Flipper Flop? Otters' 'Manhood' Bone Suffering From Dirty Water
A new study reveals toxic oil waste products are harming the actual penis bones of otters.
Gizmodo Earther reports Canadian researchers from McMaster University say the male organs of river otters are becoming more brittle.
It was already known that exposure to compounds found in crude oil can decrease some animals’ reproductive success.
River otters are a 'sentinel species,' meaning they often are affected by exposure to contaminants before other species register those changes.
The authors say that Alberta otters’ weakened penis bones could mess with their ability to reproduce, which could greatly impact the food chain.
To make matters worse, they fear that tar sands pollution could have an effect on humans’ reproductive systems as well.
Gizmodo Earther reports Canadian researchers from McMaster University say the male organs of river otters are becoming more brittle.
It was already known that exposure to compounds found in crude oil can decrease some animals’ reproductive success.
River otters are a 'sentinel species,' meaning they often are affected by exposure to contaminants before other species register those changes.
The authors say that Alberta otters’ weakened penis bones could mess with their ability to reproduce, which could greatly impact the food chain.
To make matters worse, they fear that tar sands pollution could have an effect on humans’ reproductive systems as well.