The Influence of Anthropogenic Nitrogen and Sulfur on Mercury Methylation: from Wetland Sediment to Upland Soil
Abstract
Monomethylmercury (MeHg, CH3Hg+) is a neurotoxin that bioaccumulates in the food web. Previous investigations have found eutrophication to be associated with both increases and decreases in MeHg accumulation. We embarked on a time series study at Younger Lagoon Reserve, adjacent to agricultural fields, to investigate the influence of anthropogenic nitrate on MeHg production in a local lagoon. Our work hints at why it is possible for dichotomous results to exist, and also again demonstrates that sulfur is an important control on MeHg production. MeHg production in soils has received less attention than wetland and marine environments, yet agricultural soils such as vineyards are of interest as they receive elemental sulfur applications. Our research reveals the results of a first inquiry into the fate of sulfur in vineyards and its implications for potential methylation.