Polychlorinated biphenyl residues in deep-sea fish from Mediterranean Sea

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in three bathyal chondrichthyes from the North-Western Mediterranean Sea

The deep-sea can act as a sink for legacy contaminants such as organochlorines (OCs), causing damages in its inhabitants for their persistence and their prolonged effects in the organisms. HCB, DDT and its isomers, and 28 PCBs congeners were detected in muscle and embryonic tissues of three deep-sea chondrichthyes Chimaera monstrosa (n = 16), Dalatias licha (n = 12) and Etmopterus spinax (n = 51) sampled in Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Sea (Mediterranean Sea). Contaminant distribution in E. spinax and C. monstrosa was PCBs > DDTs ≫ HCB while in D. licha was DDTs > PCBs ≫ HCB. Statistically significant differences were highlighted in OC levels among the species, but no such differences were found among sexes. Ratios between DDT isomers highlighted an historical input of the pesticide in the environment. For the first time was also demonstrated maternal transfer in deep water chondrichthyes, specifically in E. spinax where was highlighted that transfer of contaminants increases with increasing compound's Log Kow.

Non-target analysis of organohalogenated contaminants in deep-sea fishes from the Mediterranean Sea by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry

The enhanced separation power and identification capabilities make comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC - ToF MS) a valuable instrumental alternative for non-target analysis (NTA). In the present study, GC × GC - ToF MS has been used for the NTA of chlorine- and bromine-containing compounds in composite livers of two scarcely investigated Mediterranean deep-sea fish species, hollowsnout grenadier (Coelorinchus caelorhincus) and roughsnout grenadier (Trachyrhinchus trachyrhinchus). Attention focused on the identification of organohalogenated compounds with structural characteristics similar to those of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). In total, 116 Cl-, Br- and mixed Cl/Br-compounds were either positively or tentatively identified in the analyzed liver samples. Up to 88 of these compounds were legacy POPs, being polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorinated pesticides (OCPs) the most abundant and frequently detected families. The other 28 identified POP-like compounds were analytes not considered by current regulation and environmental monitoring programs, including, among others, degradation products of specific OCPs, naturally produced organohalogen compounds and several perchlorinated diethyldiphenylmethane-derivatives whose presence in the investigated species is reported here for the first time. The presence of other naturally occurring brominated and mixed halogenated compounds in these fish species is also described for the first time. Our results also showed differences in the accumulation profile of the identified compounds in both species. Thereby, anthropogenic POPs showed higher relative abundances in the livers of roughsnout grenadiers than those in hollowsnout grenadiers, while for naturally occurring compounds the opposite trend or similar levels were found in both species.

First insight into accumulation of characteristics and tissue distribution of PCBs, PBDEs, and other BFRs in the living Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis)

Persistent organic pollutants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and other brominated flame retardants, were detected in the liver, muscle, and ovary tissues of the Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis) incidentally caught around Gangga Island, North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, on November 5, 2014. Concentrations of total PCBs (209 congeners, 300-2600 ng g^-1 lipid weight) in all tissues showed higher than those of PBDEs (41 congeners, 3.9-6.3 ng g^-1 lw) and BTBPE (1.1-3.6 ng g^-1 lw). The tissue-specific PCB and PBDE profiles were likely due to differences in the lipid composition. Toxic equivalent (TEQ) values of dioxin-like PCBs in coelacanth tissues were lower than the benchmark values for early-life fish. However, compared with the data reported for deep-sea fishes in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, the relatively high concentrations of PCBs detected in this study raise concerns regarding Indonesian coelacanth conservation and habitat conditions.

Poaching of endangered species in Mediterranean Sea: Alopias vulpinus

A thresher shark poached by fishermen in the stretch of sea between the island of Ponza and the coast of Terracina (Lazio, Central Italy, Mediterranean Sea) and confiscated by the Italian health authorities was evaluated for the presence of chemical contaminants. Hg mean concentration of 2.1 mg kg^-1 was found in muscle; speciation analysis confirmed it was almost in the toxic organic form of MeHg (2.0 mg kg^-1). The Se:Hg molar ratio was <1 not protective against the toxic effect of Hg. ¹³⁷Cs was detected at a mean concentration of 0.53 Bq kg^-1, and ⁴⁰K, radioisotope of natural origin was found at 91 Bq kg^-1. Dioxins and PCBs were found in the common thresher shark at mean concentrations of 0.012 and 0.088 pg TEQ-WHO g^-1 w.w. while NDL PCBs at 4.5 ng g^-1 w.w., lower than limits set by European Regulation. The major concern is constituted by the presence of Hg twice the maximum limit set by EU Regulation, then the consumption of thresher shark flesh should be strongly discouraged.

First evidence of persistent organic contaminants as potential anthropogenic stressors in the Barndoor Skate Dipturus laevis

Although exploited populations of elasmobranchs may be able to recover from fishing pressure, there is little information regarding the Barndoor Skate's ability to cope with other anthropogenic stressors such as organic contaminants (OCs). Legacy OCs were measured in liver, muscle and ova from fourteen Barndoor Skates with mature skates having significantly greater mean concentrations of OCs than immature skates, demonstrating bioaccumulation with age. Using Toxic Equivalency Factors, skates were found to have levels of PCBs that have been shown to elicit negative physiological responses in other fishes and these results highlight the need for future studies to investigate the potential impacts that bioaccumulated organic contaminants have on the recovery and conservation of this vulnerable species.

