Antonio Curtosi - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Antonio Curtosi

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of heavy metals in surface sediments from an Antarctic marine ecosystem

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2001

The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sedime... more The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sediments collected from Potter Cove, in the 25 de Mayo Island (King George Island), Antarctica, and its drainage basin, were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The obtained results were use to determine the areal and vertical distribution of the metals of in the Cove and potential sources of these metals to this environment. The geochemical data suggest that most of the metals found in Potter Cove constitute a redistribution of autochthonous materials within the ecosystem. Therefore, the metal concentrations can be considered to be present at natural background levels in surface sediments.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of PAHs in the water column, sediments and biota of Potter Cove, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Antarctic Science, 2009

In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessa... more In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessary to document levels of contaminants present in these sites. Several petrogenic and pyrogenic sources have been reported for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctica. In this work, levels of 25 PAHs were measured in suspended particulate matter (SPM), surface sediment and marine organisms (fish Notothenia coriiceps, bivalve Laternula elliptica and gastropod Nacella concinna) from Potter Cove. Total PAH levels from SPM were low and similar in all sites studied (30-82 ng g -1 dw), phenanthrene being the dominant compound (68-84%). The exception was an area close to the wharf where significantly higher values of light PAHs such as naphthalene, acenaphthylene, 2,3,5-trimethylnaphthalene and fluorene were detected, indicating the influence of recent fuel spills. PAH concentrations in surface sediments were generally low (37-252 ng g -1 dw) except for two sites (1762 and 1908 ng g -1 dw) which suggested an accumulation process associated with the water circulation pattern. Liver tissue of N coriiceps presented significantly higher PAH levels (257 ng g -1 dw) compared with gonads. The pattern of individual compounds from substrates and organisms suggests a petrogenic and low-temperature combustion origin.

Research paper thumbnail of The use of epilithic antarctic lichens (Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antarctica) to determine deposition patterns of heavy metals in the Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Science of the Total Environment, 1997

Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U... more Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, sampled close to the Argentine scientific station 'Jubany' on '25 de Mayo' (King George) Island, in the Southern Shetland Archipelago (Antarctica). The corresponding heavy-metal levels have been measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometry, following internationally accepted analytical methods. The results obtained support the hypothesis that an atmospheric circulation of trace metals exists on the assessed area, and the activities developed at the different scientific stations located on this island would be a potential source of heavy metals to the evaluated environment. The geographical distribution of trace metals atmospherically transported in the area close to 'Jubany Station' was studied through the corresponding metal contents of the assessed lichens. Finally, the suitability of both analyzed lichen species, Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, as biological indicators for quantitative monitoring of airborne metals for this antarctic environment was recognized. 0 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of heavy metals in surface sediments from an Antarctic marine ecosystem

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2001

The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sedime... more The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sediments collected from Potter Cove, in the 25 de Mayo Island (King George Island), Antarctica, and its drainage basin, were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The obtained results were use to determine the areal and vertical distribution of the metals of in the Cove and potential sources of these metals to this environment. The geochemical data suggest that most of the metals found in Potter Cove constitute a redistribution of autochthonous materials within the ecosystem. Therefore, the metal concentrations can be considered to be present at natural background levels in surface sediments.

Research paper thumbnail of Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil and surface marine sediment near Jubany Station (Antarctica). Role of permafrost as a low-permeability barrier

Science of The Total Environment, 2007

Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growi... more Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growing tourist and fisheries activities as well as scientific operations and their related logistic support are responsible for an increasing level of pollutants in this fragile environment. Soils and coastal sediments are significantly affected near scientific stations particularly by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In this work sediment and soil were sampled in two consecutive summer Antarctic expeditions at Potter Cove and peninsula, in the vicinity of Jubany Station (South Shetland Islands). Two- and 3-ring PAHs (methylnaphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene and anthracene) were the main compounds found in most sites, although total PAH concentrations showed relatively low levels compared with other human-impacted areas in Antarctica. Pattern distribution of PAHs observed in samples suggested that low-temperature combustion processes such as diesel motor combustion and open-field garbage burning are the main sources of these compounds. An increase in PAH concentrations was observed from surface to depth into the active soil layer except for a unique sampling site where a fuel spill had been recently reported and where an inverted PAH concentration gradient was observed. The highest level was detected in the upper layer of permafrost followed by a sharp decrease in depth, showing this layer is acting as a barrier for downward PAH migration. When PAH levels in soil from both sampling programs were compared a significant decrease (p<0.01) was observed in summer 2005 (range at 75-cm depth: 12+/-1-153+/-22 ng/g) compared to summer 2004 (range at 75-cm depth: 162+/-15-1182+/-113 ng/g) whereas concentrations in surface sediment collected nearby the station PAHs increased drastically in 2005 (range: 36+/-3-1908+/-114 ng/g) compared to 2004 (range: 28+/-3-312+/-24 ng/g). Precipitation regime and water run off suggest that an important wash out of soil-PAHs occurred during the interval time between samplings. Results showed that the present PAH contamination level of Jubany Station is relatively low compared to other reported cases in Antarctica but also suggests that an increase in rain and in thawing processes caused by the global warming could result in an important soil-associated PAH mobilization with unpredictable consequences for the biota of Potter Cove.

