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Heptachlor epoxide in marine mammals
The Science of the Total Environment
|May 1, 1981
Summary
Heptachlor epoxide was detected in harbour seals and white-beaked dolphins. Levels found were significantly lower than polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in marine mammals and fish.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Marine Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like heptachlor epoxide pose risks to marine ecosystems.
- Monitoring POPs in marine mammals is crucial for assessing ecosystem health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm and quantify heptachlor epoxide in harbour seals and white-beaked dolphins.
- To compare heptachlor epoxide levels with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in marine wildlife.
Main Methods:
- Chemical derivatization and mass spectrometry were used for confirmation.
- Gas chromatography with an electron capture detector was employed for quantification.
- Analysis was performed on a WCOT CP-Sil 7 column.
Main Results:
- Heptachlor epoxide presence confirmed in seals and dolphins.
- Detected heptachlor epoxide levels were up to 1.7 mg/kg (on a fat basis).
- Heptachlor epoxide concentrations were approximately 200 times lower than PCB levels.
Conclusions:
- Heptachlor epoxide is present in harbour seals and white-beaked dolphins.
- PCB levels are significantly higher than heptachlor epoxide levels in these marine mammals.
- Similar concentration ratios between heptachlor epoxide and PCBs were observed in fish from the same area.