Regional variation in fish mercury.

The bioaccumulation of methylmercury in fish and its biomagnification through the food chain is a major public health concern. Differences in fish methylmercury concentration observed between China and the United States highlight the need for a better understanding of region-specific factors that drive its formation and biological uptake.

Upwelling Enhances Mercury Particle Scavenging in the California Current System.

Coastal upwelling supplies nutrients supporting primary production while also adding the toxic trace metal mercury (Hg) to the mixed layer of the ocean. This could be a concern for human and environmental health if it results in the enhanced bioaccumulation of monomethylmercury (MMHg). Here, we explore how upwelling influences Hg cycling in the California Current System (CCS) biome through particle scavenging and sea-air exchange.

Dimethylmercury as a Source of Monomethylmercury in a Highly Productive Upwelling System.

Monomethylmercury (MMHg) is a neurotoxicant that biomagnifies in marine food webs, reaching high concentrations in apex predators. To predict changes in oceanic MMHg concentrations, it is important to quantify the sources and sinks of MMHg. Here, we study mercury speciation in the California Current System through cruise sampling and modeling.

Geohealth Policy Benefits Are Mediated by Interacting Natural, Engineered, and Social Processes.

Interest in health implications of Earth science research has significantly increased. Articles frequently dispense policy advice, for example, to reduce human contaminant exposures. Recommendations such as fish consumption advisories rarely reflect causal reasoning around tradeoffs or anticipate how scientific information will be received and processed by the media or vulnerable communities.