204Pb ratios in their bone ash than blesbok from a nearby control reserve that is not exposed to mine water and has no outcrops of uraniferous rocks. Eight blesbok females from the KGR and seven from the control site, all killed with a brain shot, were used. A Thermo X-series 2 quadrupole ICPMS was used to measure the concentrations of 238U and lead and a Nu Instruments NuPlasma HR MC-ICP-MS to measure the lead isotope ratios in the tibial ash from each animal. KGR blesbok had higher mean concentrations of 238U (P = 0.02) and ratios of 206Pb/204Pb and 207Pb/ 204Pb (P < 0.00001) than the control blesbok. The probability of rejecting the false null hypothesis of no difference in the 206Pb/ 204Pb or 207Pb/204Pb ratios between KGR and control reserve animals (the power of the test) was 0.999. The blesbok from the KGR accumulated contaminants from an uraniferous environment. The 206Pb/204Pb and 207Pb/204Pb ratios in tibial ash proved effective in confirming accumulation of contaminants from uraniferous rocks. © 2014 Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Nöthling, Johan O. and Du Toit, Johannes S. and Myburgh, Jan G.},\n doi = {10.1080/10934529.2014.910040},\n journal = {Journal of Environmental Science and Health - Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering},\n number = {11}\n}
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\n This study was done to determine whether blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi) from the Krugersdorp Game Reserve (KGR) in Gauteng Province, South Africa have higher concentrations of 238U and higher 206Pb/204Pb and 207Pb/204Pb ratios in their bone ash than blesbok from a nearby control reserve that is not exposed to mine water and has no outcrops of uraniferous rocks. Eight blesbok females from the KGR and seven from the control site, all killed with a brain shot, were used. A Thermo X-series 2 quadrupole ICPMS was used to measure the concentrations of 238U and lead and a Nu Instruments NuPlasma HR MC-ICP-MS to measure the lead isotope ratios in the tibial ash from each animal. KGR blesbok had higher mean concentrations of 238U (P = 0.02) and ratios of 206Pb/204Pb and 207Pb/ 204Pb (P < 0.00001) than the control blesbok. The probability of rejecting the false null hypothesis of no difference in the 206Pb/ 204Pb or 207Pb/204Pb ratios between KGR and control reserve animals (the power of the test) was 0.999. The blesbok from the KGR accumulated contaminants from an uraniferous environment. The 206Pb/204Pb and 207Pb/204Pb ratios in tibial ash proved effective in confirming accumulation of contaminants from uraniferous rocks. © 2014 Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.\n
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\n  \n 2013\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Metal distribution in tissues of free-range chickens near a lead-zinc mine in Kabwe, Zambia.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Yabe, J.; Nakayama, S., M.; Ikenaka, Y.; Muzandu, K.; Choongo, K.; Mainda, G.; Kabeta, M.; Ishizuka, M.; and Umemura, T.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 32(1): 189-192. 1 2013.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"MetalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Metal distribution in tissues of free-range chickens near a lead-zinc mine in Kabwe, Zambia},\n type = {article},\n year = {2013},\n keywords = {Chicken,Lead-Zinc mine,Tissue metal distribution,Zambia},\n pages = {189-192},\n volume = {32},\n month = {1},\n id = {7dfc3aa4-e9dd-3e50-a319-510537fa4ac3},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:40.667Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:17.117Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Concentrations of Pb, Cd, and other metals in tissues of 17 free-range and 32 commercial broiler chickens from the Kabwe mining town in Zambia were determined. Mean concentrations of Pb and Cd exceeded maximum levels for human consumption in some organs including muscle (Pb only) in free-range chickens, in contrast to low levels in broiler chickens. Human consumers in Kabwe could be exposed to Pb and Cd in free-range chickens. © 2012 SETAC.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Yabe, John and Nakayama, Shouta M.M. and Ikenaka, Yoshinori and Muzandu, Kaampwe and Choongo, Kennedy and Mainda, Geoffrey and Kabeta, Matthew and Ishizuka, Mayumi and Umemura, Takashi},\n doi = {10.1002/etc.2029},\n journal = {Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry},\n number = {1}\n}
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\n Concentrations of Pb, Cd, and other metals in tissues of 17 free-range and 32 commercial broiler chickens from the Kabwe mining town in Zambia were determined. Mean concentrations of Pb and Cd exceeded maximum levels for human consumption in some organs including muscle (Pb only) in free-range chickens, in contrast to low levels in broiler chickens. Human consumers in Kabwe could be exposed to Pb and Cd in free-range chickens. © 2012 SETAC.\n
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\n  \n 2012\n \n \n (3)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead toxicity: Consequences and interventions in an intensively managed (Gyps coprotheres) vulture colony.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Naidoo, V.; Wolter, K.; Espie, I.; and Kotze, A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 43(3): 573-578. 9 2012.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Lead toxicity: Consequences and interventions in an intensively managed (Gyps coprotheres) vulture colony},\n type = {article},\n year = {2012},\n keywords = {Calcium EDTA,Gyps coprotheres,Lead,Paint,Soil,Vultures},\n pages = {573-578},\n volume = {43},\n month = {9},\n day = {20},\n id = {cd3a6f1a-42a9-35d7-bd70-150dd6e3aeb0},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:36.934Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:14.164Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa (NZG) is involved in the ex situ conservation of Gyps coprotheres, the Cape Griffon vulture (CGV) and houses 24 birds in a 100-yr-old aviary. Following the death of one vulture with high liver lead concentrations, an investigation was launched to ascertain the source(s) and consequences of lead toxicity in this breeding colony. Whole blood from 24 CGV, paint from the enclosure, water, and soil sampled at various locations within the enclosure were evaluated for their lead concentration, and data were gathered from NZG's medical records. The lead concentration in the paint, water, and enclosure soil was 5,100 μg/g, 0.5 μg/dl, and 72.48 ± 21.83 μg/g, respectively. The whole-blood lead concentrations were 56.58 ± 11 μg/dl. The breeding history of six pairs within the contaminated enclosure since 2002 showed 45 eggs laid, of which 44% were infertile and 24% successfully reared. The medical records revealed evidence of osteodystrophy despite adequate nutrition. As intervention measures, six birds were treated with Ca2+EDTA and the topsoil inside the enclosure was replaced. As a result, the lead concentration in the enclosure soil dropped to14.74 ± 14.39 μg/g, and the whole-blood lead concentrations declined to 42.75 ± 11.64 μg/dl. It was concluded that lead concentrations in whole blood in excess of 100 μg/dl leads to clinical signs of lead toxicity in the CGV. Lower levels appear to interfere mainly with reproductive potential. Copyright © 2012 by American Association of Zoo Veterinarians.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Naidoo, Vinny and Wolter, Kerri and Espie, Ian and Kotze, Antoinette},\n doi = {10.1638/2012-0060R.1},\n journal = {Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine},\n number = {3}\n}