Research paper thumbnail of Ultraviolet-B effects on photosystem II efficiency of natural phytoplankton communities from Antarctica

Polar Biology, 2005

Page 1. ORIGINAL PAPER Jose´e Nina Bouchard Æ Suzanne Roy Æ Gustavo Ferreyra Douglas A. Campbell ... more Page 1. ORIGINAL PAPER Jose´e Nina Bouchard Æ Suzanne Roy Æ Gustavo Ferreyra Douglas A. Campbell Æ Antonio Curtosi Ultraviolet-B effects on photosystem II efficiency of natural phytoplankton communities from Antarctica ...

Research paper thumbnail of Metal (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu) levels in the Antarctic fish Notothenia coriiceps

Polar Biology, 1998

During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were ... more During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were collected at King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, to determine the levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu in muscle, liver, gonad and kidney. Metal levels were assessed using the inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) technique. The levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu observed in both sexes of N. coriiceps were signi®cantly lower in muscle tissue than in liver, kidney and gonad; the livers of males and gonads of females had the highest levels. The dierences between the sexes were signi®cant for Zn and Mn in gonads and for Cu in liver. Despite the modest size-range of the specimens, the Cu levels in liver, muscle and kidney were signi®cantly inversely correlated with female mass (P < 0.05) as was gonad Cu level and male body length. Fe mainly presented the highest concentrations and Cu and Mn the lowest ones. Mean muscle metal levels are similar to those of hake, cod, herring and mackerel; however, the level of Fe was slightly higher. Accumulation may occur for Fe, Zn and Mn in liver, kidney and gonad, which have higher levels than those of most prey.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal variation of algal growth conditions in sheltered Antarctic bays: the example of Potter Cove (King George Island, South Shetlands)

Journal of Marine Systems, 1993

... 289 Elsevier Science Publishers BV, Amsterdam Seasonal variation of algal growth conditions i... more ... 289 Elsevier Science Publishers BV, Amsterdam Seasonal variation of algal growth conditions in sheltered Antarctic bays: the example of Potter Cove (King George Island, South Shetlands) Heinz KISser a, Gustavo Ferreyra b Irene ... 300 m Zanefeld, 1966 -Victoria Land > 300 ...

Research paper thumbnail of Hydrography of Potter Cove, a Small Fjord-like Inlet on King George Island (South Shetlands)

Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 1994

Research paper thumbnail of Total and inorganic arsenic in Antarctic macroalgae

Chemosphere, 2007

The Antarctic region offers unparalleled possibilities of investigating the natural distribution ... more The Antarctic region offers unparalleled possibilities of investigating the natural distribution of metals and metalloids, such as arsenic. Total and inorganic As were analysed in nine species of Antarctic macroalgae collected during the 2002 summer season in the Potter Cove area at Jubany-Dallmann Station (South Shetland Islands, Argentinian Base). Total As was determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry after microwave-assisted acid digestion. Inorganic As was determined by acid digestion, solvent extraction, flow injection-hydride generation-atomic absorption spectrometry. Total As ranged from 5.8 microg g(-1) dry weight (dw) (Myriogramme sp.) to 152 microg g(-1)dw (Himantothallus grandifolius). Total As concentrations were higher in Phaeophytes (mean+/-SD: 71+/-44 microg g(-1)dw) than in Rhodophytes (mean+/-SD: 15+/-11 microg g(-1)dw). Inorganic As ranged from 0.12 microg g(-1) (Myriogramme sp.) to 0.84 microg g(-1)dw (Phaeurus antarcticus). The percentage of inorganic As with respect to total As was 0.7 for Phaeophytes, but almost 4 times higher for Rhodophytes (2.6). The work discusses possible causes for the presence of As in marine organisms in that pristine environment.

