Abstract Project: AWIPEV_0330

Olivier Chastel (CNRS/ Université de La Rochelle)

The ORNITHO-ENDOCRINO research project aims at continuing to investigate the consequences of contaminants exposure for arctic seabirds from Svalbard. We will focus on a group of contaminants of emerging concern: poly and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) which are used as surface-active agents in a multitude of manufactured and consumer products. Research conducted in our study model, the black-legged kittiwake, have shown that many PFAS are maternally transferred to the eggs and are able to alter maternal hormone deposition. This raises the question of the short and long-term consequences of In Ovo exposure to PFAS. Furthermore, many arctic seabirds are migratory, and a significant part of the contaminant burden of birds breeding at high latitudes could be related to their wintering areas. This strongly recalls the so called carry-over effects which refer to events and processes occurring in one season that can affect individual performance in the subsequent season. In this framework, we wish to investigate: 1) the influence of migratory strategies (by mean of biologging) on PFAS maternal transfer and hence offspring health; 2) how migratory strategies used during the first years of life influence PFAS exposure; 3) the combined effects of PFAS exposure and foraging conditions experienced during migration on immature and adult birds. To do so, we will focus on telomeres, a relevant biomarker of individual health. The ORNITHO-ENDOCRINO research program will also contribute to the long-term survey of contaminants, migration and foraging areas of Svalbard seabirds, led by our Norwegian partners.