Reviewing Cd, Hg and Pb Assessments and Effects in Elasmobranchs

This chapter provides a global perspective on the current knowledge of Cd, Hg, and Pb dynamics in elasmobranchs. It synthesizes current knowledge of the physiological (i.e., oxidative stress, homeostatic balance, systemic health, immune function, and gut microbiome composition) and potential behavioral and ecological consequences of high Cd, Hg, and Pb concentrations based on wild and experimental studies. The chapter outlines several avenues for future work that will provide greater understanding on how increasing concentrations of Cd, Hg, and Pb may impact the long-term fitness in this threatened group of animals as well as the implications of toxic metal exposure for elasmobranch conservation and human consumption. Contaminant exposure has been linked to several biochemical alterations, comprising key biomarkers in assessing early exposure effects. These minor alterations may lead to metabolic and physiologic imbalances, compromising individual fitness.