A comparative analysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and polychlorinated biphenyls in Southern sea otters that died of infectious diseases and noninfectious causes.

摘要: Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) from the California coast continue to exhibit a slower population regrowth rate than in Alaska. Infectious diseases have been identified as frequent cause of death. caused by varied pathogens including bacteria, fungi, and parasites were suggestive compromised immunological health mature animals this population. To test hypothesis that elevated exposure immunotoxic contaminants such polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) contribute disease susceptibility via immunosuppression, we determined concentrations PBDEs PCBs livers 80 adult female died infectious diseases, noninfectious causes, or emaciation. Concentrations otter widely (10–26,800 ng/g 81–210,000 ng/g, lipid weight, respectively). some highest values reported for marine mammals so far. Although PCB declined during 1992–2002, mean concentration was at threshold which adverse effects are elicited. significantly correlated, suggesting co-exposure these otters. No significant association found between status higher category category, an