Effects of Contaminants on Reproduction in Small Cetaceans

Activity start date:
Activity end date:
Contract number:
SSFA/ASCOBANS/2008/02
Executive summary

Detailed laboratory analysis of all reproductive material, Assessment of reproductive abnormalities in female gonadal tissue
Age determination for all individuals, Statistical analysis for investigating the effects of contaminants on the reproductive output in females, Investigation of the relationship between accumulation of corpora scars (ovulation and pregnancy) and contaminant loads (taking into account the health status of the individual), in order to assess if contaminant burdens are either inhibiting ovulation, or pregnancy, Preliminary investigation of effects of high contaminant burdens on sperm production in males and reproductive abnormalities in male gonadal tissue

Objective
Surveys and Research
Activity

detailed laboratory analysis of all reproductive material from UK-stranded individuals

Country:
United Kingdom
Group:
Instrument:
Threats: Pollution, Industry and production