Journal article
First report of accumulation of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in New South Wales, Australia
Environmental science and pollution research, Vol.31(38), pp.51037-51042
2024
Abstract
The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a semi-aquatic monotreme that occupies a high trophic position in the freshwater ecosystems of eastern mainland Australia and Tasmania. Platypuses are continuously exposed to anthropogenic contaminants including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). This study examined PFOS concentrations in the livers of deceased platypuses (eight wild; one captive) that were opportunistically collected across NSW over a two- and a half-year period. There was a large variation in PFOS concentrations, ranging from < 1 µg/kg to 1200 µg/kg. This study presents the first report of PFOS contamination in platypuses, revealing their PFOS levels are broadly similar to those found in river otters (Lutra canadensis) and lower than those in American mink (Mustela vison), both which occupy similar ecological niches in freshwater systems. This study raises concerns about the impact of PFOS on platypus health.
Details
- Title
- First report of accumulation of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in New South Wales, Australia
- Authors/Creators
- Katherine G. WarwickIan A. WrightJessica Whinfield - Taronga Conservation Society AustraliaJason K. ReynoldsMichelle M. Ryan
- Publication Details
- Environmental science and pollution research, Vol.31(38), pp.51037-51042
- Publisher
- Springer Nature
- Identifiers
- 991005695569007891
- Copyright
- © 2024 Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Harry Butler Institute
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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