Scientists' Contributions

Trace elements contents, cytogenetical and haematological indices in monitor species small mammals in different bulgarian regions

R. Metcheva¹ , M. Topashka-Ancheva¹, S. Teodorova²

    The data for the copper, zinc, lead and cadmium content in liver and body of small mammals have been analysed. Rodents (Microtus arvalis, Clethrionomys glareolus, Pitymys subterraneus, Chionomys nivalis, Apodemus flavicollis, Mus macedonicus) and insectivorous (Sorex araneus and Crocidura leucodon) have been used like zoomonitors. The comparison is performed in three lines:

1. points and years of the monitoring;
2. specific bioaccumulation;
3. pathological changes in the chromosome status and haematological indices.

    Specific bioaccumulation features in some monitor species are noticed. A method for evaluation of the heavy metal loading degree in different species is proposed. The comparison of loading in Cl. glareolus and A. flavicollis is in agreement with the data of other authors for Central Europe. A significant correlation between the heavy metal loading of zoomonitors and the chromosome aberration frequency and the presence of pathological changes in erythrocytes - micronuclei and basophilic granulation is observed.

    It is shown that three of investigated regions in National Park Rila mountain could be assumed as background points. Some possible reasons for the heavy metal contamination of the low altitude region in Rila are discussed. A correlation between heavy metal content level in zoomonitors and hydro-meteorological factors are established.

Key words: ecomonitoring, small mammals, heavy metal bioaccumulation, chromosome aberrations, haematological indices.