project
ETrenne project
Global climate change is affecting Arctic ecosystems. Higher annual air temperature in the Arctic causes the thawing of permafrost (currently permanently frozen ground), leaking mineral elements into soil water that are eventually absorbed by plants that are consumed by herbivores. In parallel, ecosystems are expected to change with the modification of air temperature. On the local or regional scale, the composition of plant ecosystems should be modified, with the extension of tree species favoured over shrubby and herbaceous species. These changing ecosystems are the basis of reindeer feeding, which are the first terrestrial resource for Arctic indigenous people.
As scientists, we want to study which elements end up in reindeer, and their impact (positive or negative) on their health.
As scientists, we want to study which elements end up in reindeer, and their impact (positive or negative) on their health.
How can you help?
As herders, you can get involved in this research project by collecting samples of hair and feaces of your reindeers. A large-scale collection of theses samples will help to measure the element transfer from permafrost to Arctic ecosystems and reindeers. Hair and feaces you will collect will be sent to our laboratory in Paris, France, to assess the different mineral element concentrations (for example, copper, nickel, selenium, and lead). Of course, we undertake to communicate to you the concentrations of trace elements that we have measured in your samples.
Protocol
Fill in the form below and we will send you the material to collect your hair and faeces samples.
Hair collection
In a paper bag:
1. Brush the animal with your hand to collect a handful of hairs;
2. Put the collected hair in the resealable bag;
3. Close the bag properly and write on it: the sex and age of the animal, the date and location of your collect.
1. Brush the animal with your hand to collect a handful of hairs;
2. Put the collected hair in the resealable bag;
3. Close the bag properly and write on it: the sex and age of the animal, the date and location of your collect.
Faeces collection
In a plastic bag using gloves:
1. Turn the bag inside out and create a "glove" around your hand;
2. Collect a handful of excrement that does not touch the ground, with your hand surrounded by the bag;
3. Turn the bag inside out;
4. Close the bag properly and write on it: the date and location of your collect.
1. Turn the bag inside out and create a "glove" around your hand;
2. Collect a handful of excrement that does not touch the ground, with your hand surrounded by the bag;
3. Turn the bag inside out;
4. Close the bag properly and write on it: the date and location of your collect.
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