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\n The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa (NZG) is involved in the ex situ conservation of Gyps coprotheres, the Cape Griffon vulture (CGV) and houses 24 birds in a 100-yr-old aviary. Following the death of one vulture with high liver lead concentrations, an investigation was launched to ascertain the source(s) and consequences of lead toxicity in this breeding colony. Whole blood from 24 CGV, paint from the enclosure, water, and soil sampled at various locations within the enclosure were evaluated for their lead concentration, and data were gathered from NZG's medical records. The lead concentration in the paint, water, and enclosure soil was 5,100 μg/g, 0.5 μg/dl, and 72.48 ± 21.83 μg/g, respectively. The whole-blood lead concentrations were 56.58 ± 11 μg/dl. The breeding history of six pairs within the contaminated enclosure since 2002 showed 45 eggs laid, of which 44% were infertile and 24% successfully reared. The medical records revealed evidence of osteodystrophy despite adequate nutrition. As intervention measures, six birds were treated with Ca2+EDTA and the topsoil inside the enclosure was replaced. As a result, the lead concentration in the enclosure soil dropped to14.74 ± 14.39 μg/g, and the whole-blood lead concentrations declined to 42.75 ± 11.64 μg/dl. It was concluded that lead concentrations in whole blood in excess of 100 μg/dl leads to clinical signs of lead toxicity in the CGV. Lower levels appear to interfere mainly with reproductive potential. Copyright © 2012 by American Association of Zoo Veterinarians.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n PATTERNS OF MORTALITY IN FREE-RANGING CALIFORNIA CONDORS (GYMNOGYPS CALIFORNIANUS).\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Rideout, B., A.; Stalis, I.; Papendick, R.; Pessier, A.; Puschner, B.; Finkelstein, M., E.; Smith, D., R.; Johnson, M.; Mace, M.; Stroud, R.; Brandt, J.; Burnett, J.; Parish, C.; Petterson, J.; Witte, C.; Stringfield, C.; Orr, K.; Zuba, J.; Wallace, M.; and Grantham, J.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 1(48): 95-112. 2012.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"PATTERNSPaper\n  \n \n \n \"PATTERNSWebsite\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {PATTERNS OF MORTALITY IN FREE-RANGING CALIFORNIA CONDORS (GYMNOGYPS CALIFORNIANUS)},\n type = {article},\n year = {2012},\n keywords = {California Condor,Cathartidae,lead toxicosis,mortality,pathology,reintroduction},\n pages = {95-112},\n volume = {1},\n websites = {http://meridian.allenpress.com/jwd/article-pdf/48/1/95/2334114/0090-3558-48_1_95.pdf},\n id = {f3bf92d0-aff8-374f-92e2-609007b276b8},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:37.614Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:59:19.108Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n language = {English},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {We document causes of death in free-ranging California Condors (Gymnogyps californianus) from the inception of the reintroduction program in 1992 through December 2009 to identify current and historic mortality factors that might interfere with establishment of self-sustaining populations in the wild. A total of 135 deaths occurred from October 1992 (the first post-release death) through December 2009, from a maximum population-at-risk of 352 birds, for a cumulative crude mortality rate of 38%. A definitive cause of death was determined for 76 of the 98 submitted cases, 70% (53/76) of which were attributed to anthropogenic causes. Trash ingestion was the most important mortality factor in nestlings (proportional mortality rate [PMR] 73%; 8/11), while lead toxicosis was the most important factor in juveniles (PMR 26%; 13/50) and adults (PMR 67%; 10/15). These results demonstrate that the leading causes of death at all California Condor release sites are anthropogenic. The mortality factors thought to be important in the decline of the historic California Condor population, particularly lead poisoning, remain the most important documented mortality factors today. Without effective mitigation, these factors can be expected to have the same effects on the sustainability of the wild populations as they have in the past.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Rideout, Bruce A and Stalis, Ilse and Papendick, Rebecca and Pessier, Allan and Puschner, Birgit and Finkelstein, Myra E and Smith, Donald R and Johnson, Matthew and Mace, Michael and Stroud, Richard and Brandt, Joseph and Burnett, Joe and Parish, Chris and Petterson, Jim and Witte, Carmel and Stringfield, Cynthia and Orr, Kathy and Zuba, Jeff and Wallace, Mike and Grantham, Jesse},\n journal = {Journal of Wildlife Diseases},\n number = {48}\n}
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\n We document causes of death in free-ranging California Condors (Gymnogyps californianus) from the inception of the reintroduction program in 1992 through December 2009 to identify current and historic mortality factors that might interfere with establishment of self-sustaining populations in the wild. A total of 135 deaths occurred from October 1992 (the first post-release death) through December 2009, from a maximum population-at-risk of 352 birds, for a cumulative crude mortality rate of 38%. A definitive cause of death was determined for 76 of the 98 submitted cases, 70% (53/76) of which were attributed to anthropogenic causes. Trash ingestion was the most important mortality factor in nestlings (proportional mortality rate [PMR] 73%; 8/11), while lead toxicosis was the most important factor in juveniles (PMR 26%; 13/50) and adults (PMR 67%; 10/15). These results demonstrate that the leading causes of death at all California Condor release sites are anthropogenic. The mortality factors thought to be important in the decline of the historic California Condor population, particularly lead poisoning, remain the most important documented mortality factors today. Without effective mitigation, these factors can be expected to have the same effects on the sustainability of the wild populations as they have in the past.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Assessing the levels of trace metal from two fish species harvested from treated waste water stored in a manmade lake Pretoria, South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Olowoyo; J, O.; Mdakane; S, T., R.; Okedeyi; and O, O.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n African Journal of Biotechnology, 11(4): 838-842. 1 2012.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AssessingPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Assessing the levels of trace metal from two fish species harvested from treated waste water stored in a manmade lake Pretoria, South Africa},\n type = {article},\n year = {2012},\n pages = {838-842},\n volume = {11},\n month = {1},\n publisher = {Academic Journals},\n day = {12},\n id = {fc7ca320-e67a-3919-bc33-dfe94816a5c9},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:39.494Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:16.212Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The persistent problem of water scarcity with the ever increasing demand of water has necessitated the reuse of effluent in agriculture. The present study evaluated the reuse of treated waste water and bioaccumulation properties of two fish species from a manmade lake. Trace metals content of two fish species: Clarias gariepinus and Cyprinus carpio and levels of trace metals from waste water in the lake where the fish species were harvested were determined by inductive couple plasma-optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). The trace metal values from fish samples ranged between 0.45 and 4.41 µg/g for Cu, 16.45 and 72.23 µg/g for Zn, 1.92 and 4.71 µg/g for Cr, 2.45 and 5.65 µg/g for Ni, 10.23 and 44.31 µg/g for Mn, 9.67 and 46.59 µg/g for Fe and 0.12 and 0.56 µg/g for Pb. The carp exhibited a significantly higher concentration for the trace metals for all the parts analyzed (p < 0.01). The levels of trace metals concentration in C. carpio was in the order of liver > gill > muscle > bone and metal accumulation was in the order of Zn > Fe > Mn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Pb. The concentration of trace metals such as zinc, iron, chromium and nickel in fish samples were higher than the recommended legal limits for human consumption. The result reveals that properly treated waste water could be used for the purpose of aquaculture.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Olowoyo, undefined and J, O and Mdakane, undefined and S, T R and Okedeyi, undefined and O, O},\n doi = {10.5897/ajb11.2788},\n journal = {African Journal of Biotechnology},\n number = {4}\n}
