Several factors can influence bioaccumulation, including:
- Chemical Properties: Lipophilic (fat-loving) substances tend to accumulate more because they can easily dissolve in and be stored in fatty tissues. - Rate of Metabolism: Organisms with slower metabolic rates may accumulate more toxins. - Environmental Conditions: Factors like temperature, pH, and the presence of other chemicals can affect the bioavailability and persistence of toxins. - Trophic Level: Organisms higher up in the food chain often accumulate more toxins through a process known as biomagnification.
