Environmental factors influencing bioaccumulation of xenobiotic metals in freshwater turtles

Darien N. Becker; Donald J. Brown; Jason A. Hubbart; James T. Anderson

doi:10.1080/26395940.2025.2474007

Treesearch

Environmental factors influencing bioaccumulation of xenobiotic metals in freshwater turtles

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Darien N. Becker, Donald J. Brown, Jason A. Hubbart, James T. Anderson

Year:

2025

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Pacific Northwest Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1080/26395940.2025.2474007

Source:

Environmental Pollutants and Bioavailability. 37(1): 2474007.

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Abstract

Human-induced land use practices can result in the bioaccumulation of metals in turtles. We assessed relationships between land use and pollutant concentrations in painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) and snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) through non-destructive tissue sampling across 22 sites within a mixed-use watershed in north-central West Virginia, U.S.A.. Metal concentrations were consistently higher in nails than in blood. Selenium levels in soil and turtle nails were positively correlated with proximity to mine land. Lead levels in turtle nails were positively correlated with Pb concentrations in soil. All samples had Hg levels that exceeded consumption limits set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Keywords

Acid mine drainage, snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina), painted turtle (Chrysemys picta), methylmercury, wetland

Citation

Becker, Darien N.; Brown, Donald J.; Hubbart, Jason A.; Anderson, James T. 2025. Environmental factors influencing bioaccumulation of xenobiotic metals in freshwater turtles. Environmental Pollutants and Bioavailability. 37(1): 2474007. https://doi.org/10.1080/26395940.2025.2474007.