Conclusions
The following conclusions stem from the present work:
1.High pellet density and high Pb levels in soil, water and vegetation were found in hunting areas, both in natural wetlands and rice fields, of central-eastern Santa Fe province, Argentina.
2.Pb was found in both rice plants and wetland grasses, but no apparent relationship was observed between plant and soil metal contents.
3.The results strongly suggest that pellets undergo oxidation and solubilization processes, with the consequence of mobilization and homogenization through the wetland.
4.This study contributes essential information for the application of precautionary measures based on scientific arguments, and highlights the importance and urgency to substitute lead shot when hunting occurs in wetlands and other aquatic environments.