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Email the author (Login required) Enrichment of trace elements by Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti) on nesting areas at Pajaros Niños Islet, central coast of Chile
Submited: 2025-06-20 15:45:07 | Published: 2026-02-28 20:26:37
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3856/vol54-issue1-fulltext-3490
Abstract
Seabirds are important biological pathways, moving pollutants from sea to land via their guano and feathers. This study investigated the influence of Humboldt penguin nesting activities on trace element concentrations in soils at Pájaros Niños Islet, central coast of Chile. Soil samples were collected from penguin nesting sites and control areas during July 2022 and analyzed for seven trace elements (Pb, Cu, Co, Cr, Zn, Ni, and As) using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Lead concentrations were significantly higher in nesting sites compared to control sites (3.57 ± 0.64 vs. 2.66 ± 0.70 mg kg-1, P < 0.05), while Cu, Zn, and Ni showed elevated but non-significant concentrations in nesting areas. The trace element hierarchy in nesting sites was Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > As > Co > Ni, differing from typical crustal abundance patterns. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between Cu and Zn (r = 0.93, P < 0.01) and a moderate correlation between Co and As (r = 0.83, P < 0.05) in nesting sites. Principal component analysis revealed considerable overlap among site types, suggesting subtle geochemical differences. These findings suggest that while Humboldt penguins influence soil trace element composition through guano inputs, the magnitude of change is modest compared to natural variation. The results contribute to understanding seabird-mediated biotransport of trace elements and highlight the need for further research on the ecological implications of metal accumulation in coastal nesting habitats.
