Global assessment of oceanic lead pollution using sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) as an indicator species

Lead (Pb) is an oceanic pollutant of global concern. Anthropogenic activities are increasing oceanic levels, but to an unknown extent. The sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) has a global distribution and high trophic level. The aim of this study was to establish a global baseline of oceanic Pb concentrations using free-ranging sperm whales as an indicator species. Skin biopsies (n = 337) were collected during the voyage of the Odyssey (2000–2005) from 17 regions considering gender and age. Pb was detectable in 315 samples with a global mean of 1.6 ug/g ww ranging from 0.1 to 129.6 ug/g ww. Papua New Guinea, Bahamas and Australia had the highest regional mean with 6.1, 3.4, and 3.1 ug/g ww, respectively. Pb concentrations were not significantly different between sex and age in males. This is the first global toxicological dataset for Pb in a marine mammal and confirms Pb is widely distributed with hotspots in some regions.