Study Conducted in Greenland A new study has revealed a surprising link between soil chemistry and the reproductive success of wildlife. Researchers from Greenland found that in areas with high levels of copper and selenium in the soil, musk deer populations have more babies. Discuss© Ferra.ru/Kandinsky 3
This research sheds light on how essential minerals, often overlooked in environmental studies, play a critical role in animal health and reproduction. Unlike humans, who can supplement their diets with vitamins and minerals, wild animals rely on the natural environment to meet their nutritional “needs.”
The study authors followed musk deer in Greenland for 25 years, tracking their movements, changes in population and the types of plants they consumed. In addition, scientists analyzed the chemical composition of soil and vegetation in various areas. Combining this data, they found a clear correlation between copper and selenium in the soil and the number of babies born to deer.
Although copper and selenium are beneficial, the study also identified areas with elevated levels of harmful pollutants such as arsenic and lead. These areas have been associated with decreased reproductive success in animals, indicating the negative impact of pollutants on wildlife health.