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University of Michigan Biological Station

The University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS) was founded in 1909.

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Earthworms as a source of mercury in terrestrial food chains

Project Abstract: 
Several studies of methyl mercury have shown bioaccumulation occurs in aquatic systems, and ends up increasing in quantity further up the food chain. Fewer studies have been performed on terrestrial wildlife, or looked into how mercury might be building up in food chains not associated with aquatic systems. Earthworms have been shown to be able methylate mercury, and soil studies performed across the continental US has shown mercury levels to be rather high across the Upper Peninsula (UP) in Michigan. Thus, the project investigates mercury levels in earthworms across the UP and attempts to determine correlations between the mercury levels in the American marten within the same areas.
Years Active: 
2019
Methods: 
Using the section information of the American marten collected from previous research across the UP, 3-4 random sites were determined within an approximate 7km^2 home range surrounding the center of that section. Each of these sites were established 150m from the nearest main road or forest service road. Earthworms were collected using a mustard solution, measured and identified, homogenized, frozen, freeze-dried, and then measured for mercury levels as well as carbon and nitrogen isotope levels. Soil and leaf litter was also collected and tested for mercury levels. These mercury levels are then compared to those of the corresponding marten from the same territory to test for correlation.
Funding agency: 
National Science Foundation