Review of effects of water pollution on the breeding success of waterbirds, with particular reference to ardeids in Hong Kong

S. B. De Luca-Abbott, B. S.F. Wong, D. B. Peakall, P. K.S. Lam, L. Young, M. H.W. Lam, B. J. Richardson

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

55 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Predatory waterbirds, such as ardeids, are susceptible to bioaccumulation of pollutants through the ingestion of contaminated food sources. High body burdens of contaminants, including PCBs, PAHs, cadmium, mercury, lead, copper, zinc and arsenic have been detected in many bird species worldwide. There is a paucity of literature, however, linking contaminant body burden and effects on reproductive success in waterbirds. This review is a synthesis of pertinent literature on this topic, with specific reference to contaminant residues in various tissue types, relationship between body burden and reproductive success, and the use of biomarkers to predict more serious adverse affects. The impetus for this review was the development of a conservation strategy and management plan (commissioned by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR)) for an important wetland in Hong Kong that supports many threatened waterbirds, including ardeids.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)327-349
Number of pages23
JournalEcotoxicology
Volume10
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Ardeids
  • Breeding success
  • Contaminants
  • Effects
  • Hong Kong

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