Comparative analysis of selected semi-persistent and emerging pollutants in wild-caught fish and aquaculture associated fish using Bogue (Boops boops) as sentinel species

The marine environment acts as a sink for diverse anthropogenic pollutants, although the environmental contamination may be non-uniformly distributed. In recent decades, the aquaculture sector has experienced a steady growth postulating as a good alternative for seafood production. However, a social debate exits about the differential level of pollutants in wild and farmed species. This study was designed to evaluate the level of pollutants in a sentinel species: Bogue (Boops boops) associated and non-associated to fish-farm cages. A total of 82 chemical substances were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, including persistent (polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs)), semi-persistent (bromodiphenyl ethers (BDEs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)), and emerging pollutants (such as organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) and UV-filters). In general, aquaculture-associated bogues showed lower levels of semi-persistent and emerging pollutants than wild-caught fish, especially when sums were considered. Thus, sum of BDEs was significantly lower in the aquaculture group (p=0.01). A similar trend was also observed for benzo(a)anthracene, the UV-filter 2-ethylhexyl-p-methoxycinnamate and some OPFRs. In the case of persistent pollutants, the sum of dioxin-like PCBs and sum of DDTs were lower in the group of wild-caught bogues (p=0.034 and p=0.003, respectively) than in aquaculture-associated bogues, as previously described for some aquaculture species. Fish feed appear as an important factor in the uptake of such substances suggesting a diet intervention to reduce their levels in the aquaculture products. Another interesting result is that for almost all chemical substances analyzed, bogues captured near sewage outfalls showed the highest levels of pollutants, pointing out the need of stringent measures for wastewater treatment units discharging in coastal areas. On the light of these results, further research in specific farmed and wild fish species in relation to their dietary value and pollutant's levels seems to be mandatory.

Bioaccumulation of metals and PCBs in Raja clavata

The goal of this study was to assess stable isotopes profiles, metals concentration and PCBs in Raja clavata muscle and liver, according to sex and size, and to elucidate its suitability as a Mid-Atlantic biomonitor. The results reflected bioaccumulation and suggested biomagnification processes for As and Hg in muscle tissue. Cd, Cu and Zn were detected in high amounts in liver, Cr, Mn and Rb were relatively stable and low, Pb was not detected and Sr was present in muscle at high levels, decreasing with length. Hg and Se were strongly correlated, suggesting a mitigation role. Both tissues presented low concentrations of PCBs, especially the dioxin-like congeners, although always higher in liver and not correlated with size. None of these contaminants exceed EU legislated limits. However, they need to be monitored given study area's location, volcanic nature and the expected increase of anthropogenic activity related to future prospective mining activities and the establishment of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) between Europe and the USA.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides in European hake (Merluccius merluccius) muscle from the Western Mediterranean Sea

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were quantified in muscle tissue of European hake, an ecologically and commercially important species. Samples were collected from the Western Mediterranean, in seven different stations at different depths and a batch was bought in a local market. PCBs are the dominant pollutants, but the overall concentrations do not show significant differences between the different specimens analyzed from various locations, with the exception of the concentration of PCBs at a shallow station close to the River Besòs mouth. This probably suggests that generally the pollutants in hake from the Western Mediterranean derive from historical and non-point sources. The occurrence of pollutants is widespread in the samples but their concentration is below recommended legal limits for fish or other foodstuffs.

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants in relation to trophic level in deep sea fish

The bioaccumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in deep sea fish from the Rockall fishing area was investigated. Predator and prey species were analysed for stable isotopes, fatty acids, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). δ(15)N indicated that black scabbard was at the highest trophic level and the prey the lowest. The fatty acid signatures indicated that black scabbard and black dogfish fed at a higher trophic level compared to the roundnose grenadier. PCBs and PBDEs were detected in the liver of all three predator species. PCB concentrations were significantly higher in the roundnose grenadier, possibly due to their longer life span. PCB concentrations were compared to OSPAR assessment criteria, concentrations were above background but below Environmental Assessment Criteria for all but one congener. PCB concentrations were below food safety levels in the flesh, but exceeded the limit for liver in the roundnose grenadier and black dogfish.

Temporal and spatial variation in polychlorinated biphenyl chiral signatures of the Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) and its arctic marine food web

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) chiral signatures were measured in Greenland sharks (Somniosus microcephalus) and their potential prey in arctic marine food webs from Canada (Cumberland Sound) and Europe (Svalbard) to assess temporal and spatial variation in PCB contamination at the stereoisomer level. Marine mammals had species-specific enantiomer fractions (EFs), likely due to a combination of in vivo biotransformation and direct trophic transfer. Greenland sharks from Cumberland Sound in 2007-2008 had similar EFs to those sharks collected a decade ago in the same location (PCBs 91, 136 and 149) and also similar to their conspecifics from Svalbard for some PCB congeners (PCBs 95, 136 and 149). However, other PCB EFs in the sharks varied temporally (PCB 91) or spatially (PCB 95), suggesting a possible spatiotemporal variation in their diets, since biotransformation capacity was unlikely to have varied within this species from region to region or over the time frame studied.

