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4487550 
Journal Article 
Effects of White Phosphorus on Mallard Reproduction 
Vann, SL; Sparling, DW; Ottinger, M 
2000 
Yes 
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry
ISSN: 0730-7268
EISSN: 1552-8618 
Allen Press, Inc., 810 East Tenth St. Lawrence KS 66044 
HOBOKEN 
19 
10 (Oct 2000) 
2525. 
English 
WOS:000089676600019 
The effects of white phosphorus on mallard reproduction were studied using the percentage of fertile eggs, the percentage of fertile eggs that hatched, the frequency of ducklings with teratogenic defects, and the laying patterns of female birds as endpoints. Hormone levels were also examined. At 2.0 and 2.6 mg/kg, obvious signs of toxicity, including ataxia and shaking, were induced in adult birds. Mortality was reduced substantially or eliminated when females were given doses of either 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg, even with a greater number of doses. The most obvious reproductive effect was a very rapid and long-lasting reduction of egg laying at all dose levels. Abrupt cessation of egg production was noted at white P doses of 1.0 mg/kg and above. Teratogenic effects were observed in ducklings from treated adult females, with abnormalities including skeletal malformations, edema, and hydrocephaly. In treated males, fertility of eggs was not affected, but testosterone levels were decreased. 
REPRODUCTION, BIRD; BIRTH DEFECTS, BIRD; DOSE RESPONSE PROFILES; TERATOGENIC AGENTS; DUCKS; PHOSPHORUS; HORMONES