The decreased calcium content in the shells of fish-eating birds was a result of bioaccumulation of pesticides in the food chain.

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Bioaccumulation occurs when a chemical builds up in the tissue of organisms as it moves up the food chain. Fish-eating birds, such as eagles and ospreys, can accumulate high levels of pesticides in their bodies from consuming contaminated fish. This can result in reduced calcium content in their eggshells, making them thinner and more vulnerable to breaking during incubation.

The Decreased Calcium Content in the Shells of Fish-Eating Birds