Organochlorine residues (PCBs and DDTs) in two torpedinid species' liver from the Southeastern Mediterranean Sea

PURPOSE

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and PCB congeners accumulation profile were measured in the liver of two torpedinid species (Torpedo nobiliana and Torpedo marmorata) from the Mediterranean Sea (Adriatic Sea) in order to investigate the relative toxicological impact of these highly toxic PCBs in the organisms in question.

METHODS

A Thermo Trace GC connected to a Thermo PolarisQ MS operated in electron impact ionization (EI) mode was used to quantify PCBs and DDTs. The method performance was assessed through participation in interlaboratory studies organized by QUASIMEME.

RESULTS

PCBs emerged as the most abundant pollutants, followed by DDTs. Contaminant load was higher in T. nobiliana (PCBs, 1,040 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 234 ng g(-1) lipid weight) than in T. marmorata (PCBs, 434 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 78 ng g(-1) lipid weight). PCB 118, 138, 153, and 180 were the dominant congeners accounting for over 95.0% of the total PCBs. Among DDTs, p,p'-DDE was detected in both species, always with a greater concentration than other pesticides.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides, for the first time, data regarding levels of organochlorine contamination in torpedinid species from the Mediterranean Sea. The comparability of TEQ levels with those encountered in predators at top of trophic chains constitutes a warning signal that should not be underestimated.

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants in deep water fish from waters to the west of Scotland

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants [polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)] along with total lipid, were measured in the liver and muscle of three species of deep water fish (black scabbard, black dogfish (liver only) and roundnose grenadier) collected from the Rockall fishing area, to the west of Scotland, between 2006 and 2008. Both contaminant groups were detected in the muscle and liver, with concentrations of PCBs being higher than PBDEs. There were no significant differences in the PCB or PBDE concentrations between the three species, or different sampling locations in the Rockall fishing area. PCB concentrations (ΣICES (International Council for the Exploration of the Sea)7 PCBs) greater than 500 μg kg(-1) lipid weight were found in 26 of the 106 liver samples. PCB concentrations were compared to OSPAR assessment criteria, concentrations were above background but below Environmental Assessment Criteria. Estimated Toxic Equivalent (TEQ) concentrations, calculated using published models, in the fish muscle and liver indicated that consumption of deep water fish is unlikely to represent a risk to human health. The high squalene content in some of the black dogfish liver necessitated an additional clean-up step, involving gel permeation chromatography, when analyzing for PBDEs. Concentrations of PBDEs were low with many congeners being below detection limits, particularly in the muscle. There are currently no assessment criteria available for PBDEs. Furthermore, there is only very limited data on PBDEs in deep water fish. However, the concentrations observed in this study were similar to the concentrations recently reported in Mediterranean deep water fish.

Concentration of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides in some edible fish species from the Shadegan Marshes (Iran)

Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and analogs, hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) and hexachlorobenzene (HCB), were determined in 8 fish species collected during October and November 2007 from the largest Iranian wetland, the Shadegan Marshes. Fishes were selected on the basis of their importance in the local diet and feeding behavior. In all samples, OCPs were found in higher concentrations than PCBs. Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) had the highest OCs (1680 ng/g lipid wt.), with DDTs being most prevalent and p,p'-DDE contributing by 53-88% to the total DDTs. In all samples, OCs were found in order of DDTs>HCHs>PCBs>HCB. The highest concentration of HCHs was found in common carp (410±180 ng/g lipid wt.) and α-HCH was the predominant compound among HCH isomers (range 70-90%, mean 82%) in all species. All samples contained PCBs and CB 28 (37%) and CB 52 (26%) were the most frequently occurring congeners. common barbel (Barbus barbulus) (70±17 ng/g lipid wt.) exhibited the highest concentrations of HCB. OC levels in fish were relatively low, but the levels of several OCs in some of our specimens exceed the guidelines for food safety issued by the European Union (EU) and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Concentration of DL-PCBs in fish from market of Parma city (north Italy): estimated human intake

The concentrations of 12 congeners of non-ortho and mono-ortho dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (ΣDL-PCB) were measured in 30 fish samples from Parma markets by GC/MS technique. The samples were randomly purchased, choosing the species commonly found in supermarkets. The concentration of DL-PCBs estimated remained under the fixed Italian limit of 4 pg g(-1)ww WHO-TEQ (World Health Organization-Toxic Equivalent) in the major part of the samples, so the situation seems to be not at a level sufficient to pose a risk to human health of the Parma population. The medium daily intake for DL-PCBs for Italian consumers (Parma) was also estimated. This value generally resulted minor than 2 pg g(-1) ww WHO-TEQ kg(-1) body weight, exceeding only in four cases: eel, smooth hound, starry smooth hound and tuna.

