Birds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Avian and Poultry Biology Reviews
6771_Albers.pdf
By: P.H. Albers
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Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are present throughout the global environment and are produced naturally and by activities of humans. Effects of PAH on birds have been determined by studies employing egg injection, egg immersion, egg shell application, single and multiple oral doses, subcutaneous injection, and chemical analysis of field-collected eggs and tissue. The four-to six-ring aromatic compounds are the most toxic to embryos, young birds, and adult birds. For embryos, effects include death, developmental abnormalities, and a variety of cellular and biochemical responses. For adult and young birds, effects include reduced egg production and hatching, increased clutch or brood abandonment, reduced growth, increased organweights, and a variety of biochemical responses. Trophic level accumulation is unlikely. Environmental exposure to PAH in areas of high human population or habitats affected by recent petroleum spills might be sufficient to adversely affect reproduction. Evidence of long-term effects of elevated concentrations of environmental PAH on bird populations is very limited and the mechanisms of effect are unclear.
Suggested Citation
Albers, P., 2006, Birds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: Avian and Poultry Biology Reviews, v. 17, no. 4, p. 125-140.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Birds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons |
| Series title | Avian and Poultry Biology Reviews |
| Volume | 17 |
| Issue | 4 |
| Year Published | 2006 |
| Language | English |
| Contributing office(s) | Patuxent Wildlife Research Center |
| Description | 125-140 |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Avian and Poultry Biology Reviews |
| First page | 125 |
| Last page | 140 |