TEST

Determination of mercury in eggs, plasma and its effect on the clutch of Lepidochelys kempii in Veracruz,
Mexico.

Ricardo Torres 3-751-1515

Lepidochelys kempii, commonly known as Kemp's ridley turtle, is a critically endangered species that is
particularly susceptible to mercury contamination. Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can have adverse
effects on embryonic development, hatchling size, and survival. In this essay, we will explore the sources
of mercury contamination in the environment, the bioaccumulation of mercury in sea turtles, and the
impact of mercury on hatchling health. We will also discuss mitigation strategies to reduce mercury
pollution in sea turtles.

Mercury pollution in the environment comes from natural and anthropogenic sources. Natural sources
include volcanic activity and rock erosion, while anthropogenic sources include coal-fired power plants,
mining, and waste incineration. Once released into the environment, mercury can accumulate in the
food chain and higher concentrations are found in top predators such as sea turtles. Bioaccumulation of
mercury in sea turtles occurs through consumption of contaminated prey such as fish and crustaceans.
To determine mercury contamination levels in sea turtles, researchers collect and analyze eggs and
plasma. Egg samples are collected because they provide a record of maternal exposure to contaminants,
while plasma samples are collected to assess the current body burden of contaminants. Analysis of these
samples has shown that Kemp's ridley sea turtles are highly contaminated with mercury, with levels
exceeding safe thresholds for wildlife and human consumption.

Mercury has been shown to have a significant impact on the health of sea turtle hatchlings. Exposure to
mercury during embryonic development can lead to deformities, reduced hatchling size and decreased
survival rates. In addition, mercury can affect hatchling behavior, making them more vulnerable to
predation and less able to navigate to the ocean. Long-term exposure to mercury can also have impacts
on health and population dynamics. Reduced clutch size, decreased hatchling survival rates, and altered
behavior can contribute to population declines. This is of particular concern for Kemp's ridley sea turtles,
which are already critically endangered.

To mitigate mercury contamination in sea turtles, it is necessary to reduce the sources of contamination
in the environment. This can be achieved by monitoring and regulating mercury emissions from
industrial activities, as well as developing alternative fishing practices that reduce the use of mercury-
containing fishing gear. Efforts to reduce plastic pollution and habitat degradation can also help reduce
mercury levels in the environment. In addition to these strategies, it is important to monitor mercury
levels in sea turtles and their prey to track changes over time. This can help inform management
decisions and ensure that mitigation efforts are effective. By working to reduce mercury pollution in sea
turtles, we can help ensure the survival of this critically endangered species.

Mercury contamination is a major threat to the health and survival of olive ridley sea turtles. Through
egg and plasma analysis, we have found that these turtles are highly contaminated with mercury, with
levels exceeding safety thresholds.
The determination of mercury levels in eggs and plasma of Lepidochelys kempii and its effect on the nest
is an important research topic in Veracruz, Mexico. Mercury is an environmental contaminant that can
affect the health of sea turtles and their reproductive capacity.

To determine mercury levels in eggs and plasma of L. kempii, different analytical techniques can be used,
such as atomic absorption spectrometry or mass spectrometry. These techniques allow measuring
mercury concentration in biological samples with high precision and sensitivity.

Once mercury levels in eggs and plasma have been determined, it is important to evaluate their effect on
the L. kempii brood. Studies can be conducted to analyze the reproductive success of turtles exposed to
different levels of mercury compared to non-exposed turtles. Histological analyses can also be
performed to assess egg quality and embryonic development of turtles exposed to mercury.

The results of these studies can provide valuable information for understanding the effects of mercury
on sea turtle health and reproduction, and for implementing effective conservation and management
measures to protect these vulnerable species.