Different trophodynamics between two proximate estuaries with differing degrees of pollution

Mangroves are complex ecosystems with widely varying abiotic factors such as salinity, pH, redox potential, sub-stratumparticle size, dissolved organic matter and xenobiotic concentrations, and a high biodiversity. This paper presents the trophodynamic pathways of accumulation and transfer ofmetals and metalloids (B, Al, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ag, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Pb and Hg), in three trophic chains (plant-crab-fish, plankton-shrimp-fish and plankton-oyster) of similar food webs, corresponding to two mangrove estuaries (Santa Cruz and Vitoria Bay, separated by 70 km) in the Espirito Santo State (Brazil). Although the trophic transfer patterns are affected by physical variables, metal and metalloids were found in all trophic levels. We observed similar trophodynamics between both estuaries with some elements, but unequal transfer patterns in other cases, thus questioning the effectiveness of N-15 to determine the food chain when the aquatic biota is affected by anthropogenic contaminants. Thus, in the Santa Cruz estuary, most metals were biomagnified through the food web. Conversely, Vitoria Bay presented mostly biodilution, suggesting that metal/metalloid transference patterns in mangrove ecosystems may be affected by different anthropogenic contamination inputs. These results indicate the importance of knowing the complete food web when evaluating the trophic transfer of elements, including an evaluation of the differential impact of pollution on diverse components of the food chain. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study found that different mangrove ecosystems may have varying metal and metalloid transfer patterns, potentially influenced by anthropogenic contamination inputs. By evaluating the complete food web, including assessing the differential impact of pollution on diverse components of the food chain, a better understanding of the trophic transfer of elements can be achieved.