Impact of pesticides residue and heavy metals on lipids and fatty acids composition of some seafoods of Red Sea (KSA)

Seafood is considered by nutritionists to be a high source of omega 3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFAs) which are involved in prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the present study is firstly to detect the presence of organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals in some fresh seafood of Red Sea commonly used in KSA in relation to its contents. It was found that the fatty acids 18:2n-6, 18:3n-6, 18:3n-9 was statistically significantly higher in fresh samples than frozen ( p < 0.05), smoked ( p < 0.01) and canned fishes ( p < 0.05), respectively. Total lipids and cholesterol content of canned and smoked fishes were significantly higher than fresh and frozen samples ( p < 0.01, <0.05 and p < 0.01, <0.05). Vitamin D was found to be lower in frozen samples than fresh, smoked and canned ( p < 0.05 for each). While vitamin A was higher in fresh and smoked as compared with frozen and canned samples. No organochlorine tested were detected in either fresh or processed samples (smoked, frozen and canned). Among the heavy metals, the highest lead level was detected in fresh and smoked samples as compared with frozen and canned samples. No correlation was found between organochlorine compounds in fish and the corresponding levels in fatty acids. We concluded that, all fishes are safe for uses but it is preferable to use fresh samples due to its high content of PUFA and low lead level.

Accumulation of organochlorine contaminants in loggerhead sea turtles, Caretta caretta, from the eastern Adriatic Sea

We analyzed 15 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and five organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in fat tissue of 27 loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) from eastern Adriatic Sea with the curved carapace length ranging from 25.0 to 84.5 cm. The PCB profile was dominated by hexa- and hepta-chlorinated congeners, with PCB-153 (median: 114.9 ng g⁻¹ wet mass), PCB-138 (80.0 ng g⁻¹ w.m.), and PCB-180 (26.7 ng g⁻¹ w.m.) detected with the highest levels. Toxic mono-ortho congeners PCB-118, PCB-105 and PCB-180 with dioxin-like toxicity were found in > 70% samples. 4,4'-DDE (81.0 ng g⁻¹ w.m.) prevailed the OCP signature, accounting for 80% of the total DDTs. A significant increasing trend in accumulation with size was found for PCB-52 (r(s) = 0.512, p < 0.01) and PCB-114 (r(s) = 0.421, p < 0.05). Comparison of our results with organochlorine contaminant (OC) pattern in some prey taxa suggest that contamination occurs primarily through the food web, with biomagnification factors of 0.14-6.99 which were positively correlated with the octanol-water partition coefficient (logK(ow); p < 0.05). This study, based upon a fairly large sample size collected mostly from incidentally captured animals over a short time period (June 2001-November 2002), present a temporal snapshot of OC contamination in wild, free-ranging loggerheads from Adriatic feeding grounds and provide a baseline for monitoring the regional OC trends in this endangered species.

Hepatic biomarkers of xenobiotic metabolism in eighteen marine fish from NW Mediterranean shelf and slope waters in relation to some of their biological and ecological variables

A suite of hepatic biomarkers currently used in pollution monitoring were measured in eighteen common fish species, comprising five orders, eleven families of teleosts and two elasmobranchs. The sampling was carried out seasonally in front of the Barcelona coast (NW Mediterranean) during 2007. The hepatic enzymes considered were the activities of catalase, glutathione reductase, ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase, carboxylesterase and glutathione S-transferase. As markers at higher levels of biological organization, feeding preferences (on benthic, suprabenthic or zooplanktonic species), swimming capability, stomach fullness and trophic level were considered. Significant species differences were found among all the biochemical parameters analysed, although no relationships among the biomarkers themselves were evidenced. In general enzymatic activities were much higher in teleosts than in elasmobranchs, and in perciforms than in gadiforms. Seasonality was observed in some species with higher activities usually corresponding to the winter period. No site related differences were observed in the two selected sites, which differ over a small pollution gradient. A multivariate canonical Correspondence analysis (CCA) was performed on shelf and slope species separately to relate biochemical markers with ecological variables. CCA revealed that for shelf species, EROD was positively related to benthos feeding as well as trophic level, while on the slope the clearest association was between suprabenthos feeders and trophic level. Our present results, including seasonality, slightly differ from former observations (Solé et al., 2009a) and reveal a more significant role of the ecological variables in controlling biomarkers expression in fish from the shelf.

Detection and quantitative analysis of organochlorine compounds (PCBs and DDTs) in deep sea fish liver from Mediterranean Sea

BACKGROUND, AIM AND SCOPE

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) concentrations were determined in the liver of two deep sea fish species, Mediterranean slimehead and blackfin sorcerer, from the Adriatic Sea (southeastern Mediterranean Sea).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The examination of congener profiles showed that hexachlorinated molecules were dominant (hexa-CBs, 55.3-56.2%), followed by penta-CBs (21.5-21.8%) and hepta-PCB 180 (14.9-16.0%). PCB 138, 153 and 180 were the prominent congeners accounting for 69.3% of the total PCBs. Among the compounds of DDT, p,p'-DDE was the most dominant molecule (Mediterranean slimehead, 86.6%; blackfin sorcerer, 92.8%), demonstrating the old age of these compounds in the environment. In both species, PCB contents were higher than those of DDTs. Contaminant load was higher in Mediterranean slimehead (PCBs, 1,086 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 799 ng g(-1) lipid weight) than in blackfin sorcerer (PCBs, 561 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 224 ng g(-1) lipid weight).

CONCLUSION

The high ratios SigmaPCBs/SigmaDDTs indicated predominantly industrial versus agrarian activities in the area. Dioxins toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations (8.1-18.7 pg TEQ per gram wet weight) reached those encountered in marine organisms at higher levels in the trophic chain, revealing the onerous status of contamination by PCBs in Mediterranean deep sea biota.

