Numéro |
J. Phys. IV France
Volume 107, May 2003
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Page(s) | 1235 - 1138 | |
DOI | https://doi.org/10.1051/jp4:20030524 |
J. Phys. IV France 107 (2003) 1235
DOI: 10.1051/jp4:20030524
Possible lin between elevated accumulation of trace elements and canine distemper virus infection in the Caspian seals (Phoca caspica ) stranded in 2000 and 2001
T. Shinsuke, K. Takashi, A. Yasumi, I. Tokutaka and K. ReijiCenter for Marine Environmentai Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Tarumi 3-5-7, Matsuyama 790-8566, Japan
Abstract
In the Caspian Sea, a die-off of thousands of Caspian seals (Phoca caspica) occurred in 1997 and 2000. While a direct cause for these deaths seems to be canine distemper virus (CDV) infection, immunosuppression
due to
environmental pollutants is considered as one of the possible explanations for the development of the disease. The
purpose of this work is to examine whether exposure to trace metals could be one of the factors involved in the mass
mortality of Caspian seals. Concentrations of 13 trace elements weredetermined in liver, kidney and muscle of Caspian
seals found stranded along the coasts of the Caspian Sea in 2000 and 2001. Concentrations of toxic elemen ts (Ag, Cd, Hg,
Tl and Pb) in the Caspian seals collected in 2000 and 2001 were comparable to or lower than those in healthy
Caspian seals collected in 1993 and 1998 and in seals from other regions, suggesting that these elements would not be the
causative agent for the death of Caspian seals. In contrast, Zn and Fe concentrations in the stranded Caspian seals were
apparently higher than those in seals from other locations. These results suggest the disturbance in homeostatic control
and nutritional statu s of essential elements in the stranded Caspian seals.
© EDP Sciences 2003