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\n The persistent problem of water scarcity with the ever increasing demand of water has necessitated the reuse of effluent in agriculture. The present study evaluated the reuse of treated waste water and bioaccumulation properties of two fish species from a manmade lake. Trace metals content of two fish species: Clarias gariepinus and Cyprinus carpio and levels of trace metals from waste water in the lake where the fish species were harvested were determined by inductive couple plasma-optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). The trace metal values from fish samples ranged between 0.45 and 4.41 µg/g for Cu, 16.45 and 72.23 µg/g for Zn, 1.92 and 4.71 µg/g for Cr, 2.45 and 5.65 µg/g for Ni, 10.23 and 44.31 µg/g for Mn, 9.67 and 46.59 µg/g for Fe and 0.12 and 0.56 µg/g for Pb. The carp exhibited a significantly higher concentration for the trace metals for all the parts analyzed (p < 0.01). The levels of trace metals concentration in C. carpio was in the order of liver > gill > muscle > bone and metal accumulation was in the order of Zn > Fe > Mn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Pb. The concentration of trace metals such as zinc, iron, chromium and nickel in fish samples were higher than the recommended legal limits for human consumption. The result reveals that properly treated waste water could be used for the purpose of aquaculture.\n
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\n  \n 2011\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Metal and metalloid contamination in roadside soil and wild rats around a Pb-Zn mine.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Kabwe, I.; Shouta, Z.; Nakayama, M., M.; Ikenaka, Y.; Hamada, K.; Muzandu, K.; Choongo, K.; Teraoka, H.; Mizuno, N.; and Ishizuka, M.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Pollution, 159(1): 175-181. 1 2011.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"MetalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Metal and metalloid contamination in roadside soil and wild rats around a Pb-Zn mine},\n type = {article},\n year = {2011},\n keywords = {GIS,Metal,Metalloid,Soil pollution,wild rat 3},\n pages = {175-181},\n volume = {159},\n month = {1},\n id = {6d086173-be7f-316d-aead-7c741cad503c},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:18.601Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:16:10.663Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Metal (Cr, Co, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni) and metalloid (As) accumulation was studied in roadside soil and wild rat (Rattus sp.) samples from near a Pb-Zn mine (Kabwe, Zambia) and the capital city of Zambia (Lusaka). The concentrations of the seven metals and As in the soil samples and Pb in the rat tissue samples were quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, Cu, Cd, and As in Kabwe soil were much higher than benchmark values. Geographic Information System analysis indicated the source of metal pollution was mining and smelting activity. Interestingly, the area south of the mine was more highly contaminated even though the prevailing wind flow was westward. Wild rats from Kabwe had much higher tissue concentrations of Pb than those from Lusaka. Their body weight and renal Pb levels were negatively correlated, which suggests that mining activity might affect terrestrial animals in Kabwe. Capsule: The area around Kabwe, Zambia is highly polluted with metals and As. Wild rats from this area had high tissue concentrations of Pb and decreased body weight.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Kabwe, In and Shouta, Zambia and Nakayama, M M and Ikenaka, Yoshinori and Hamada, Kyohei and Muzandu, Kaampwe and Choongo, Kennedy and Teraoka, Hiroki and Mizuno, Naoharu and Ishizuka, Mayumi},\n journal = {Environmental Pollution},\n number = {1}\n}
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\n Metal (Cr, Co, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni) and metalloid (As) accumulation was studied in roadside soil and wild rat (Rattus sp.) samples from near a Pb-Zn mine (Kabwe, Zambia) and the capital city of Zambia (Lusaka). The concentrations of the seven metals and As in the soil samples and Pb in the rat tissue samples were quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, Cu, Cd, and As in Kabwe soil were much higher than benchmark values. Geographic Information System analysis indicated the source of metal pollution was mining and smelting activity. Interestingly, the area south of the mine was more highly contaminated even though the prevailing wind flow was westward. Wild rats from Kabwe had much higher tissue concentrations of Pb than those from Lusaka. Their body weight and renal Pb levels were negatively correlated, which suggests that mining activity might affect terrestrial animals in Kabwe. Capsule: The area around Kabwe, Zambia is highly polluted with metals and As. Wild rats from this area had high tissue concentrations of Pb and decreased body weight.\n
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\n  \n 2010\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Identification of sources of environmental lead in South Africa from surface soil geochemical maps.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n de Villiers, S.; Thiart, C.; and Basson, N., C.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 32(5): 451-459. 2010.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"IdentificationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Identification of sources of environmental lead in South Africa from surface soil geochemical maps},\n type = {article},\n year = {2010},\n keywords = {Bioavailability,Cadmium,Lead,Mehlich-3,Surface soil},\n pages = {451-459},\n volume = {32},\n id = {9d6fffb8-c963-3ff3-95f5-a7f2ae528508},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:49.912Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:22.815Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The bioavailability of lead in soil is of considerable importance to human and animal health. Although selective extraction has been explored as a more appropriate technique than total heavy metal analysis in environmental pollution assessments, such studies remain scarce globally and are almost non-existent in developing countries. Results for a large-scale study of extractable lead levels in undisturbed soil samples in South Africa identify several geographic areas of concern. Lead levels are considerably elevated relative to background levels in the Johannesburg urban and industrial area. Areas of active lead mining also exhibit higher surface soil values. Interestingly, areas of active and intensive coal mining activity display relatively low soil Pb values, possibly attributable to the relatively low heavy metal content of South African coal. In all instances, distribution of cadmium, a carcinogenic element, correlates with that of lead. The results demonstrate the usefulness of the quick and easy Mehlich-3 single extractant technique, an established technique in micronutrient studies, to simultaneously provide valuable environmental data for toxic metals such as Pb and Cd. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {de Villiers, Stephanie and Thiart, Christien and Basson, Nicholas C.},\n doi = {10.1007/s10653-010-9288-8},\n journal = {Environmental Geochemistry and Health},\n number = {5}\n}
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\n The bioavailability of lead in soil is of considerable importance to human and animal health. Although selective extraction has been explored as a more appropriate technique than total heavy metal analysis in environmental pollution assessments, such studies remain scarce globally and are almost non-existent in developing countries. Results for a large-scale study of extractable lead levels in undisturbed soil samples in South Africa identify several geographic areas of concern. Lead levels are considerably elevated relative to background levels in the Johannesburg urban and industrial area. Areas of active lead mining also exhibit higher surface soil values. Interestingly, areas of active and intensive coal mining activity display relatively low soil Pb values, possibly attributable to the relatively low heavy metal content of South African coal. In all instances, distribution of cadmium, a carcinogenic element, correlates with that of lead. The results demonstrate the usefulness of the quick and easy Mehlich-3 single extractant technique, an established technique in micronutrient studies, to simultaneously provide valuable environmental data for toxic metals such as Pb and Cd. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.\n