Research paper thumbnail of Phenanthrene Biodegradation in Soils Using an Antarctic Bacterial Consortium

Bioremediation Journal, 2006

Biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctic soils is limited by low te... more Biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctic soils is limited by low temperatures, lack of adequate levels of nutrients, low number of PAH-tolerant members in the autochthonous microbiota and low bioavailability of contaminants. In the present work, microcosms systems (performed in 1-L glass flasks containing Antarctic soil supplemented with 1744 ppm of phenanthrene) were used to study (i) the effect of biostimulation with a complex organic source of nutrients (fish meal) combined with a surfactant (Brij 700); (ii) the effect of bioaugmentation with a psychrotolerant PAHdegrading bacterial consortium (M10); (iii) the effect of the combination of both strategies. The authors found that combination of biostimulation and bioaugmentation caused a significant removal (46.6%) of phenanthrene after 56 days under Antarctic environmental conditions. When bioaugmentation or biostimulation were applied separately, nonsignificant reduction in phenanthrene concentration was observed. Microtox test showed a low increase in toxicity only in the most efficient system. Results proved that "in situ" bioremediation process of phenanthrene-contaminated soils is possible in Antarctic stations. In addition, inoculation with a psychrotolerant PAH-degrading bacterial consortium in association with a mix of fish meal and a high-molecular-weight surfactant improved phenanthrene removal and should be the selected strategy when the number of hydrocarbons degrading bacteria in the target soil is low.

Research paper thumbnail of Presence and Distribution of Persistent Toxic Substances in Sediments and Marine Organisms of Potter Cove, Antarctica

Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 2010

Levels of butyltin compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals were analyzed in marine... more Levels of butyltin compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals were analyzed in marine sediments and organisms (Notothenia coriiceps, Laternula elliptica, and Nacella concinna), each of which has a different feeding strategy, in Potter Cove, Antarctica. PCBs were lower than detection limits in all samples. Only butyltin compounds were detected in a restricted area near the scientific station. Chromium, copper, magnesium, lead (Pb), and zinc had similar behavior in the cove, probably because they are regulated by similar process and conditions. However, Pb levels in some sites of the cove seem to be related to human activities in the area. Cadmium levels were relatively low, with the highest values found close to the shoreline, which is probably influenced by seasonal streams draining waters from Potter Peninsula. Results showed that despite the fact that Jubany Station has been operating for [50 years, surface sediment and biota from Potter Cove do not exhibit levels of pollutants representing environmental concern.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of PAHs in the water column, sediments and biota of Potter Cove, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Antarctic Science, 2009

In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessa... more In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessary to document levels of contaminants present in these sites. Several petrogenic and pyrogenic sources have been reported for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctica. In this work, levels of 25 PAHs were measured in suspended particulate matter (SPM), surface sediment and marine organisms (fish Notothenia coriiceps, bivalve Laternula elliptica and gastropod Nacella concinna) from Potter Cove. Total PAH levels from SPM were low and similar in all sites studied (30-82 ng g -1 dw), phenanthrene being the dominant compound (68-84%). The exception was an area close to the wharf where significantly higher values of light PAHs such as naphthalene, acenaphthylene, 2,3,5-trimethylnaphthalene and fluorene were detected, indicating the influence of recent fuel spills. PAH concentrations in surface sediments were generally low (37-252 ng g -1 dw) except for two sites (1762 and 1908 ng g -1 dw) which suggested an accumulation process associated with the water circulation pattern. Liver tissue of N coriiceps presented significantly higher PAH levels (257 ng g -1 dw) compared with gonads. The pattern of individual compounds from substrates and organisms suggests a petrogenic and low-temperature combustion origin.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in sediments and soft tissues of the Antarctic clam Laternula elliptica: More evidence as a ? possible biomonitor of coastal marine pollution at high latitudes?