Comparison of stable isotope composition and inorganic and organic contaminant levels in wild and farmed bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus, in the Mediterranean Sea

Stable isotope composition (delta(13)C and delta(15)N) and persistent pollutants, including heavy metals (Hg, Cd, Pb, As, Cu, Zn) and organochlorine compounds (PCBs, HCB and p,p'-DDE), were measured in muscle and liver tissues of wild and farmed bluefin tuna to investigate the changes occurring during the farming period and to assess the quality, in terms of contaminants, of the final product. At the end of farming, the food supplied was clearly integrated into the tuna tissues as derived from stable isotope signatures, and, contrarily to the literature findings obtained for other species, farmed tuna showed slight variations in persistent elements and chemical compounds in comparison with wild fish. The low tissue turnover of long-lived adult tuna together with the short farming period appeared to act to preserve the initial low contamination levels in the absence of new, elevated contamination sources (feed and environment), determining an acceptable quality of the final aquaculture product.

Organohalogen compounds in deep-sea fishes from the western North Pacific, off-Tohoku, Japan: Contamination status and bioaccumulation profiles

Twelve species of deep-sea fishes collected in 2005 from the western North Pacific, off-Tohoku, Japan were analyzed for organohalogen compounds. Among the compounds analyzed, concentrations of DDTs and PCBs (up to 23,000 and 12,400 ng/g lipid wt, respectively) were the highest. The present study is the foremost to report the occurrence of brominated flame retardants such as PBDEs and HBCDs in deep-sea organisms from the North Pacific region. Significant positive correlations found between delta(15)N ( per thousand) and PCBs, DDTs and PBDEs suggest the high biomagnification potential of these contaminants in food web. The large variation in delta(13)C (per thousand) values observed between the species indicate multiple sources of carbon in the food web and specific accumulation of hydrophobic organohalogen compounds in benthic dwelling carnivore species like snubnosed eel. The results obtained in this study highlight the usefulness of deep-sea fishes as sentinel species to monitor the deep-sea environment.

Polychlorinated biphenyl and organochlorine pesticide contamination signatures in deep-sea fish from the Mediterranean Sea

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) and OCP concentrations were determined in the livers of two deep-sea fish species, roughsnout grenadier and hollowsnout grenadier, from the Adriatic Sea. In both species, contaminant concentrations were in the following order: PCBs>DDTs>>HCB. Contaminant load was higher in roughsnout grenadier (PCB: 12,327ngg(-1); DDTs: 5357ngg(-1); HCB: 13.1ngg(-1)) than in hollowsnout grenadier (PCB: 1234ngg(-1); DDTs: 763ngg(-1); HCB 6.3ngg(-1)). PCB patterns were dominated by higher chlorinated congeners (hexa-CBs: 50.3-52.1%, hepta-CBs: 29.6-35.5%, penta-CBs: 8.0-11.1% and octa-CBs :5.2-5.4%). PCBs 138, 153 180 and 187 were the most abundant. Regarding the DDT pattern, p,p'-DDE was prevalent in both species (roughsnout grenadier: 99.7%, hollowsnout grenadier: 90%), suggesting no recent DDT input. In both species, the total 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations (roughsnout grenadier: mean 43.77pg/g, hollowsnout grenadier: mean 20.49pg/g), calculated from non- and mono-ortho PCBs, reached those encountered in marine organisms at higher levels in the trophic chain.

Oxidative stress and apoptosis of Carassius auratus lymphocytes induced by nonplanar (PCB153) and coplanar (PCB169) polychlorinated biphenyl congeners in vitro

Among all the 209 kinds of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) congeners, nonplanar and coplanar PCB congeners have different levels of toxicity on mammal cells such as neuronal cells, but little is known about their toxicity on fish cells although PCB congeners usually have high bioaccumulation abilities in the detected fish bodies. This study showed that 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexacholorbiphenyl (PCB153, nonplanar congener) and 3,3',4,4',5,5'-hexacholorbiphenyl (PCB 169, coplanar congener) caused apoptosis on the isolated crucian carp (Carassius auratus) lymphocytes and the induced cytotoxicity was structure-dependent. According to the laser confocal microscope observations, apoptosis was clearly distinguished by condensation of nucleus, shrinkage and formation of apoptotic bodies. DNA fragmentation was detected by agarose gel electrophoresis. These typical morphological and biochemical characteristics indicate the occurrence of apoptosis on fish lymphocytes. According to the flow cytometry analysis, after the cells were exposed to 10 micromol/L PCBs for 3 h, the apoptotic percentage induced by PCB153 was 23.41%, while that induced by PCB169 was even higher (31.03%). Furthermore, incubating PCBs with fish lymphocytes enhanced levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), clearly indicating the presence of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Our data also demonstrate that the different cytotoxic effects induced by coplanar and nonplanar PCBs were correlated with their structural characteristics and the coplanar congener was more cytotoxic than nonplanar congener. This study suggests that cytotoxicity mechanisms of the PCB congeners on fish lymphocytes depend on their planarity and chemical structures.

