Mapping elements distribution in carapace of Caretta caretta: A strategy for biomonitoring contamination in sea turtles?

• We analyzed 11 elements in one carapace of Caretta caretta.
• The distribution of the elements in carapace was studied.
• Mapping elements as a strategy for biomonitoring contamination in sea turtles.
• Some elements resulted representative for central and lateral areas of carapace.

This study analyzed the carapace distribution of Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mg, Mn, Pb, Sb, U, V and Zn by GF-AAS and ICP-AES in one specimen of Caretta caretta from Mediterranean Sea. Calcium, Mg, Mn, Pb, U, Zn were mainly distributed in the central area while Cd, Cr, Cu, Sb, V in lateral areas. Cadmium, Cr, Mg, Mn, Sb, U and V were different between lateral areas.The different distribution may be related to several exposures during lifetime and/or the shell ossification during growth. Carapace may be a suitable matrix for metal biomonitoring, however, further studies are required to confirm these findings.