Chlorinated hydrocarbons in fish from the river Po (Italy)

Pesticides and PCBs levels have been determined in two species of fish from the river Po during 1979--1980 at five sampling stations in different seasons. Significant higher levels have been observed in most industrial areas. When expressed on the basis of fat content, river fish levels are higher than those reported for fish from the Adriatic sea. Using experimental BCF (bioconcentration factors), pesticides and PCB concentrations in water have been calculated from fish values, and compared with measured concentrations.