Toxic Element Discovered in Chelydra serpentina Enables Biologists to Develop New Strategies
Who would have thought that a toenail would reveal such important information about the ecosystem? A New York lake is the focus of this intriguing study. After collecting toenail samples from Chelydra serpentina in Onondaga Lake, scientists discovered that the turtles contained surprisingly high levels of mercury, sixteen times more concentrated than another recent study in a neighboring marsh. Due to the fact that these Chelydra possess a high resistance to the Mercury element, they are not affected as detrimentally as other species of reptiles andd amphibians, as well as birds and mammals. This toxin could be the reason why the lake has suffered a lower population of wildlife in the recent years, although environmental factors are likely also coming into play. Approximately ten studies have been conducted in the past nine years, and scientists are continuing to research and use their data to pinpoint the longterm effects of industrial pollution on these vital ecosystems.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
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UK: Authorities take action to push forward conservation strategies
Biology
USA: How did this Macrochelys temminckii appear in Center Hill Lake?
Crime & Punishment
Asia: Smuggler intercepted with rare turtles
Education
USA: Park promotes awareness on World Turtle Day
Asia: Local government raises sea turtle awareness
Health & Medical
CA: Snapper finally released after 10 month rehabilitation
Did You Know…
Hatchling chelonians live off their yolk sack for several weeks after hatching.
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Photo from Michael Greenlar .
