Ecotoxicology & Health

Killer whales are particularly vulnerable to accumulating chemicals due to their position as apex predators and a thick blubber layer in which lipophilic contaminants continuously accumulate over their long lifespan. We monitor levels of toxic contaminants in the blubber of biopsy sampled live killer whales and in dead stranded specimens. Our toxicology studies confirmed the presence of high levels of legacy contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) – even though these compounds were banned long ago. We also found high levels of emerging contaminants – new molecules created in replacement of banned chemicals and supposedly less harmful to wildlife, including unregulated brominated flame retardants. Contaminants are associated with toxic effects such as impairment of the immune and hormone systems, possibly leading to higher mortality and lower reproduction. Using transcriptomic tools (RNA-seq technology), we aim to evaluate health effects of contaminants. We work closely with environmental agencies and other relevant stakeholders in Norway to ensure that our research aligns with ongoing environmental monitoring efforts. Our results will help ban more harmful contaminants.