Mercury in pilot whales: possible limits to the detoxification process

摘要: The ability of pilot whales (Globicephala melas) to concentrate cadmium and mercury is well established. levels these metals were generally higher than those encountered in other species marine mammals. biological data have not revealed a major toxic problem the population, this suggests remarkable tolerance heavy metals. Cellular distribution was carried out liver samples. presence metallothionein-like proteins soluble fraction has been demonstrated, but 95% mainly bound insoluble fraction, showing that had no role metal detoxification. molar ratio between selenium mechanism detoxification through formation complex Hg-Se which leads demethylation mercury. site process appeared as inorganic, whereas muscle percentage organic total much higher. Nevertheless, limited lactating females all individuals one school. This could be result changes diet constitute toxicological risk for species.