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\n  \n 2008\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Metals and selenium in the liver and bone of three dolphin species from South Australia, 1988-2004.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Lavery, T., J.; Butterfield, N.; Kemper, C., M.; Reid, R., J.; and Sanderson, K.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Science of the Total Environment, 390(1): 77-85. 2 2008.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"MetalsPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Metals and selenium in the liver and bone of three dolphin species from South Australia, 1988-2004},\n type = {article},\n year = {2008},\n keywords = {Australia,Dolphins,Heavy metals,Marine environment,Pollution,Toxicology},\n pages = {77-85},\n volume = {390},\n month = {2},\n day = {1},\n id = {e149544d-4096-3690-ae3e-f2a1be81d351},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:19.154Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:03.281Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Metal and selenium concentrations (wet weight) were determined in the liver (Cd, Hg, Pb, Zn, Cu and Se) and bone (Pb and Cd) of common dolphins (Delphinus delphis, N = 71) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus, N = 12, and Tursiops aduncus, N = 71) stranded or by-caught in South Australia from 1988 to 2004. Differences in metal burdens existed between species, stranding location, and relative age. T. aduncus had the greatest mean tissue burdens of liver Pb (0.45 mg/kg), Cd (6.45 mg/kg), Hg (475.78 mg/kg), Se (178.85 mg/kg) and Zn (93.88 mg/kg) and bone Pb (2.78 mg/kg), probably reflecting their coastal habitat and benthic prey. Mean Cu was highest in T. truncatus (21.18 mg/kg). Bone Cd was measured only in T. aduncus and averaged 0.05 mg/kg. Stranding location impacted metal burdens. Dolphins from Spencer Gulf had higher mean levels of liver Pb (0.39 mg/kg) while Gulf St Vincent dolphins had greater liver Hg (444.64 mg/kg), liver Se (163.12 mg/kg), and bone Pb (2.85 mg/kg). This may be due to high anthropogenic inputs of Pb and Hg into Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent respectively. Liver Cd, Hg, Se and Pb increased with age in all species while Cu decreased with age, in keeping with previous studies. Se and Hg were positively correlated. The possibility that metallothioneins are driving observed correlations between Zn, Cd, Hg and Cu are discussed. Future research must investigate the toxicological consequences of the metal concentrations reported. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Lavery, Trish J. and Butterfield, Nicole and Kemper, Catherine M. and Reid, Robert J. and Sanderson, Ken},\n doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2007.09.016},\n journal = {Science of the Total Environment},\n number = {1}\n}
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\n Metal and selenium concentrations (wet weight) were determined in the liver (Cd, Hg, Pb, Zn, Cu and Se) and bone (Pb and Cd) of common dolphins (Delphinus delphis, N = 71) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus, N = 12, and Tursiops aduncus, N = 71) stranded or by-caught in South Australia from 1988 to 2004. Differences in metal burdens existed between species, stranding location, and relative age. T. aduncus had the greatest mean tissue burdens of liver Pb (0.45 mg/kg), Cd (6.45 mg/kg), Hg (475.78 mg/kg), Se (178.85 mg/kg) and Zn (93.88 mg/kg) and bone Pb (2.78 mg/kg), probably reflecting their coastal habitat and benthic prey. Mean Cu was highest in T. truncatus (21.18 mg/kg). Bone Cd was measured only in T. aduncus and averaged 0.05 mg/kg. Stranding location impacted metal burdens. Dolphins from Spencer Gulf had higher mean levels of liver Pb (0.39 mg/kg) while Gulf St Vincent dolphins had greater liver Hg (444.64 mg/kg), liver Se (163.12 mg/kg), and bone Pb (2.85 mg/kg). This may be due to high anthropogenic inputs of Pb and Hg into Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent respectively. Liver Cd, Hg, Se and Pb increased with age in all species while Cu decreased with age, in keeping with previous studies. Se and Hg were positively correlated. The possibility that metallothioneins are driving observed correlations between Zn, Cd, Hg and Cu are discussed. Future research must investigate the toxicological consequences of the metal concentrations reported. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.\n
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\n  \n 2007\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead induced malformations in embryos of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822).\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Osman, A., G.; Wuertz, S.; Mekkawy, I., A.; Exner, H., J.; and Kirschbaum, F.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Environmental Toxicology, 22(4): 375-389. 2007.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Lead induced malformations in embryos of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)},\n type = {article},\n year = {2007},\n keywords = {African catfish,Bioaccumulation,Fish embryos,Histopathology,Lead toxicity,Morphological aberrations},\n pages = {375-389},\n volume = {22},\n id = {9fa8aa8d-bed6-381c-82ef-2ce44af0f536},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:16.062Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:00.664Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The effect of lead exposure (100, 300, and 500 μg/L lead nitrate) on embryos of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus were examined by gross morphology and histopathology. Exposition to lead nitrate caused a progressively longer delay in hatching and also reduced the percentage of embryos, which successfully completely hatch from 75% in the control group to 40% in the group exposed to 500 μg/L lead. Categories of gross morphological abnormalities comprised four major ones (irregular head shape, pericardial edema, yolk sac edema, and notochordal defect) and two minor deformations (finfold defect and reduction of pigmentation). The frequencies of recorded morphological malformations increased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing lead concentration in all stages. Four histopathological categories comprising notochordal defect, gill malformation, eye malformation, and detached skin were recorded. All these malformations were recorded only in the embryos exposed to 300 and 500 μg/L lead. The degrees of histological lesions increased with increasing lead concentration and with length of exposure time. Mean concentrations of lead in the whole embryos were measured and the lowest concentrations of lead were recorded in the control groups (0.3-1.0 μg/g wet wt). Accumulated lead increased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing dose in all stages. Accumulation of lead in the chorion suggests that the chorion acts as an effective barrier protecting the embryo. Low impact of lead on prehatching stages may be related to both the protective capacity of the chorion and the ability of the perivitelline fluid to concentrate lead. The present results show that (i) lead toxicity was dosage dependent and become evident in gross morphological malformations, followed by histopathological changes, and (ii) early life stages of the African catfish C. gariepinus are a very sensitive bioassay for aquatic lead pollution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Osman, Alaa G.M. and Wuertz, Sven and Mekkawy, Imam A. and Exner, Hans Jürgen and Kirschbaum, Frank},\n doi = {10.1002/tox.20272},\n journal = {Environmental Toxicology},\n number = {4}\n}
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\n The effect of lead exposure (100, 300, and 500 μg/L lead nitrate) on embryos of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus were examined by gross morphology and histopathology. Exposition to lead nitrate caused a progressively longer delay in hatching and also reduced the percentage of embryos, which successfully completely hatch from 75% in the control group to 40% in the group exposed to 500 μg/L lead. Categories of gross morphological abnormalities comprised four major ones (irregular head shape, pericardial edema, yolk sac edema, and notochordal defect) and two minor deformations (finfold defect and reduction of pigmentation). The frequencies of recorded morphological malformations increased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing lead concentration in all stages. Four histopathological categories comprising notochordal defect, gill malformation, eye malformation, and detached skin were recorded. All these malformations were recorded only in the embryos exposed to 300 and 500 μg/L lead. The degrees of histological lesions increased with increasing lead concentration and with length of exposure time. Mean concentrations of lead in the whole embryos were measured and the lowest concentrations of lead were recorded in the control groups (0.3-1.0 μg/g wet wt). Accumulated lead increased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing dose in all stages. Accumulation of lead in the chorion suggests that the chorion acts as an effective barrier protecting the embryo. Low impact of lead on prehatching stages may be related to both the protective capacity of the chorion and the ability of the perivitelline fluid to concentrate lead. The present results show that (i) lead toxicity was dosage dependent and become evident in gross morphological malformations, followed by histopathological changes, and (ii) early life stages of the African catfish C. gariepinus are a very sensitive bioassay for aquatic lead pollution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.\n
