Using terrestrial mammalian carnivores for global contaminant monitoring

Learned Discourse: Timely Scientific Opinions

“…When studying persistent contaminants, a sentinel should also have a high trophic position in the food chain because some organic contaminants may reach higher concentration through biomagnification processes. Jooste et al (2014) suggested terrestrial mammalian carnivores may be particularly useful as sentinels. Specifically, they proposed using similar or related species to allow for comparative global contaminant monitoring, for example, felid species such as caracals (Caracal caracal) in southern Africa and bobcats (Lynx rufus) in North America.…”

“…First, Jooste et al (2014) briefly mention that sentinels should have similar physiological systems. We would like to extend that statement and argue that physiology is the single most important factor to consider when selecting a sentinel species.…”

“…Second, although Jooste et al (2014) emphasized the importance of adequate sample size through sustainable collection methods, they failed to highlight the important influence of gender and age distribution during sampling. It is widely known that organic contaminants can be offloaded to young during lactation, causing juvenile animals of a certain age to have elevated contaminant loads and lactating females to have temporarily lower loads.…”

Is the ideal sentinel a unicorn?

“…Jooste et al () suggested terrestrial mammalian carnivores may be particularly useful as sentinels. Specifically, they proposed using similar or related species to allow for comparative global contaminant monitoring, for example, felid species such as caracals ( Caracal caracal ) in southern Africa and bobcats ( Lynx rufus ) in North America.…”

“…First, Jooste et al () briefly mention that sentinels should have similar physiological systems. We would like to extend that statement and argue that physiology is the single most important factor to consider when selecting a sentinel species.…”