PFAS Dolphin Milk Transfer Threatens Calf Health
## Hidden Hazard: Dolphin Milk Found Carrying PFAS to the Next Generation A recent study off the U.S. East Coast has uncovered a direct route for per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to move from nursing female bottlenose dolphins into their calves via milk. Researchers measured PFAS concentrations in Atlantic bottlenose dolphin milk and observed that the pollutants can be transmitted during the critical early‑life period, raising alarm over potential health impacts throughout the marine food web. ### Key Takeaways - **Direct transfer identified** – PFAS were detected in dolphin milk, confirming maternal‑to‑calf exposure. - **Concentration dynamics** – Adult female dolphins exhibited PFAS levels up to 15 % lower than those found in their milk, indicating active mobilization into lactation. - **Ecological implications** – The findings suggest a previously unquantified pathway that could amplify PFAS bioaccumulation across marine trophic levels. - **Health concerns for calves** – Early‑life exposure may compromise immune function, development, and long‑term survival of dolphin offspring. - **Policy relevance** – Results underscore the need for stricter regulation of PFAS discharges into coastal ecosystems. [Read Full Article](https://news.ababil360.com/pfas-dolphin-milk-transfer-threatens-calf-health/) #PFAS #DolphinHealth #MarinePollution #EcoTox #FoodWebRisk #ConservationScience #MarineMammals #EnvironmentalToxins #CalfSafety #newsababil360
