Aliphatic hydrocarbons in wolf tissue samples from Galicia (N.W. Spain).

ABSTRACT

We have investigated the levels of aliphatic hydrocarbons, UCM and CPI in wolves from Galicia (Spain). The n-alkanes distribution was characterized by a predominance of even carbon n-alkanes. Suprarenal and muscle tissues contained more aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHs) than spleen, liver or kidney. The AHs which were detected were found most frequently in adults and males. The mean concentrations of C10, C33, C34, C35 and C36 were the lowest of all compounds quantified (< 1 mg/kg lipid weight) and C12, C14, C16 and C22 were the highest (> 14.2 mg/kg lipid weight). The presence of phytane and UCM (> 3) together to PR/C17 and PH/C18 ratios (both < 1) suggest a large contribution of crude oils.