Organochlorine concentrations, reproductive physiology, and immune function in unique populations of freshwater Atlantic stingrays (Dasyatis sabina) from Florida’s St. Johns River

摘要: Abstract Within the past decade, reproductive and health disorders have been reported to occur in unique populations of Atlantic stingrays (Dasyatis sabina) inhabiting certain components Florida’s St. Johns River. Since these irregularities are consistent with alleged effects organochlorine (OC) contaminant exposure other Florida wildlife, goal this study was examine possible associations between OC concentrations reproduction and/or immune function from river system. Liver 30 pesticides/pesticide metabolites total polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured compared D. sabina collected four central lakes River: Lake George, Harney, Jesup, Monroe. Reproductive biology, serum testosterone 17β-estradiol concentrations, circulating white blood cell counts examined that determined contain low (Lake George), intermediate Monroe), high Jesup) levels pesticide contamination, based on results liver assessments. Successful breeding occurred Jesup stingrays, indicating degree accumulation animals is not enough cause impairment. However, elevated steroid observed suggesting endocrine may be altered due other, as yet unknown, ecological factors. Inconsistencies success Monroe observed, confirming earlier reports complications sub-population. Based findings, previous occurrences failure River environmental factors than exposure.