Assessment of genotoxic damage by the comet assay in white storks (Ciconiaciconia) after the Donana Ecological Disaster

Single cell gel electrophoresis, the so-called 'Comet' assay, was performed as a genotoxicity test in white storks sampled in an area heavily contamin ated after the ecological disaster in south western Spain, This disaster oc curred as a consequence of a massive toxic spillage of acid waste rich in h eavy metals that impacted on the Donana National Park. The importance of th is protected area as a breeding and wintering site for many endangered bird species makes this analysis of DNA damage of special interest. Our results clearly show that white storks born in the contaminated area 1 year after the toxic spill bear a high burden of genetic damage as compared with contr ol individuals. The possible implications for future survival as well as re productive rate are discussed.