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\n  \n 2004\n \n \n (2)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n THE CONCENTRATION OF TEN METALS IN THE TISSUES OF SHARK SPECIES SQUALUS MEGALOPS AND MUSTELUS MUSTELUS (CHONDRICHTHYES) OCCURING ALONG THE SOUTHEASTERN COAST OF SOUTH AFRICA.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Erasmus, C., P.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Ph.D. Thesis, 2004.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"THEPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@phdthesis{\n title = {THE CONCENTRATION OF TEN METALS IN THE TISSUES OF SHARK SPECIES SQUALUS MEGALOPS AND MUSTELUS MUSTELUS (CHONDRICHTHYES) OCCURING ALONG THE SOUTHEASTERN COAST OF SOUTH AFRICA},\n type = {phdthesis},\n year = {2004},\n institution = {University of Port Elizabeth},\n id = {a7c96707-49ba-3300-a891-d9f85547374c},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:06.331Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:23:41.352Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n user_context = {PhD Thesis},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {phdthesis},\n author = {Erasmus, Christina Petronella}\n}
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles as models for testing for pollution by zinc, copper, lead and cadmium.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Haywood, L., K.; Alexander, G., J.; Byrne, M., J.; and Cukrowska, E.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n African Zoology, 39(2): 163-174. 10 2004.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"XenopusPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles as models for testing for pollution by zinc, copper, lead and cadmium},\n type = {article},\n year = {2004},\n keywords = {growth,malformations,metals,survival,tadpoles},\n pages = {163-174},\n volume = {39},\n month = {10},\n id = {207cb18a-8423-374d-aeb2-fad70fde244a},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:33.097Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:26:33.047Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n language = {English},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The toxicity of bio-available Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd on the life stages of Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles was investigated. Cu and Cd were found to affect the hatching success of the embryos, with a strong negative relationship existing between the increase in Cu concentrations and the hatching of the embryos. Only concentrations above 0.6 ppm Cd affected the hatching of the embryos. All metals affected the survival of tadpoles over the seven days of exposure, with Zn and Cu showing a steady linear toxicity and Pb and Cd a threshold toxicity effect. Metals affected the growth of the tadpoles by reducing body length with increasing concentrations. An increase in the concentration of each metal resulted in an increase in the frequency and severity of malformations among the tadpoles. The percentage of malformed tadpoles was dependent on the metal and concentration to which they were exposed. Our data describe the relationships among hatching success, survival, growth rate and the frequency of malforma-tions of tadpoles in relation to different concentrations of the four metals. Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles can be used successfully in bioassays to biologically quantify the severity of Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd pollution.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Haywood, Lorren K and Alexander, Graham J and Byrne, Marcus J and Cukrowska, Ewa},\n journal = {African Zoology},\n number = {2}\n}
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\n The toxicity of bio-available Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd on the life stages of Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles was investigated. Cu and Cd were found to affect the hatching success of the embryos, with a strong negative relationship existing between the increase in Cu concentrations and the hatching of the embryos. Only concentrations above 0.6 ppm Cd affected the hatching of the embryos. All metals affected the survival of tadpoles over the seven days of exposure, with Zn and Cu showing a steady linear toxicity and Pb and Cd a threshold toxicity effect. Metals affected the growth of the tadpoles by reducing body length with increasing concentrations. An increase in the concentration of each metal resulted in an increase in the frequency and severity of malformations among the tadpoles. The percentage of malformed tadpoles was dependent on the metal and concentration to which they were exposed. Our data describe the relationships among hatching success, survival, growth rate and the frequency of malforma-tions of tadpoles in relation to different concentrations of the four metals. Xenopus laevis embryos and tadpoles can be used successfully in bioassays to biologically quantify the severity of Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd pollution.\n
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\n  \n 2003\n \n \n (3)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Experimental study of blood lead kinetics in estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) exposed to ingested lead shot.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Hammerton, K., M.; Jayasinghe, N.; Jeffree, R., A.; and Lim, R., P.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 45(3): 390-398. 2003.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"ExperimentalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Experimental study of blood lead kinetics in estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) exposed to ingested lead shot},\n type = {article},\n year = {2003},\n pages = {390-398},\n volume = {45},\n publisher = {Springer New York},\n id = {7e376631-ef9d-33e1-b13c-224e036e1599},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:32.503Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:11.016Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {A previous study of lead (Pb) contamination in estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) in Kakadu National Park, Australia, found elevated Pb levels in bone and flesh from individuals caught in habitats where hunting with lead ammunition had occurred. Lead shot was suspected as the potential source of Pb in these animals. An investigation was designed to determine if crocodiles are capable of retaining and dissolving lead shot in their stomachs and absorbing the ionic Pb into the blood. Four of the six juvenile crocodiles (C. porosus) used in the experiment were fed an initial dose of five or ten lead shot each. Most of the lead shot were retained in the stomach over the 20-week experimental period, as confirmed by stomach lavage and radiography of the stomach region. From 13 to 30% of the original weight of individual lead shot had been eroded in that time. In vitro experiments confirmed that lead shot could be dissolved under conditions simulating those known for the crocodilian stomach. Blood Pb concentrations increased by an order of magnitude within a week after dosing three crocodiles with five lead shot each, and then attained steady-state equilibrium 5-20 weeks after dosing, with blood Pb steady-state levels ranging from 278 to 363 μg/dL. The blood Pb concentration-time curves in these crocodiles followed a one-compartment model with first-order loss kinetics that yielded an apparent biological half-life for Pb in blood of about 3.4 days. Throughout the experiment, the crocodiles remained in apparent good physical condition and displayed no clinical signs of Pb toxicosis. These observations, together with the very high blood Pb levels that were sustained for several months, suggest that crocodilians may possess a relatively high degree of resistance to Pb toxicity.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Hammerton, K. M. and Jayasinghe, N. and Jeffree, R. A. and Lim, R. P.},\n doi = {10.1007/s00244-003-0234-y},\n journal = {Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology},\n number = {3}\n}
