Effects of environmental contaminants on reptiles: A review
Special Scientific Report - Wildlife
228
2370_Hall.pdf
By: R.J. Hall
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Abstract
The literature relating to the effects of environmental contaminants on reptiles is reviewed and certain generalizations based on studies of other kinds of vertebrates are presented. Reports of reptilian mortality from pesticide applications are numerous enough to establish the sensitivity of reptiles to these materials. Reports of residue analyses demonstrate the ability of reptiles to accumulate various contaminants. but the significance of the residues to reptilian populations is unknown. A few authors have reported the distribution of residues in reptilian tissues; others have investigated uptake or loss rates. Physiological studies have shown that organochlorines may inhibit enzymes involved in active transport and have correlated the activity of potential detoxifying enzymes with residue levels. There is some suggestion that pesticide residues may interfere with reproduction in oviparous snakes. Needs for future research are discussed.
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Federal Government Series |
| Title | Effects of environmental contaminants on reptiles: A review |
| Series title | Special Scientific Report - Wildlife |
| Series number | 228 |
| Year Published | 1980 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Contributing office(s) | Patuxent Wildlife Research Center |
| Description | 12 |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |