But because the chemical is resistant to extreme temperatures and pressures, it takes a long time to break down. PCBs still exist in the environment, and have been known to leach from landfills into groundwater, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. High levels of the chemical are linked to poor health, including impaired immune function, infertility and increased susceptibility to cancers. “That puts her as one of the most contaminated animals on the planet in terms of PCB burden, and does raise serious questions for the long-term survivability” of the other orcas in Lulu’s pod, Brownlow told BBC News. The stranding scheme, with help from researchers at the University of Aberdeen, found that Lulu was at least 20 years old and had never reproduced, despite her maturity.

Source: Huffington Post May 06, 2017 02:08 UTC