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\n A previous study of lead (Pb) contamination in estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) in Kakadu National Park, Australia, found elevated Pb levels in bone and flesh from individuals caught in habitats where hunting with lead ammunition had occurred. Lead shot was suspected as the potential source of Pb in these animals. An investigation was designed to determine if crocodiles are capable of retaining and dissolving lead shot in their stomachs and absorbing the ionic Pb into the blood. Four of the six juvenile crocodiles (C. porosus) used in the experiment were fed an initial dose of five or ten lead shot each. Most of the lead shot were retained in the stomach over the 20-week experimental period, as confirmed by stomach lavage and radiography of the stomach region. From 13 to 30% of the original weight of individual lead shot had been eroded in that time. In vitro experiments confirmed that lead shot could be dissolved under conditions simulating those known for the crocodilian stomach. Blood Pb concentrations increased by an order of magnitude within a week after dosing three crocodiles with five lead shot each, and then attained steady-state equilibrium 5-20 weeks after dosing, with blood Pb steady-state levels ranging from 278 to 363 μg/dL. The blood Pb concentration-time curves in these crocodiles followed a one-compartment model with first-order loss kinetics that yielded an apparent biological half-life for Pb in blood of about 3.4 days. Throughout the experiment, the crocodiles remained in apparent good physical condition and displayed no clinical signs of Pb toxicosis. These observations, together with the very high blood Pb levels that were sustained for several months, suggest that crocodilians may possess a relatively high degree of resistance to Pb toxicity.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n UPTAKE AND DISTRIBUTION OF LEAD (Pb) AND CADMIUM (Cd) IN THE FRESHWATER CRAB, POTAMONAUTES PERLATUS (CRUSTACEA) IN THE EERSTE RIVER, SOUTH AFRICA.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Reinecke, A., J.; Snyman, R., G.; and Nel, J., A., J.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report 2003.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"UPTAKEPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {UPTAKE AND DISTRIBUTION OF LEAD (Pb) AND CADMIUM (Cd) IN THE FRESHWATER CRAB, POTAMONAUTES PERLATUS (CRUSTACEA) IN THE EERSTE RIVER, SOUTH AFRICA},\n type = {techreport},\n year = {2003},\n keywords = {Potamonautes perlatus,cadmium,distribution,freshwater crabs,lead,uptake},\n id = {b1181a5c-1744-3084-b067-a1359ff7c48a},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:38.294Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:15.142Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The uptake and distribution of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in the freshwater crab, Potamonautes perlatus in the Eerste River, South Africa were studied seasonally over two years by comparing concentrations in crabs, water and sediment in two localities, one upstream and one downstream from the town of Stellenbosch. Lead and cadmium concentrations in whole crabs of different size classes as well as concentrations in various organs and tissues were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Data on physical, chemical and bacteriological features are also presented. The mean Zn concentration in the sediment of the downstream locality (77.5 ± 38.4 µg g −1) was significantly higher than in the less polluted upstream locality (44.7 ± 32.8 µg g −1) whilst the manganese concentration of the sediment was significantly higher in the upstream locality. The gonads (mean Pb 23.4, range 0.1-125.0 µg g −1 ; mean Cd 5.3, range 0.1-22.2 µg g −1) and carapace (mean Pb 23.4, range 0.7-327.6 µg g −1 ; mean Cd 4.0, range 0.4-18.5 µg g −1) contained the highest concentrations of both metals irrespective of season or locality. For both Pb and Cd significant differences (p < 0.05, Student's t-test) were found between the metal content of different organs. The gonads had the highest and the digestive glands the lowest concentrations of both heavy metals. Results indicated that anthropogenic activities did not influence sediment and water concentrations significantly. Smaller crabs accumulated more lead and cadmium than larger crabs with all crabs having significantly higher concentrations than both water and sediment. No significant differences in mean concentrations of lead and cadmium in whole crabs or organs were found between the two localities. Although body loads for both metals did not reflect prevailing environmental levels of these metals reliably, the crabs may still be used to monitor bioavailability over time.},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Reinecke, A J and Snyman, R G and Nel, J A J}\n}
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\n The uptake and distribution of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in the freshwater crab, Potamonautes perlatus in the Eerste River, South Africa were studied seasonally over two years by comparing concentrations in crabs, water and sediment in two localities, one upstream and one downstream from the town of Stellenbosch. Lead and cadmium concentrations in whole crabs of different size classes as well as concentrations in various organs and tissues were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Data on physical, chemical and bacteriological features are also presented. The mean Zn concentration in the sediment of the downstream locality (77.5 ± 38.4 µg g −1) was significantly higher than in the less polluted upstream locality (44.7 ± 32.8 µg g −1) whilst the manganese concentration of the sediment was significantly higher in the upstream locality. The gonads (mean Pb 23.4, range 0.1-125.0 µg g −1 ; mean Cd 5.3, range 0.1-22.2 µg g −1) and carapace (mean Pb 23.4, range 0.7-327.6 µg g −1 ; mean Cd 4.0, range 0.4-18.5 µg g −1) contained the highest concentrations of both metals irrespective of season or locality. For both Pb and Cd significant differences (p < 0.05, Student's t-test) were found between the metal content of different organs. The gonads had the highest and the digestive glands the lowest concentrations of both heavy metals. Results indicated that anthropogenic activities did not influence sediment and water concentrations significantly. Smaller crabs accumulated more lead and cadmium than larger crabs with all crabs having significantly higher concentrations than both water and sediment. No significant differences in mean concentrations of lead and cadmium in whole crabs or organs were found between the two localities. Although body loads for both metals did not reflect prevailing environmental levels of these metals reliably, the crabs may still be used to monitor bioavailability over time.\n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Seasonal variation of selected metals in sediments, water and tissues of the groovy mullet, Liza dumerelii (Mugilidae) from the Mhlathuze Estuary, South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Mzimela, H., M.; Wepener, V.; and Cyrus, D., P.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n 2003.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"SeasonalPaper\n  \n \n\n \n \n doi\n  \n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@misc{\n title = {Seasonal variation of selected metals in sediments, water and tissues of the groovy mullet, Liza dumerelii (Mugilidae) from the Mhlathuze Estuary, South Africa},\n type = {misc},\n year = {2003},\n source = {Marine Pollution Bulletin},\n pages = {659-664},\n volume = {46},\n issue = {5},\n publisher = {Elsevier Ltd},\n id = {866f5427-b893-3d34-b02b-e1edcf618bfe},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:38.921Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:15.577Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {misc},\n author = {Mzimela, H. M. and Wepener, V. and Cyrus, D. P.},\n doi = {10.1016/S0025-326X(03)00088-2}\n}
