Lipids and stable isotopes in marine food webs in West Greenland: Trophic Relations and health implications

The potential use of lipids and stable isotopes as a source of information related to the West Greenland marine ecosystem (62˚N to 72˚N) including man, was investigated. Analysis were performed on marine tissues representing invertebrates, fish, seabirds and marine mammals as well as traditional meals from a local community. One part of the study also included minke whale samples from other part of the North Atlantic. Our results suggest a great potential in lipids and stable isotopes as a source of information in research issues related to a sustainable exploitation and management of the West Greenland marine ecosystem and to public health issues in Greenland. The results fill out an existing gap in our knowledge about the marine food web structure and trophic relations and add a potential new tool to improved management of large whales. In addition, data will be important when giving dietary recommendations, balancing the risk from the contaminants and the healthpromoting fatty acids in the traditional diet of Greenlanders.