First record of organochlorine pesticides in blood of wild and captive African leopards, Panthera pardus pardus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Compared to aquatic ecosystems, limited information exists on organochlorine accumulation in terrestrial and this is specifically true for carnivores that have received attention terms of studies pollutant bioaccumulation. The African Leopard, Panthera pardus (Linnaeus, 1758), a popular focal species research by ethologists ecologists, but noticeable knowledge gap with regards toxicological aspects. To address gap, the aim study was determine baseline pesticide (OCP) concentrations blood live wild captive leopards South Africa, explore relationship between OCP levels different conservation management strategies. Peripheral samples seven leopards, representing regular melanistic individuals within population, were collected while under sedation. Σ serum detected means GC-ECD. Statistical relationships among content from three geographical areas, sexes, age groups status examined. Captive had slightly higher mean concentration (901 pg/ml) than (768 pg/ml), females lower OCPs (797 males (1,058 pg/ml). accumulated following order DDTs (27%) > HCHs (21%) Heptachlors (15%) CHLs Drins (14%) HCB (8%). Differences composition profiles resampled also found. sources can be attributed historic current use of, e.g., DDT HCHs, malaria vector control insecticides/avicides Africa. For main source possibly contaminated chicken formed major portion their diet. This first report Africa highlights need parameter considered healthy populations.