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\n  \n 2001\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Selected mineral and heavy metal concentrations in blood and tissues of vultures in different regions of South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Van Wyk, E.; Van Der Bank, F., H.; Verdoorn, G., H.; and Hofmann, D.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report 2001.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"SelectedPaper\n  \n \n \n \"SelectedWebsite\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {Selected mineral and heavy metal concentrations in blood and tissues of vultures in different regions of South Africa},\n type = {techreport},\n year = {2001},\n source = {South African Journal of Animal Science},\n keywords = {African whitebacked,Cape griffon,Gyps coprotheres,Lappetfaced,Pseudogyps africanus,Torgos tracheliotos,Vultures,heavy metal #,mineral},\n pages = {31},\n issue = {2},\n websites = {http://www.sasas.co.za/Sajas.html57},\n id = {cf47f935-607d-313f-b7d9-3006886ecba3},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:40.065Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:16.681Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {Concentrations of eight essential elements (Ca, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni and Zn) and three toxic metals (Al, Pb and Sr) were measured in various tissue samples from African whitebacked (Pseudogyps africanus), Cape griffon (Gyps coprotheres) and Lappetfaced (Torgos tracheliotos) vultures in different regions of South Africa. Blood samples from live African whitebacked vultures were taken from nestlings from two breeding populations, adults from a wildlife reserve and immature birds held in captivity. With the exception of Sr and Mn, concentrations of the majority of metals differed between two or more of the sampling localities and between captive and wild individuals. Birds from Moholoholo had the highest overall blood metal concentrations, while concentrations in birds from Dronfield were the lowest, as can be expected for nestlings and adults respectively. Fatty tissues and bones had the highest values of metal accumulation, especially Sr, and this is congruent with results from previous studies. It was concluded that most concentrations compared well with those reported for other avian species, but concentrations of Cr, Ni and Pb in the dead vultures were generally above values characteristic of heavy metal poisoning. The values reported for each of two wild populations of P. africanus nestlings and adults, and for two other vulture species could serve as base-line data for future comparative studies.},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Van Wyk, E and Van Der Bank, F H and Verdoorn, G H and Hofmann, D}\n}
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\n Concentrations of eight essential elements (Ca, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni and Zn) and three toxic metals (Al, Pb and Sr) were measured in various tissue samples from African whitebacked (Pseudogyps africanus), Cape griffon (Gyps coprotheres) and Lappetfaced (Torgos tracheliotos) vultures in different regions of South Africa. Blood samples from live African whitebacked vultures were taken from nestlings from two breeding populations, adults from a wildlife reserve and immature birds held in captivity. With the exception of Sr and Mn, concentrations of the majority of metals differed between two or more of the sampling localities and between captive and wild individuals. Birds from Moholoholo had the highest overall blood metal concentrations, while concentrations in birds from Dronfield were the lowest, as can be expected for nestlings and adults respectively. Fatty tissues and bones had the highest values of metal accumulation, especially Sr, and this is congruent with results from previous studies. It was concluded that most concentrations compared well with those reported for other avian species, but concentrations of Cr, Ni and Pb in the dead vultures were generally above values characteristic of heavy metal poisoning. The values reported for each of two wild populations of P. africanus nestlings and adults, and for two other vulture species could serve as base-line data for future comparative studies.\n
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\n  \n 2000\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bioaccumulation of chromium, manganese, nickel and lead in the tissues of the moggel, Labeo umbratus (Cyprinidae), from Witbank Dam, Mpumalanga.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Nussey, G.; Van Vuren, J.; and Du Preez, H., H.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n . 2000.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"BioaccumulationPaper\n  \n \n \n \"BioaccumulationWebsite\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {Bioaccumulation of chromium, manganese, nickel and lead in the tissues of the moggel, Labeo umbratus (Cyprinidae), from Witbank Dam, Mpumalanga},\n type = {article},\n year = {2000},\n websites = {http://www.wrc.org.za},\n id = {1b3e8697-5b72-30fa-a6c4-f6e6459cb7c0},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:36.345Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:52:36.536Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {This paper focuses on the extent of Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb bioaccumulation in the different tissues of a cyprinid fish, namely the moggel (Labeo umbratus) from Witbank Dam in the Upper Olifants River catchment. The dependence of bioaccumulation on size, gender and seasons was specifically addressed. Bioaccumulation of Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb varied between the gills, liver, muscle and skin. The gills generally had the highest metal concentrations, due to their intimate contact with the environment and their importance as an effector of ionic and osmotic regulation. The liver, in its role as a storage and detoxification organ, can also accumulate high levels of metals. Muscles and skin accumulated much less metal concentrations. These two organs must be included in biomonitoring programmes because they are consumed by the general public. Accumulation of the metals decreased with an increase in fish length. Therefore, the smaller the fish the higher the body load of metals due to various bioaccumulation processes. The accumulation of Cr, Mn and Ni in the different tissues of male and female fish did not differ markedly. It is suggested that the male testes and female ovaries should also be compared, in order to obtain further data on the differences of accumulation of metals between males and females. The highest tissue concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb with the exception of the muscle and skin tissues, were recorded in the summer of 1995. The higher metal concentrations in the summer, compared to autumn and winter, can possibly be attributed to a varied water temperature.},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Nussey, G and Van Vuren, Jhj and Du Preez, H H}\n}
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\n This paper focuses on the extent of Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb bioaccumulation in the different tissues of a cyprinid fish, namely the moggel (Labeo umbratus) from Witbank Dam in the Upper Olifants River catchment. The dependence of bioaccumulation on size, gender and seasons was specifically addressed. Bioaccumulation of Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb varied between the gills, liver, muscle and skin. The gills generally had the highest metal concentrations, due to their intimate contact with the environment and their importance as an effector of ionic and osmotic regulation. The liver, in its role as a storage and detoxification organ, can also accumulate high levels of metals. Muscles and skin accumulated much less metal concentrations. These two organs must be included in biomonitoring programmes because they are consumed by the general public. Accumulation of the metals decreased with an increase in fish length. Therefore, the smaller the fish the higher the body load of metals due to various bioaccumulation processes. The accumulation of Cr, Mn and Ni in the different tissues of male and female fish did not differ markedly. It is suggested that the male testes and female ovaries should also be compared, in order to obtain further data on the differences of accumulation of metals between males and females. The highest tissue concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb with the exception of the muscle and skin tissues, were recorded in the summer of 1995. The higher metal concentrations in the summer, compared to autumn and winter, can possibly be attributed to a varied water temperature.\n
