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Study Reveals High Mercury Threat to Okefenokee Wildlife

10/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mercury levels in Okefenokee Swamp alligators average 0.62 mg/kg, eight times higher than coastal sites.
Led by Kristen J. Zemaitis, lead author, the study shows mercury bioaccumulates and biomagnifies through the food web, risking wildlife and humans.
Pregnant individuals and children are particularly vulnerable to mercury's neurotoxic effects.
The findings are published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry.

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Story summary

Mercury levels in Okefenokee Swamp alligators average 0.62 mg/kg, eight times higher than coastal sites.
Led by Kristen J. Zemaitis, lead author, the study shows mercury bioaccumulates and biomagnifies through the food web, risking wildlife and humans.
Pregnant individuals and children are particularly vulnerable to mercury's neurotoxic effects.
The findings are published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry.