Toxicity of Ingested Bismuth Alloy Shot in Game-farm Mallards

Abstract

In a 150-day study, we tested for chronic toxicity and effects on reproduction of bismuth/tin (Bi/Sn) alloy shot dosed in game-farm mallards (Anas platyrhynchos). Histopathology of livers, kidneys, gonads, hearts, and lungs showed no significant group-related differences among 0-dosed (controls), iron (Fe)-dosed (8, No. 4, steel shot), and Bi-dosed (8, No. 4, Bi/Sn alloy shot) adult ducks or among ducklings from pairs of these dosed groups. Bi shot, under our test conditions, did not elicit toxicity in mallard ducks or affect their reproduction or offspring.