Tracking Contaminant Transport From Biovectors

Abstract

We investigated contaminant transport and accumulation into ecosystems via migrating and invasive organisms. This review examines contaminant bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the context of physico-chemical properties of pollutants, the ecology, life cycles, and behavioural aspects of the carrier organisms (i.e. biovectors). Lake sediment profiles can provide an important historical archive for biovectors, such as the accumulation of metals and persistent organic pollutants, because these sediment profiles may be influenced by biological inputs (including fish carcases, animal waste, and other biological materials). Future research priorities are recommended based on the knowledge gaps identified. This chapter aims to provide science-based information for environmental scientists and regulators for the development of new coordinated research strategies, monitoring and research programs as well as international regulations for the mitigation of hazardous effects of anthropogenic pollutants.