Toxic and biogenic elements in the organs and tissues of the willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus L., 1758) in the north of the Krasnoyarsk Region (review)

Studying the concentration of biogenic and toxic microelements in the body tissues of wild animals is relevant for organizing regional environmental monitoring, assessing the state of populations and ensuring the safety of meat and wild products. The studies were carried out to determine the content of biogenic and toxic elements in the organs and tissues of the willow ptarmigan in the north of the Krasnoyarsk Region, Russia, where different levels of technogenic pollution are expected. The iron, copper, nickel, lead, and cadmium content in the pectoral muscles and liver of willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus L.) (n=162), bagged during five hunting seasons in 2005–2019, were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. The levels of lead, cadmium and iron in the tissues were significantly higher in contaminated areas, while the copper levels did not differ. Element concentrations in liver and skeletal muscle in impact areas were highly correlated with each other. This may be related to common sources of pollutant emissions. Sex differences in micronutrient content can be determined by spatial differentiation of the sexes during migration, seasonal feeding patterns, and the specific birds’ metabolism in reproductive period. Cadmium and lead content in liver and muscle tissue samples from impact areas exceeded current food hygiene standards, which may pose a threat to consumers. Probably, high levels of lead and cadmium reflect the increased content of metals in food items primarily willow sprouts and buds, which are the most important winter food for ptarmigan.