Spatial and temporal trends of contaminants in terrestrial biota from the Canadian Arctic.

摘要: Contaminants in the Canadian Arctic have been studied over last twelve years under guidance of Northern Program. This paper summarizes results from that program 1998 to 2003 with respect terrestrial animals Arctic. The arctic environment has few significant contaminant issues, particularly when compared freshwater and marine environments. Both current historical industrial activities north may a continuing effect on biota immediate area, but effects tend be localized. An investigation ground squirrels at site Northwest Territories had historically received applications DDT concluded livers was result contamination this is an indication local point source DDT. Arsenic concentrations were higher berries collected areas around gold mines than control sites, suggesting mining significantly affect arsenic levels Yellowknives Dene traditional territory. Although moose caribou generally carry relatively low burdens, Yukon high renal selenium concentrations, some woodland same area cadmium levels, which put risk toxicological effects. Low hepatic copper herds indicate shortage for metabolic demands, females. Similarities patterns temporal fluctuations element suggest environmental factors major cause elements. Concentrations persistent organochlorines metals beaver muskrat Territories, carnivores across very considered normal wildlife. Two new classes fluorinated contaminants, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) found most abundant fox least mink. trace king common eider ducks not concern, number nematode parasites eiders positively correlated total organic mercury concentrations. Future research should focus caribou, emerging effort sample annually where possible explore role naturally occurring cycles apparent trends.