Trace element residues in tissues of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) from South China Waters
Abstract
Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) are threatened throughout many parts of their natural range (McGilvrary and Geermans, 1997), and are listed in Appendix I of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Due to their high conservation status, there is increasing interest in this endangered species throughout the world. Several recent reports have documented a decline in sea turtle populations, which has been attributed to pollution, including marine debris, tar balls and plastics (Gramentz, 1988; Tomas et al., 2002), and toxic contaminants, including trace elements and heavy metals (Godley et al., 1999; Gordon et al., 1998; Sakai et al., 2000). Chemical residues in sea turtle tissues have been a global concern (Anan et al., 2001; Caurant et al., 1999; Kenyon et al., 2001; Nagle et al., 2001; Storelli and Marcotrigiano, 2003) and there is a need for monitoring the level of exposure to chemical pollutants in an effort to conserve these animals.
- Publication:
-
Marine Pollution Bulletin
- Pub Date:
- 2004
- DOI:
- 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2003.09.003
- Bibcode:
- 2004MarPB..48..174L