Science of The Total Environment, 2015

The potential of the Antarctic clam as biomonitor for heavy metals was evaluated.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of heavy metals in surface sediments from an Antarctic marine ecosystem

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2001

The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sedime... more The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sediments collected from Potter Cove, in the 25 de Mayo Island (King George Island), Antarctica, and its drainage basin, were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The obtained results were use to determine the areal and vertical distribution of the metals of in the Cove and potential sources of these metals to this environment. The geochemical data suggest that most of the metals found in Potter Cove constitute a redistribution of autochthonous materials within the ecosystem. Therefore, the metal concentrations can be considered to be present at natural background levels in surface sediments.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of PAHs in the water column, sediments and biota of Potter Cove, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Antarctic Science, 2009

In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessa... more In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessary to document levels of contaminants present in these sites. Several petrogenic and pyrogenic sources have been reported for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctica. In this work, levels of 25 PAHs were measured in suspended particulate matter (SPM), surface sediment and marine organisms (fish Notothenia coriiceps, bivalve Laternula elliptica and gastropod Nacella concinna) from Potter Cove. Total PAH levels from SPM were low and similar in all sites studied (30-82 ng g -1 dw), phenanthrene being the dominant compound (68-84%). The exception was an area close to the wharf where significantly higher values of light PAHs such as naphthalene, acenaphthylene, 2,3,5-trimethylnaphthalene and fluorene were detected, indicating the influence of recent fuel spills. PAH concentrations in surface sediments were generally low (37-252 ng g -1 dw) except for two sites (1762 and 1908 ng g -1 dw) which suggested an accumulation process associated with the water circulation pattern. Liver tissue of N coriiceps presented significantly higher PAH levels (257 ng g -1 dw) compared with gonads. The pattern of individual compounds from substrates and organisms suggests a petrogenic and low-temperature combustion origin.

Research paper thumbnail of The use of epilithic antarctic lichens (Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antarctica) to determine deposition patterns of heavy metals in the Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Science of the Total Environment, 1997

Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U... more Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, sampled close to the Argentine scientific station 'Jubany' on '25 de Mayo' (King George) Island, in the Southern Shetland Archipelago (Antarctica). The corresponding heavy-metal levels have been measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometry, following internationally accepted analytical methods. The results obtained support the hypothesis that an atmospheric circulation of trace metals exists on the assessed area, and the activities developed at the different scientific stations located on this island would be a potential source of heavy metals to the evaluated environment. The geographical distribution of trace metals atmospherically transported in the area close to 'Jubany Station' was studied through the corresponding metal contents of the assessed lichens. Finally, the suitability of both analyzed lichen species, Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, as biological indicators for quantitative monitoring of airborne metals for this antarctic environment was recognized. 0 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of heavy metals in surface sediments from an Antarctic marine ecosystem

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2001

The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sedime... more The concentrations of lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, manganese and zinc in surface sediments collected from Potter Cove, in the 25 de Mayo Island (King George Island), Antarctica, and its drainage basin, were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The obtained results were use to determine the areal and vertical distribution of the metals of in the Cove and potential sources of these metals to this environment. The geochemical data suggest that most of the metals found in Potter Cove constitute a redistribution of autochthonous materials within the ecosystem. Therefore, the metal concentrations can be considered to be present at natural background levels in surface sediments.

Research paper thumbnail of Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil and surface marine sediment near Jubany Station (Antarctica). Role of permafrost as a low-permeability barrier

Science of The Total Environment, 2007

Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growi... more Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growing tourist and fisheries activities as well as scientific operations and their related logistic support are responsible for an increasing level of pollutants in this fragile environment. Soils and coastal sediments are significantly affected near scientific stations particularly by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In this work sediment and soil were sampled in two consecutive summer Antarctic expeditions at Potter Cove and peninsula, in the vicinity of Jubany Station (South Shetland Islands). Two- and 3-ring PAHs (methylnaphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene and anthracene) were the main compounds found in most sites, although total PAH concentrations showed relatively low levels compared with other human-impacted areas in Antarctica. Pattern distribution of PAHs observed in samples suggested that low-temperature combustion processes such as diesel motor combustion and open-field garbage burning are the main sources of these compounds. An increase in PAH concentrations was observed from surface to depth into the active soil layer except for a unique sampling site where a fuel spill had been recently reported and where an inverted PAH concentration gradient was observed. The highest level was detected in the upper layer of permafrost followed by a sharp decrease in depth, showing this layer is acting as a barrier for downward PAH migration. When PAH levels in soil from both sampling programs were compared a significant decrease (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.01) was observed in summer 2005 (range at 75-cm depth: 12+/-1-153+/-22 ng/g) compared to summer 2004 (range at 75-cm depth: 162+/-15-1182+/-113 ng/g) whereas concentrations in surface sediment collected nearby the station PAHs increased drastically in 2005 (range: 36+/-3-1908+/-114 ng/g) compared to 2004 (range: 28+/-3-312+/-24 ng/g). Precipitation regime and water run off suggest that an important wash out of soil-PAHs occurred during the interval time between samplings. Results showed that the present PAH contamination level of Jubany Station is relatively low compared to other reported cases in Antarctica but also suggests that an increase in rain and in thawing processes caused by the global warming could result in an important soil-associated PAH mobilization with unpredictable consequences for the biota of Potter Cove.

