The Content of Mineral Elements and Heavy Metals in the Hair of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus L.) from Selected Regions of Poland

The aim of the research was to determine the influence of geographical location on the content of mineral elements (Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe, Ca, Mg, Na, K) and heavy metals (Pb and Cd) in the hair of red deer (Cervus elaphus L.). The experimental material comprised samples of hair collected from 2-3-year-old male red deer from three Polish provinces: Kuyavian-Pomeranian (n=15), Lesser Poland (n=15) and Masovian (n=15). The analysis of content of Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe, Ca and Mg was conducted by means of atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), and in the case of Na and K – of atomic emission spectroscopy (AES). The content of Pb and Cd was determined in a certified laboratory, using electrothermal atomic absorption spectroscopy (ASS-ET). The highest concentration of Pb was noted in the samples from the Masovian Province and Cd – from the Lesser Poland Province. The differences between the regions in terms of the content of quantity elements and essential trace elements were statistically significant and showed much variety (with the exception of Cu). The analysis of correlation revealed positive and statistically important interactions between numerous elements, among which the most significant were observed in the pairs Na-K (r_xy=0.77; p<0.01) and Cu-Mn (r_xy=0.82; p<0.01). Only one negative and high statistically important relationship was noted – in the case of Cu and Zn (r_xy= -0.71; p<0.01).