Barbary sheep tissues as bioindicators of radionuclide and stabile element contamination in Croatia: exposure assessment for consumers.

摘要: Muscle, liver and kidney of 21 Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) from Mosor Mountain, Croatia, were sampled to quantify the activity caesium potassium radionuclides five toxic ten essential stabile elements in order establish reference values for this species evaluate potential tissues reflect environmental pollution. We also assessed seasonal diet (botanical composition dry matter content) based on analyses a rumen content culled animals. None 19 plant (mostly grasses) identified as part is known element or radionuclide hyperaccumulator. Measured levels reflected low pollution with arsenic, cadmium, mercury lead, generally less than those reported wild herbivorous ungulates. Methodological differences (detection limit muscle) shown hamper interpretation comparison Toxic Contamination Index (TCI) published other species. There was no homeostasis disturbance trace sheep, either due inadequate intake via food an adverse effect high metal(loid) burden. Consumption muscle can be considered safe health adult consumers regarding metal(loid)s radioactive caesium, though should avoided item vulnerable population groups possible effects cadmium lead. Otherwise, are rich source copper, iron, selenium zinc and, such, benefit overall dietary elements.