Anthropogenic and naturally occurring organobrominated compounds in two deep-sea fish species from the Mediterranean Sea

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were investigated in 15 composite liver samples from two deep-sea fish species, the hollowsnout grenadier (Trachyrinchus trachyrinchus, TT) and the roughsnout grenadier (Coelorhynchus coelorynchus, CC). Mean concentrations of sum tri- to hepta-BDEs were higher in CC species than in the TT species (16.9 vs. 4.5 ng/g lipid weight (lw), respectively). BDE 47 and BDE 100 were the major congeners in both species. Methoxylated PBDEs (MeO-PBDEs), reported as being naturally produced in marine environments, were also measured in all samples. Similar to those of PBDEs, mean concentrations of sum MeO-PBDEs (sum congeners 2'-MeO-BDE 68 and 6-MeO-BDE 47) were higher in the CC species (28.9 vs 6.6 ng/g lw, respectively). Interestingly, polybrominated hexahydroxanthene derivatives (PBHDs) had the highest contribution to the total load of organobromines in the deep-sea fish samples. Contraryto those of PBDEs and MeO-PBDEs, the mean concentrations of PBHDs were higher in the TT species (7040 vs. 530 ng/g lw, respectively). Furthermore, an unusual profile was seen in the TT species, for which a tetrabrominated BHD isomer was the predominant isomer (up to 98% of the sum PBHDs). This differs from the profiles of PBHDs dominated by a tribrominated BHD isomer reported until now in the literature. The mixed halogenated monoterpene (MHC-1) and 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA) were detected as well, albeit at lower concentration (<5 ng/g lw), supporting the hypothesis that these two natural products are rather abundant in shallow waters.

Effects of persistent organic pollutants on the thyroid function of the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) from the Aegean sea, is it an endocrine disruption?

We evaluated the alterations of organochlorinated compounds such as polychlorobiphenyls (PCB), dichloro-diphenyl-dichloroethylene (DDE) and dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT) on the thyroid in wild and cultured sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) at environmental concentrations. These compounds influence the endocrine system of many fish species and are qualified as endocrine disruptors. The thyroid seems to be a target organ. Two alteration endpoints: the thyroid histology and the muscular thyroid hormone concentrations, were used simultaneously. High concentrations in PCBs and DDT were detected in muscles, supporting the idea that the Mediterranean fauna could be more polluted than the Atlantic fauna. The high abundance of DDE indicates a progressive degradation of remnant DDT load and the absence of new inputs in this area. Aquaculture sea bass shows a significant higher amount of pollutants on fresh weight basis (especially PCBs) in their muscles compared to the wild sea bass. Those differences may be related mainly to the contaminations of diet. Thyroid parameters vary between wild and aquaculture sea bass, wild sea bass were characterized by higher follicle diameters, epithelial cell heights and muscular T(4) concentrations. A significant relationship between persistent organic pollutants (muscular PCBs and DDT concentration) and the different thyroid parameters (diameters of follicles, epithelial cell heights and muscular T(4) levels) could be observed, which support the hypothesis that these compounds have an adverse impact on thyroid morphometry and function.

Persistent organic pollutants (PCBs and DDTs) in small size specimens of bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) from the Mediterranean Sea (Ionian Sea)

The concentration levels and pattern distribution of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (DDTs), were investigated in liver of small size specimens of bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) from Mediterranean Sea (Ionian Sea). PCB concentrations (average: 526 ng g(-1) lipid wt) were comparable with DDT levels (average: 435 ng g(-1) lipid wt). The specific analysis of PCB congeners revealed a profile dominated by hexa-, penta- and heptachlorinated congeners, while among DDTs, the compounds with the higher concentration was p,p'-DDE, constituting 91.9% of the total DDT. The total 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalent (TEQs) of coplanar PCBs, including mono- and non-ortho congeners, was 0.55 pg g(-1) wet weight with. The congeners with highest TEQs values were non-ortho congeners followed by mono-ortho ones.

Optimization of large-volume injection for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls in children's fast-food menus by low-resolution mass spectrometry

This study includes the determination of five indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (52, 101, 153, 138, and 180), six non-ortho PCBs (35, 80, 81, 77, 126, and 169), and two mono-ortho PCBs (28 and 118) in fast food for children. A freeze-dried sample of 10 g is extracted by using pressurized n-hexane in two 5 min cycles at 120 degrees C and 100 mbar. Fatty extracts were cleaned up by means of acetonitrile/n-hexane partitioning and gel-permeation chromatography. The fractionation of non-ortho, mono-ortho, and indicator PCBs was made on graphitized carbon solid-phase extraction cartridges by using n-hexane, n-hexane/toluene (99:1, v/v), and toluene as elution solvents. Gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry and large-volume injections with a programmed-temperature vaporizer (PTV-LV) were used to increase sensitivity and selectivity of the PCB determination. The PTV-LV injection settings, that is, vaporizing temperature, vaporizing time, and purge flow, were optimized by using a central composite design. A 15-40 times increased sensitivity was reached as compared with that obtained with the conventional 1 microL splitless injection. The limits of detection achieved were between 0.3 and 1.2 pg/g, and repeatability data, as relative standard deviation varied, ranged from 2 to 9% for the 0.05 ng/mL PCB level.

