Petroleum hydrocarbons in invertebrates at the base of marine food webs in Baffin Bay (NGMP ID EC13)

The purpose of this study is to establish baseline concentrations and chemical profiles of petroleum hydrocarbons (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and alkanes) in entry level food web organisms across Baffin Bay. The overall objective of ths research is to assess any spatial variability in hydrocarbon concentrations and profiles in benthic/pelagic species, particularly between those samples collected at documented oil seep areas versus control sites and to determine the contributing sources of the hydrocarbons. Such data will enable the long-term monitoring of hydrocarbons with time and provide territorial capacity to assess quality of the marine environment and the wild marine food supply.