Hollings Marine Laboratory has stated that, in tests of urbanized waters, Bottle Nose Dolphins and Beluga Whales who are at the top of their food web have had chemical pollutants in their body. Environmental Science and Technology research team looked at the levels of pollutants found in male dolphins along the east coast. Levels of PFC’s (Perflourinated Compounds) have been high in Beluga Whales along the Alaskan Coast. Data gathered in both studies are expected to serve for future research to retrieve the health effects and impacts of these pollutants on the two species.
These chemicals are human made chemicals that spread globally through water and air. These can cause immune and endocrine effects on wildlife and humans. To test for these chemicals in bottle nose dolphins, researchers collect and examine blubber biopsy samples along the East Coast waters. For the Beluga Whales the researchers studied the liver of the whales. All of the Beluga livers had PFC’s in them which was a bad sign of their living conditions.
The testing of these animals will only lead to future safety of endangered species. As well, the testing will provide answers for testing of other animals in the future. With these chemicals increasing in area, the testing is needed and must be done for a solution to this problem.
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