Investigating the Presence and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) in Alaskan Oncorhynchus keta and Oncorhynchus kisutch

Investigating the Presence and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) in Alaskan Oncorhynchus keta and Oncorhynchus kisutch

Alvin Sherman Library

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are chemical substances that resist degradation and have a range of adverse effects that have been linked to detrimental health issues in both humans and wildlife. Their introduction into the environment stems from the extensive usage of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) for industrial and agricultural purposes. While their use was banned during the Stockholm Convention in 2004, their presence persists. Since 209 different congeners exist for both PCBs and PBDEs, the primary aim of this project is to identify the types and concentrations of POPs present in Chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) and Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) sourced from Alaskan rivers Bullion Creek, Sheep Creek, and Salmon River. The study's secondary aim will focus on a comparative analysis looking to identify a relationship between geographic location and POP concentration levels for each species. The following methodology was utilized; samples of muscle tissue were dried, then prepared for POP extraction through acid digestion and liquid-liquid organic solvent extraction methods. Samples were then put through solid phase extraction columns to dry and concentrate organic layers. Samples were tested in duplicates and analyzed for lipid content. Finally, the prepared samples were analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Collected GC-MS data allows for establishing potential trends comparing the two species and the differing locations to determine whether a correlation exists. These findings will further contribute to the understanding of the extent of POP bioaccumulation in different regions, and their far reaching effects on human and animal health.