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Effects of chronic copper exposure on development and survival in the southern leopard frog (Lithobates [Rana] sphenocephalus).

Authors :
Lance SL
Erickson MR
Flynn RW
Mills GL
Tuberville TD
Scott DE
Source :
Environmental toxicology and chemistry [Environ Toxicol Chem] 2012 Jul; Vol. 31 (7), pp. 1587-94. Date of Electronic Publication: 2012 May 18.
Publication Year :
2012

Abstract

Exposure to environmental contaminants contributes to the global decline of amphibian populations. The impacts of organic contaminants on amphibians are well documented. However, substantially less is known concerning the potential effects of metals on amphibian populations. Copper (Cu) is an essential element, but it can be toxic at concentrations only slightly higher than the normal physiological range. The present study examines the effects of chronic Cu exposure on embryos and larvae of southern leopard frogs, Lithobates (Rana) sphenocephalus. Groups of eggs from multiple clutches were collected from two wetlands and exposed to a range of Cu concentrations (0-150 µg/L) until they reached the free-swimming stage, and then individual larvae were reared to metamorphosis. Higher Cu concentrations significantly reduced embryo survival to the free-swimming stage but did not further reduce survival to metamorphosis. Larval period was affected by Cu treatment, but the clutch from which larvae originated (i.e., parentage) explained a higher proportion of the variation. Embryo survival to hatching varied significantly among clutches, ranging from 42.9 to 79.2%. Measurable levels of Cu were found in larvae with body burdens up to 595 µg Cu/g dry mass in the 100 µg/L treatment, and larval Cu body burdens were higher than in metamorphs. The present study also demonstrated that higher initial egg density ameliorated embryo mortality at higher Cu levels and should be accounted for in future studies.<br /> (Copyright © 2012 SETAC.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1552-8618
Volume :
31
Issue :
7
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Environmental toxicology and chemistry
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
22511547
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.1849