Per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) in the feathers and excreta of Gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua) from the Antarctic Peninsula

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exhibit widespread global distribution, extending to remote regions including Antarctica. Despite potential adverse effects on seabirds, PFAS exposure among Antarctic penguins remains poorly studied. We investigated the occurrence of 29 PFAS compounds in feathers and excreta of Gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua) from Fildes Bay, Antarctica. Sample collection was conducted during the austral summer (February 2015) and analyzed by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem ES (−) mass spectrometry. The results showed that adults tend to accumulate more PFOA, PFPeS and NaDONA than chicks, with PFOA emerging as the predominant compound in feathers. The compounds PFHxA, PFDoDA, PFBS, PFOS, 4:2 FTS, 6:2 FTS, and PFEESA were only detected in penguin excreta, indicating that they are not absorbed into the organism. The detection of PFAS in penguin feathers and excreta not only indicates local contamination but also reaffirms the far-reaching impact of anthropogenic pollutants. This study presents the first documented occurrence of NaDONA in Antarctica, despite its status as a regulatory-compliant alternative to legacy PFAS compounds—a finding that needs deeper attention. The data can serve as a base for further research to understand the full extent of PFAS contamination and its implications for Antarctic wildlife and ecosystems. © 2024