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\n  \n 1997\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead Toxicosis in a Captive Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Consequent to Ingestion of Air Gun Pellets.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Shlosberg, A.; Bellaiche, M.; Regev, S.; Gal, R.; Brlzzl, M.; Hanji,', V.; Zaidel, L.; and Nyska, A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 33(1): 135-139. 1997.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n \n \"LeadWebsite\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Lead Toxicosis in a Captive Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Consequent to Ingestion of Air Gun Pellets},\n type = {article},\n year = {1997},\n pages = {135-139},\n volume = {33},\n websites = {http://meridian.allenpress.com/jwd/article-pdf/33/1/135/2235441/0090-3558-33_1_135.pdf},\n id = {27d05081-82c4-3a2f-b13a-525d163e469d},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:15.507Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:19:45.459Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {A captive hottlelmose dolphin (Tur-siops tfliflcatUS)},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Shlosberg, Alan and Bellaiche, Michel and Regev, Sharon and Gal, Rivka and Brlzzl, Malka and Hanji,', Vera and Zaidel, Liliana and Nyska, Abraham},\n journal = {Journal of Wildlife Diseases},\n number = {1}\n}
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\n A captive hottlelmose dolphin (Tur-siops tfliflcatUS)\n
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\n  \n 1991\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bioaccumulation of metals by the southern mouthbrooder, Pseudocrenilabrus philander (Weber, 1897) from a mine-polluted impoundment.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n De Wet, L., M.; Schoonbee, H., J.; and Wiid, A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report 1991.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"BioaccumulationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n  \n \n abstract \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {Bioaccumulation of metals by the southern mouthbrooder, Pseudocrenilabrus philander (Weber, 1897) from a mine-polluted impoundment},\n type = {techreport},\n year = {1991},\n id = {205ea16a-c248-37ee-b25c-91194589889c},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:35.176Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:12.894Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n abstract = {The bioaccumulation of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni and Pb by the cichlid Pseudocrenilabrus philander from a mine-polluted impoundment in the Transvaal was investigated. With the exception of Fe, all the other metals were accumulated in higher concentrations in the tissues of the fish than those in the sediments of the lake, with the highest bioconcentration factor being 8.54 for Zn. Results also showed that there was an inverse relationship between metal concentration and body mass of the fish, with the smaller juvenile fish being better able to concentrate all the metals per equivalent body mass than was the case for the larger, adult fish. This phenomenon is linked to a superior bioregulation mechanism for metals by the larger older fish, as well as the relatively higher metabolic rate of the younger juvenile fish.},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {De Wet, L M and Schoonbee, H J and Wiid, Ajb}\n}
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\n The bioaccumulation of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni and Pb by the cichlid Pseudocrenilabrus philander from a mine-polluted impoundment in the Transvaal was investigated. With the exception of Fe, all the other metals were accumulated in higher concentrations in the tissues of the fish than those in the sediments of the lake, with the highest bioconcentration factor being 8.54 for Zn. Results also showed that there was an inverse relationship between metal concentration and body mass of the fish, with the smaller juvenile fish being better able to concentrate all the metals per equivalent body mass than was the case for the larger, adult fish. This phenomenon is linked to a superior bioregulation mechanism for metals by the larger older fish, as well as the relatively higher metabolic rate of the younger juvenile fish.\n
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\n  \n 1983\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accumunation of lead in bones of turtle doves.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Madoqua\n\n\n \n\n\n\n . 1983.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AccumunationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@article{\n title = {Accumunation of lead in bones of turtle doves},\n type = {article},\n year = {1983},\n id = {90806f0a-7b7f-3242-b246-153ab8543bb6},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:34.354Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:12.478Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Madoqua, undefined}\n}
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\n  \n 1972\n \n \n (1)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n LEAD CONCENTRATIONS IN THE BONES OF CITY AND COUNTRY DOVES.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Siegfried, W., R.; Frost1, P., G., H.; Redelinghuys, E., P.; and Van Der Merwe3, R., P.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n South African Journal of Animal Science, 68(9): 229-230. 1972.\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LEADPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@article{\n title = {LEAD CONCENTRATIONS IN THE BONES OF CITY AND COUNTRY DOVES},\n type = {article},\n year = {1972},\n pages = {229-230},\n volume = {68},\n id = {a81b86fc-af8d-36e9-98c3-5574647b27ee},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:28.465Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:13:57.734Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {article},\n author = {Siegfried, W R and Frost1, P G H and Redelinghuys, E P and Van Der Merwe3, R P},\n journal = {South African Journal of Animal Science},\n number = {9}\n}
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\n  \n undefined\n \n \n (2)\n \n \n
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lead Lead detection in detection in large large diurnal diurnal raptors raptors.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Bassi, E.; Ferloni, M.; and Bianchi, A.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report .\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"LeadPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
\n
@techreport{\n title = {Lead Lead detection in detection in large large diurnal diurnal raptors raptors},\n type = {techreport},\n id = {94ef9f83-4fb4-30cd-8a1b-de7d50603f31},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:20.808Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T15:08:31.470Z},\n read = {true},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Bassi, Enrico and Ferloni, Maria and Bianchi, Alessandro}\n}
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\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accumulation of lead and manganese in soil along the N1 highway in the City of Cape Town after the banning of leaded petrol in South Africa.\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n Fon Mbakwa, E.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n Technical Report .\n \n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n \n \n \"AccumulationPaper\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n link\n  \n \n\n bibtex\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n \n \n\n\n\n
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@techreport{\n title = {Accumulation of lead and manganese in soil along the N1 highway in the City of Cape Town after the banning of leaded petrol in South Africa},\n type = {techreport},\n id = {159ac51e-7bb1-31f6-b10f-a1877cfa7aff},\n created = {2026-03-25T14:45:49.367Z},\n file_attached = {true},\n profile_id = {888a38c0-e491-33b5-8ffc-688923d88fd5},\n group_id = {9748df95-b01e-3609-a26c-1c751ea7fa9a},\n last_modified = {2026-03-25T14:46:22.276Z},\n read = {false},\n starred = {false},\n authored = {false},\n confirmed = {false},\n hidden = {false},\n private_publication = {false},\n bibtype = {techreport},\n author = {Fon Mbakwa, Emmanuel}\n}
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