Discovering the Effects of Contamination on Elasmobranchs: Quantification of Metallic Elements and Evaluation of the Impact on the Health of Hammerhammer Sharks (Sphyrna zygaena) and Stingrays (Hypanus guttatus) Through Biomarker Analysis

• Grant number: 25/04257-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Toxicological Analysis
• Principal Investigator: Danielle Palma de Oliveira
• Grantee: Ana Paula Chaves Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/17055-7 - Discovering the Effects of Contamination on Elasmobranchs: Quantification of Metallic Elements and Evaluation of the Impact on the Health of Hammerhammer Sharks (Sphyrna zygaena) and Stingrays (Hypanus guttatus) using Biomarker Analysis, AP.R

Abstract

The growing process of urbanization in coastal cities has significantly impacted marine environments, primarily due to the increased load of pollutants. Among these pollutants, heavy metals stand out due to their characteristics of accumulation and biomagnification throughout the food chain, posing a threat to both biodiversity and human health. The construction of large ports, such as the one in Santos, an already significantly impacted region, and the new port planned in Pontal do Paraná, located in a still relatively preserved area, heightens these concerns. Such infrastructure affects nursery and feeding areas for marine species like sharks and rays, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem. These elasmobranchs, due to their life cycle characteristics, such as slow growth and low fecundity, are particularly vulnerable, making them key indicators of long-term environmental impacts. This study proposes to investigate heavy metal levels in the Smooth Hammerhead Shark and the Longnose Ray in the regions of São Paulo and Paraná. The research aims to assess and compare the current impacts on the health of these species using biomarkers associated with important physiological processes that allow us to predict the possible effects of constructing a new port, as well as to evaluate the risks associated with human consumption of elasmobranchs. Through this, the study seeks to contribute to the formulation of effective strategies for marine species conservation and food safety for the population.