Heavy metals and some other elements in the teeth of the tatra marmot (Marmota marmota latirostris)

  • M. Angelovičová Institute of High Mountain Biology, University of Žilina, SK - 059 56 Tatranská Javorina 7, Slovac Republic
  • M. Janiga Institute of High Mountain Biology, University of Žilina, SK - 059 56 Tatranská Javorina 7, Slovac Republic
Keywords: tatra marmot, XRF spectrometry, heavy metals, teeth, skeletal bone

Abstract

In this study we examined element composition and accumulation in the teeth and skull bones of the tatra marmot. In total, 88 bones of the tatra marmot were examined. We found differences in the levels of Pb, K, Ca. Zn, Sr, Cl and S between teeth and skull bones of marmots. The accumulation of some elements depended on the age of the animals. Elements including Zn, Ca, Sr, K, Mn, Pb, Cl and S accumulated to a greater extent in molars and skull bones than in incisors. The toxic elements, mercury and cadmium were not found in the bones by XRF spectrometry. Lead was detected in 34 percent of samples.
Published
2017-12-01
How to Cite
Angelovičová, M., & Janiga, M. (2017). Heavy metals and some other elements in the teeth of the tatra marmot (Marmota marmota latirostris). Oecologia Montana, 26(2), 34-41. Retrieved from http://om.vuvb.uniza.sk/index.php/OM/article/view/299
Section
Standard articles