Common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) are marine sentinels due to their trophic position, longevity, and ability to bioaccumulate pollutants. This study assessed legacy (PCBs, DDT) and emerging (PFAS) contaminants in stranded dolphins along Ireland’s coast to inform monitoring strategies.
PFAS concentrations were analyzed in hepatic and blubber tissue samples (n = 12, 2019). All 32 targeted congeners were detected, with PFOS and PFOSA most abundant. Hepatic ∑PFAS6 concentrations were higher and more variable than in blubber, confirming liver as the optimal matrix. Trends related to age, sex, and sexual maturity suggest differing bioaccumulation dynamics.
PCBs and p,p’-DDE concentrations were analyzed in blubber tissue samples (n = 43, 2001–2019). ∑PCB levels exceeded toxicity thresholds in two individuals. Maternal offloading was evident for ICES7 PCBs but not p,p’-DDE. Sex and maturity significantly influenced concentrations, with age, nutritional status, and season having lesser effects.
Integrated analysis of 2019 samples found minimal correlation between PFAS and legacy pollutants within and across tissues, except for PFOS. These differences likely reflect physicochemical properties influencing accumulation such as binding affinity.
Findings reinforce D. delphis as indicator species and highlight the need for new and continued efforts to abate persistent organic pollutants in marine ecosystems.
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