Research paper thumbnail of Ultraviolet-B effects on photosystem II efficiency of natural phytoplankton communities from Antarctica

Polar Biology, 2005

Page 1. ORIGINAL PAPER Jose´e Nina Bouchard Æ Suzanne Roy Æ Gustavo Ferreyra Douglas A. Campbell ... more Page 1. ORIGINAL PAPER Jose´e Nina Bouchard Æ Suzanne Roy Æ Gustavo Ferreyra Douglas A. Campbell Æ Antonio Curtosi Ultraviolet-B effects on photosystem II efficiency of natural phytoplankton communities from Antarctica ...

Research paper thumbnail of Metal (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu) levels in the Antarctic fish Notothenia coriiceps

Polar Biology, 1998

During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were ... more During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were collected at King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, to determine the levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu in muscle, liver, gonad and kidney. Metal levels were assessed using the inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) technique. The levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu observed in both sexes of N. coriiceps were signi®cantly lower in muscle tissue than in liver, kidney and gonad; the livers of males and gonads of females had the highest levels. The dierences between the sexes were signi®cant for Zn and Mn in gonads and for Cu in liver. Despite the modest size-range of the specimens, the Cu levels in liver, muscle and kidney were signi®cantly inversely correlated with female mass (P < 0.05) as was gonad Cu level and male body length. Fe mainly presented the highest concentrations and Cu and Mn the lowest ones. Mean muscle metal levels are similar to those of hake, cod, herring and mackerel; however, the level of Fe was slightly higher. Accumulation may occur for Fe, Zn and Mn in liver, kidney and gonad, which have higher levels than those of most prey.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal variation of algal growth conditions in sheltered Antarctic bays: the example of Potter Cove (King George Island, South Shetlands)

Journal of Marine Systems, 1993

... 289 Elsevier Science Publishers BV, Amsterdam Seasonal variation of algal growth conditions i... more ... 289 Elsevier Science Publishers BV, Amsterdam Seasonal variation of algal growth conditions in sheltered Antarctic bays: the example of Potter Cove (King George Island, South Shetlands) Heinz KISser a, Gustavo Ferreyra b Irene ... 300 m Zanefeld, 1966 -Victoria Land > 300 ...

Research paper thumbnail of Hydrography of Potter Cove, a Small Fjord-like Inlet on King George Island (South Shetlands)

Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 1994

Research paper thumbnail of Total and inorganic arsenic in Antarctic macroalgae

Chemosphere, 2007

The Antarctic region offers unparalleled possibilities of investigating the natural distribution ... more The Antarctic region offers unparalleled possibilities of investigating the natural distribution of metals and metalloids, such as arsenic. Total and inorganic As were analysed in nine species of Antarctic macroalgae collected during the 2002 summer season in the Potter Cove area at Jubany-Dallmann Station (South Shetland Islands, Argentinian Base). Total As was determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry after microwave-assisted acid digestion. Inorganic As was determined by acid digestion, solvent extraction, flow injection-hydride generation-atomic absorption spectrometry. Total As ranged from 5.8 microg g(-1) dry weight (dw) (Myriogramme sp.) to 152 microg g(-1)dw (Himantothallus grandifolius). Total As concentrations were higher in Phaeophytes (mean+/-SD: 71+/-44 microg g(-1)dw) than in Rhodophytes (mean+/-SD: 15+/-11 microg g(-1)dw). Inorganic As ranged from 0.12 microg g(-1) (Myriogramme sp.) to 0.84 microg g(-1)dw (Phaeurus antarcticus). The percentage of inorganic As with respect to total As was 0.7 for Phaeophytes, but almost 4 times higher for Rhodophytes (2.6). The work discusses possible causes for the presence of As in marine organisms in that pristine environment.