Influence of the chemical structure on mobility of PCB congeners in female and male sardine (Sardina pilchardus) from Portuguese coast

Concentrations of 30 polychlorinated biphenyl congeners (CBs) were determined in muscle, liver and gonad tissues of female and male sardines (Sardina pilchardus) collected in February-May 2000 and September-January 2001 from purse seine vessels operating around Peniche, Portugal. The determined CBs were aggregated in four groups (I, II, III and IV), according to similarities of their chemical structures. Muscle and liver of males contained significantly higher concentrations of groups I and II than females during the final period of spawning (February-April). A less contrast was observed for the groups III and IV. This seasonal fluctuation associated with the spawning indicates that female sardines regulate the excess of CBs sequestrated during fatten period. On the contrary, levels of groups I and II were higher in males than in females indicating slower mobility of these compounds as lipids were consumed during the final period of spawning. The deficient regulation of those CBs in muscle of male sardines can not be attributed to selective transfer to gonads and subsequent excretion. Although the full explanation was not found for the different mobility of PCBs with the gender, the results provide evidence of slower elimination of group I and II congeners in male sardines.

HCB, p,p'-DDE and PCB ontogenetic transfer and magnification in bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) from the Mediterranean Sea

The bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus (Linnaeus 1758), is biologically and economically important in the Atlantic--Mediterranean ecosystems. Bluefin tuna feed on diverse food items depending on their age, thus they occupy different trophic levels during their lifespan. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB), p,p'-DDE and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are well-known persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the Mediterranean basin. The relationship between stable isotopes of nitrogen (N) and the POP residue levels in tissues has recently increased knowledge on the link between the trophic levels and the contaminant accumulation. Trophic levels were estimated by using 15N/14N ratio (delta15N) and HCB, p,p'-DDE, and forty-three PCBs were quantified in bluefin tuna from the southern Tyrrhenian Sea. Results showed that changes in PCB and p,p'-DDE concentrations were a function of size and trophic level, while no correlations were observed for HCB. Apart from HCB and PCB nos. 101, 207, 95, 158, and 60 + 56, which did not show any significant increase per trophic level, the other PCBs and the p,p'-DDE increased significantly. The ontogenetic magnification factor of PCBs was 6.6 +/- 0.5, which was significantly (12 times) higher (p < 0.05) than the values found for p,p'-DDE (1.4) and HCB (1.4).

Sample handling strategies for the determination of persistent trace organic contaminants from biota samples

Even after emergence of most advanced instrumental techniques for the final separation, detection, identification and determination of analytes, sample handling continues to play a basic role in environmental analysis of complex matrices. In fact, sample preparation steps are often the bottleneck for combined time and efficiency in many overall analytical procedures. Thus, it is not surprising that, in the last two decades, a lot of effort has been devoted to the development of faster, safer, and more environment friendly techniques for sample extraction and extract clean up, prior to actual instrumental analysis. This article focuses on the state of the art in sample preparation of environmental solid biological samples dedicated to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) analysis. Extraction techniques such as Soxhlet extraction, sonication-assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), pressurised liquid extraction (PLE) and matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) are reviewed and their most recent applications to the determination of POPs in biota samples are provided. Additionally, classical as well as promising novel extraction/clean-up techniques such as solid phase microextraction (SPME) are also summarized. Finally, emerging trends in sample preparation able to integrate analytes extraction and their adequate clean-up are presented.

Polychlorinated biphenyls and other chlorinated organic contaminants in the tissues of Mediterranean loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta

Polychlorinated biphenyls including coplanar congeners and DDT compounds were measured in different organs and tissues (liver, kidney, lung and muscle tissue) of loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta from the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The highest levels of these compounds were found in liver (PCBs: 52.32 ng/g; DDTs: 18.27 ng/g), followed by kidney (PCBs: 19.05 ng/g; DDTs: 5.70 ng/g), lung (PCBs: 12.75 ng/g; DDTs: 3.76 ng/g ) and muscle tissue (PCBs: 4.65 ng/g; DDTs: 1.45 ng/g). PCBs revealed a profile dominated by hexa-, penta- and hepta-chlorinated congeners, while among DDTs, the compound in the greatest concentration was p,p'-DDE, (liver: 85.2%, kidney: 93.6%, lung: 86.4%, muscle tissue: 93.2%). The estimated toxic equivalents (pg TEQs/g wet wt) of non- and mono-ortho PCBs were in the range of 1.54-5.86 pg TEQs/g wet wt. Non-ortho coplanar PCB 77 accounted for more than 90% of the total TEQs leaving to mono-ortho only 2.6-6.2%.

Concentrations and composition of organochlorine contaminants in different species of cephalopod molluscs from the Italian waters (Adriatic Sea)

Persistent organochlorines, such as polychlorinated biphenyls including coplanar congeners and DDT compounds were measured in the liver of different species of mollusc cephalopods: broadtail squid (Illex coindetii), horned octopus (Eledone moschata) and spider octopus (Octopus salutii) collected in two different areas of the Adriatic Sea (central and southern Adriatic Sea). The concentration of PCBs exceeded DDT ones in horned octopus (PCBs: 617.0 ngg(-1) lipid weight, DDTs: 188.0 ngg(-1) lipid weight) and in spider octopus (PCBs: 590.0 ngg(-1) lipid weight, DDTs: 293.0 ngg(-1) lipid weight), while in broadtail squid PCB load (748.0 ngg(-1) lipid weight) was similar to those of DDTs (514.5 ngg(-1) lipid weight). No significant difference in PCB levels was observed among species, while DDT concentrations were higher in broadtail squid than in horned octopus and spider octopus. DDTs composition showed slight differences in relation to species, thought p,p'-DDE was the predominant compound in all cephalopod species (broadtail squid: 88.1%, horned octopus 94.1%, spider octopus: 97.5%). PCB isomer profiles were similar among species being hexachlorinated isomers the most abundant, followed by penta- and heptachlorobiphenyls, while tri- and tetrachlorobiphenyls made up a small percentage of the total PCB residues. Regarding coplanar congeners, non-ortho PCBs were below the detection limit in all samples and the 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations were very low. The influence of biological and ecological factors (size/weight and location) on the bioaccumulation of organochlorine compounds has been discussed.

