FRESHWATER-SALTWATER FRONTIERS: TAXON-SPECIFIC BIOACCUMULATION OF POLYFLUOROALKYL-SUBSTANCES IN ESTUARINE ZOOPLANKTON OFF THE CAPE FEAR REGION, NC

Rivers discharging into the ocean can be vectors for the transport of contaminants accumulated from large basins. Such contaminants include Polyfluoroalkyl-Substances (PFAS), whose strong and stable carbon-fluorine bonds, can have lasting effects on aquatic natural ecosystems where research is limited in planktonic biota. To understand the drivers of accumulation of these chemicals, we are investigating the potential bioaccumulation of PFAS in zooplankton functional groups off the Cape Fear River. To test for PFAS bioaccumulation, we collected concurrent samples of zooplankton biomass and water samples. We hypothesize higher concentrations in benthic versus pelagic groups due to differential exposure. River-exposed species are expected to have higher concentrations than oceanic ones, reflecting sources. We expect differences in concentrations between distinct trophic functional groups. Preliminary data identified significant concentrations of PFAS compounds in zooplankton biomass but not in the aqueous phase, suggesting bioaccumulation in zooplankton. The main compounds detected in zooplankton biomass samples were PFBA, PFHxA, PFOA, PFHpA, PFDA, and PFOS. Average concentrations were highest for PFHxA (143 ng/g), PFBA (98 ng/g), and PFOA (54 ng/g). Understanding the spatial (river, estuary, coastal and offshore) variability of contaminants will allow us to understand bioaccumulation patterns in different zooplankton functional groups especially where hydrographic regimes changes are expected to exert significant pressure on planktonic assemblages due to global change. 

Presentation Preference: Oral

Primary Presenter: Gena Leib, University of North Carolina Wilmington (gml5089@uncw.edu)

Authors:

Christian Briseño-Avena, University of North Carolina Wilmington  (brisenoavenac@uncw.edu)

Ralph Mead, University of North Carolina Wilmington  (meadr@uncw.edu)