Laser ablation-ICP-MS in search of element pattern in feathers

Hanc A., Zduniak P., Erciyas Yavuz K., Sajnog A., Baralkiewicz D.

MICROCHEMICAL JOURNAL, vol.134, pp.1-8, 2017 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 134
  • Publication Date: 2017
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.microc.2017.04.043
  • Journal Name: MICROCHEMICAL JOURNAL
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-8
  • Keywords: Laser ablation, LA-ICP-MS, Elements, Feathers, Melanin pigmentation, TRACE-METALS, PARUS-MAJOR, AVIAN FEATHERS, HEAVY-METALS, BIRDS, EXPOSURE, ACCUMULATION, NESTLINGS, LEAD, QUANTIFICATION
  • Ondokuz Mayıs University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The laser ablation-ICP-MS method was used for a quantitative assessment of the distribution of elements Al, Ba, Ca, Cu, Mg, Mn, Pb, Sr, and Zn in feathers. We analysed the rectrices of first-year red-breasted flycatchers characterized by a black-and-white colouration, which gave the opportunity to examine the content of elements in two aspects: (i) quantitative distribution of elements depending on the analysed part of the feathers; and (ii) direct imaging of elements in the context of variation in feather colouration (black - eumelanin pigment and white free of pigmentation). The results show that distributions of Ca, Cu, Mg, and Zn in the feather shaft were related to melanin pigmentation - concentrations of these elements were significantly higher within black parts. Furthermore, the highest concentrations of Al, Ba, Mn, Pb and Sr were recorded at the end of a shaft - the oldest part of the feathers analysed - which may be connected with the time and dynamic of nestling plumage development. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.