Occurrence and accumulation of organochlorine contaminants in swordfish from Mediterranean Sea: a case study

Polychlorinated biphenyls including coplanar congeners and DDT compounds were measured in the liver of a teleost species: namely, Xiphias gladius. PCB concentrations (median: 1121 ng/g lipid wt) were comparable with DDT levels (median: 1236 ng/g lipid wt). PCBs revealed a profile dominated by hexa-, penta- and heptachlorinated congeners. Among DDTs, the compound in the greatest concentration was p,p'-DDE, representing 70% of the total DDT burden, followed by o,p'-DDT>p,p'-DDT>p,p'-DDD=o,p'-DDD. Mean total 2,3,7,8-TCDD equivalent of five coplanar PCBs was 8.83 pg/g lipid weight. The isomers with higher TEQs values were non-ortho congeners than mono-ortho ones.

Distribution characteristics of polychlorinated biphenyls in crucian carp (Carassius auratus) from major rivers in Korea

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) levels in crucian carp were determined at 20 locations along four major river systems, several small-scale rivers and a wetland in Korea. Twenty-eight congeners, ranging from tri- to hepta-CBs were detected. A gas chromatograph with a mass selective detector was used to quantify the individual PCB congeners. The objectives of this study were to investigate the levels of contamination of PCBs in freshwater fish and to observe the pattern of their distribution. The sampling locations were chosen among 31 sampling sites that are currently used as environmental residue checkpoints by the Korean Ministry of Environment. Concentrations of individual congeners ranged from not detectable (n.d.) to 0.75 ng g(-1) on a wet weight basis. The total concentrations of PCBs at each site ranged from n.d. to 5.41 ng g(-1) of wet weight. The most heavily contaminated site was the Nakdong estuary located near the Shinpyung-Janglim factory district. The PCB 153 and 138 were the principal congeners and penta- and hexa-chlorinated biphenyls comprised the main congener groups.

Concentrations of PCBs, organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals (lead, cadmium, and copper) in fish from the Drôme river: potential effects on otters (Lutra lutra)

In this study samples of ten species of fish were analyzed for concentrations of organochlorine pesticides, PCBs and heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Cu). Fish were captured using electric fishing on ten sites along the Drôme river (Rhône-Alpes region). Quantitative determination of the organochlorine and PCBs compounds was performed by gas chromatography-electron-capture detection (GC-ECD). The concentrations of heavy metals were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Samples contained detectable concentrations of lindane, PCBs, and heavy metals but at concentrations below the maximum residue limit (MRL). Non-parametric statistical analysis was performed to distinguish groups of sites with different levels of contamination. PCBs concentrations increased along the river with four groups of sites significantly different from each other. Cadmium concentrations were below the MRL. Lead contamination showed two groups significantly different and a repartition similar to PCBs. Copper contamination was correlated with the localization of vineyards. We assessed the potential effects of contamination the otter (Lutra lutra). The concentrations of all pollutants analyzed in fish sampled in this study are lower than the threshold values described in literature. The Drôme river is relatively unpolluted river, and the establishment of otter populations should not be affected by pollution.

Concentrations and hazard assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides in shark liver from the Mediterranean Sea

Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (DDTs), were determined in the liver of two different shark species Prionace glauca (blue shark) and Dalatias licha (kitefin shark) from the Mediterranean Sea. In blue shark liver, the concentrations of PCBs (2482 ngg(-1)) and DDTs (2392 ngg(-1)) were comparable, while in kitefin shark the hepatic concentrations of DDTs (4554 ngg(-1)) were significantly higher than those of PCBs (1827 ngg(-1)). Contamination levels differed between species, with kitefin shark showing consistently higher concentrations of DDTs, and blue shark higher levels of PCBs. Congener-specific PCB profiles, similar between the two species were dominated by the higher chlorinated congeners (hexachlorobiphenyls: 62.8-63.9%, penta-: 15.2-21.3%, hepta-: 13.4-14.5%) with most of the lower chlorinated congeners being absent or present at very low levels. In both species, the total 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenz-p-dioxin toxic equivalent (TEQs) concentrations (blue shark: 2.51 pg/g; kitefin shark: 1.46 pg/g) seem to be relatively modest. Regards to DDT component pattern, p,p'-DDE was dominant in the liver of both species (blue shark: 81.5%; kitefin shark: 38.0%), while the percentage composition of the other metabolites was differently characterized. The composition pattern of DDTs and the low value of p,p'-DDE/DDTs ratio in the specimens from Ionian Sea suggest that organochlorine pesticide contamination is still continuing in this marine environment.