Research paper thumbnail of Phenanthrene Biodegradation in Soils Using an Antarctic Bacterial Consortium

Bioremediation Journal, 2006

Biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctic soils is limited by low te... more Biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctic soils is limited by low temperatures, lack of adequate levels of nutrients, low number of PAH-tolerant members in the autochthonous microbiota and low bioavailability of contaminants. In the present work, microcosms systems (performed in 1-L glass flasks containing Antarctic soil supplemented with 1744 ppm of phenanthrene) were used to study (i) the effect of biostimulation with a complex organic source of nutrients (fish meal) combined with a surfactant (Brij 700); (ii) the effect of bioaugmentation with a psychrotolerant PAHdegrading bacterial consortium (M10); (iii) the effect of the combination of both strategies. The authors found that combination of biostimulation and bioaugmentation caused a significant removal (46.6%) of phenanthrene after 56 days under Antarctic environmental conditions. When bioaugmentation or biostimulation were applied separately, nonsignificant reduction in phenanthrene concentration was observed. Microtox test showed a low increase in toxicity only in the most efficient system. Results proved that "in situ" bioremediation process of phenanthrene-contaminated soils is possible in Antarctic stations. In addition, inoculation with a psychrotolerant PAH-degrading bacterial consortium in association with a mix of fish meal and a high-molecular-weight surfactant improved phenanthrene removal and should be the selected strategy when the number of hydrocarbons degrading bacteria in the target soil is low.

Research paper thumbnail of Presence and Distribution of Persistent Toxic Substances in Sediments and Marine Organisms of Potter Cove, Antarctica

Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 2010

Levels of butyltin compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals were analyzed in marine... more Levels of butyltin compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals were analyzed in marine sediments and organisms (Notothenia coriiceps, Laternula elliptica, and Nacella concinna), each of which has a different feeding strategy, in Potter Cove, Antarctica. PCBs were lower than detection limits in all samples. Only butyltin compounds were detected in a restricted area near the scientific station. Chromium, copper, magnesium, lead (Pb), and zinc had similar behavior in the cove, probably because they are regulated by similar process and conditions. However, Pb levels in some sites of the cove seem to be related to human activities in the area. Cadmium levels were relatively low, with the highest values found close to the shoreline, which is probably influenced by seasonal streams draining waters from Potter Peninsula. Results showed that despite the fact that Jubany Station has been operating for [50 years, surface sediment and biota from Potter Cove do not exhibit levels of pollutants representing environmental concern.

Research paper thumbnail of Distribution of PAHs in the water column, sediments and biota of Potter Cove, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Antarctic Science, 2009

In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessa... more In order to establish the environmental status of areas close to Antarctic stations it is necessary to document levels of contaminants present in these sites. Several petrogenic and pyrogenic sources have been reported for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Antarctica. In this work, levels of 25 PAHs were measured in suspended particulate matter (SPM), surface sediment and marine organisms (fish Notothenia coriiceps, bivalve Laternula elliptica and gastropod Nacella concinna) from Potter Cove. Total PAH levels from SPM were low and similar in all sites studied (30-82 ng g -1 dw), phenanthrene being the dominant compound (68-84%). The exception was an area close to the wharf where significantly higher values of light PAHs such as naphthalene, acenaphthylene, 2,3,5-trimethylnaphthalene and fluorene were detected, indicating the influence of recent fuel spills. PAH concentrations in surface sediments were generally low (37-252 ng g -1 dw) except for two sites (1762 and 1908 ng g -1 dw) which suggested an accumulation process associated with the water circulation pattern. Liver tissue of N coriiceps presented significantly higher PAH levels (257 ng g -1 dw) compared with gonads. The pattern of individual compounds from substrates and organisms suggests a petrogenic and low-temperature combustion origin.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in sediments and soft tissues of the Antarctic clam Laternula elliptica: More evidence as a ? possible biomonitor of coastal marine pollution at high latitudes?

Science of The Total Environment, 2015

The potential of the Antarctic clam as biomonitor for heavy metals was evaluated.