Mercury methylation in periphyton of the Florida Everglades
January 1, 1999
Trophic accumulation of mercury (Hg) in aquatic ecosystems is of global concern due to health effects associated with eating fish with elevated Hg levels. The methylated form of Hg bioaccumulates so it is important to understand how inorganic Hg is transformed to methylmercury in the environment. Here, a new site for Hg methylation, the periphyton communities that are prevalent in the Florida Everglades, is described. It is hypothesized that periphyton communities that support an active microbial sulfur cycle support Hg methylation. This new methylation site has implications for trophic transfer of methylmercury since periphyton can be the base of the food web in aquatic ecosystems.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1999 |
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Title | Mercury methylation in periphyton of the Florida Everglades |
DOI | 10.4319/lo.1999.44.7.1815 |
Authors | L.B. Cleckner, C.C. Gilmour, J.P. Hurley, D. P. Krabbenhoft |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Limnology and Oceanography |
Index ID | 70021240 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Toxic Substances Hydrology Program |