Use of nondestructive biomarkers and residues analysis to assess the health status of endangered species of pinnipeds in the south-west Atlantic

Total porphyrins, EROD, PROD, BROD, organochlorines, PAHs and total Hg were determined in specific organs and tissues of pinnipeds collected from the southwest Atlantic. The results confirm the existence of metabolic imbalance between high toxifying and low detoxifying potential in pinnipeds, as reported in other marine mammals. The non destructive biomarker approach based on the analysis of metabolic responses (porphyrins) and residues (DDTs, PCBs, PAHs and Hg) in non-invasive samples (excreta and fur) appear to be a useful tool for the hazard assessment of endangered species.