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In the Great East Japan Earthquake of 11 March 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake and accompanying tsunami struck the Tohoku region of Japan. The tsunami washed away old equipment containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) stored in the region's factories, and these PCBs may have leaked out of their casings into the marine environment. In this study, we evaluate marine PCB contamination by comparing mussels collected before (in 2005) and after (June 2011) the tsunami. PCB contamination levels were significantly elevated in mussel samples collected after the tsunami in June 2011 (3 months after the tsunami). This indicates that PCBs (specifically, formulation KC-400) leaked out of old equipment swept away by the tsunami and accumulated in mussels. PCBs were estimated to have an environmental half-life (EHL) in mussels of 4 months. Our results show that an earthquake and subsequent tsunami can cause elevated PCB contamination in the marine environment. Unlabelled Image • PCB levels in mussels increased significantly after the 2011 tsunami. • The estimated environmental half-life (EHL) of PCBs in mussels was 4 months. • PCB formulations (KC-400) leached out of capacitors swept away by the tsunami. • PCB exposure through seafood consumption was negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The MYTIAD project focused on the assessment of chemical contamination (metals, PAHs, PCBs and organochlorine pesticides) in the Adriatic coastal waters by active mussel watching. Its purpose was harmonising and standardising strategies and methodologies used to assess the contamination status of the Adriatic Sea, in the framework of the WFD, the MSFD and UNEP/MAP Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme. Data on metals pointed out some hotspots along the eastern and western Adriatic Sea coasts, with the highest values of total PAH concentration detected in Split, Trieste, and Taranto (Ionian Sea). PCB and endrin contamination was higher in the Adriatic Sea than in the western Mediterranean Sea. This is the first comprehensive overview of contamination in the Adriatic Sea with critical comparisons of related studies over the Mediterranean Sea. It provides a useful harmonised dataset to support a coordinated definition of baselines, targets and thresholds, and further management of chemical contamination. Highlights • Results provide a harmonised dataset to support the coordinated management of chemical contamination in the Adriatic Sea. • Concentrations of metals (Hg, Cd, Ni and Pb) are lower in the Adriatic Sea than in the Western Mediterranean Sea. • PCB, DDTs and endrin are higher than in the Western Mediterranean Sea. • PAHs are mostly of mixed origin, pyrogenic and petrogenic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Northwest Atlantic Ocean (NWAO), spiny dogfish ( Squalus acanthias ) is a promising commercial species following of collapse of traditional groundfish stocks. There are little available data assessing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in NWAO spiny dogfish. Here, six non-dioxin like PCB indicator congeners used in European Union regulations (EU NDL-PCB) were quantified via gas chromatography/mass spectrometry in 50 mature male spiny dogfish landed in southern New England. The average total concentration of EU NDL-PCBs was 58 ± 43 ng/g (mean ± 1 standard deviation). PCB values (corrected for co-elution) were below the 200 ng/g EU regulatory limit. Results provide first recent regional insight into the PCB content of spiny dogfish in the NWAO. However, our study offers only a snapshot of one particular dogfish population, and might not be representative for the whole NWAO. This study underscores the need for further testing in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sources and depositional history of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and 18 polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs) congeners in the Golden Horn estuary (İstanbul) were investigated using a dated sediment core for the period between 1880 and 2012. The concentrations of PAHs and PCBs were calculated for every 4 cm slices of the sediment core and ranged from 1203.5 to 3441.4 ng/g and 5.4 to 41.4 ng/g, respectively. The diagnostic ratios indicated that the maximum PAH values correspondence to combustion after a crude oil-carrying Romanian tanker (Independenta) accident in the İstanbul Strait in 1979. The historical deposition of PAHs and PCBs in the Golden Horn was influenced by municipal effluent and heavy industrial dischargers approximately 50 years. When the Silahtarağa thermal power plant (TPP) was operating, PCB pollution rose; however, after a thorough rehabilitation effort and the outlawing of PCB use in the 1990s, pollution levels significantly tended to decrease. • Rapid population growth triggered PAH and PCB pollution in Golden Horn, İstanbul. • Golden Horn sediment still bears the traces of Independenta accident since 1979. • PAH sources of the Golden Horn were identified as pyrogenic. • PCB concentrations decreased in core sediment, immediately after their ban. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, polyethylene (PE) microplastics (150–300 μm) were added to Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) feeds at 1 %, either in their present form (Virgin PE) or spiked with PCB-126 (Spiked PE). The feeds were given to juvenile cod for a 4-week period. The fish grew from 11 to 23 g with no significant difference between dietary treatments. Cod fed spiked PE showed a significantly higher concentration of PCB-126 in liver and muscle samples compared to control and fish ingesting virgin PE. In accordance with the accumulation of PCB-126 in the liver, the expression of hepatic cyp1a was higher in cod fed spiked PE. Notably, we observed that spiked PE, as well as virgin PE, have an effect on skin. Overall changes indicated a reduced skin barrier in fish fed a diet containing PE. Indicating that PE itself through interaction with gut tissue may influence skin health in fish. [Display omitted] • PCB-126 are highly adsorbed to polyethylene (PE) microplastics at 150–300 μm. • Inclusion of 1 % PE in feeds to cod juveniles does not affect growth or mortality. • PCB-126 spiked PE affects liver cyp1a gene expression and PCB accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic resin pellets collected at Minh Chau island and Ba Lat estuary between 2007 and 2014 in Vietnam were analyzed for dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethanes (DDTs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs). The study was carried out as part of the International Pellet Watch program for monitoring the global distribution of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Higher levels of DDTs compared to PCBs indicated agricultural inputs rather than industrial discharges in the region. Most POP concentrations on both beaches decreased over the period, with the exception of HCH isomers. Though the concentration of DDTs showed a drastic decline on both beaches between 2007/2008 and 2014, DDTs accounted for 60–80% of total DDTs, suggesting that there is still a fresh input of these chemicals in the region. This study strongly recommends further investigations to track temporal and spatial patterns of POP levels in the marine environment using plastic resin pellets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the burden of environmental pollution by Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs) in two localities of Rio de Janeiro coast, through the determination of these levels in specimens of mullets and croakers collected from May to August 2008, at Guanabara Bay (GB) and from Araújo Island (AI), at Paraty Bay. Twenty three organochlorine pollutants were detected in croakers at GB and twenty in mullets and all PCBs congeners investigated in the study were present in the two species. Ratio ∑ DDT/∑PCB of 1.4 shows an important contribution of agricultural residues in GB and p,p′-DDE/∑DDT of 0.1 demonstrates a reintroduction of DDT. Consumption of mullet may represent a risk to the health of fishermen families from GB, with average and maximum estimated daily intake of ∑ DDT of 9.012 μg/kg p.c. and 26,174 μg/kg p.c., representing 45% and 131% of ADI established by WHO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halibut ( Hippoglossus hippoglossus ) and shrimps ( Pandalus borealis ) are regular foodstuffs for communities in northern Norway and important species for the coastal fishing industry. This is the first study to present a comprehensive overview of the contaminant status of these species, with emphasis on unregulated perfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS). The contaminant concentrations were low and within tolerable levels for human dietary exposure. Median Σpolychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) were 4.9 and 2.5 ng/g ww for halibut and unpeeled shrimps, respectively. Concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) – the most abundant PFASs – were 0.9 and 2.7 ng/g ww in halibut and shrimp, respectively. The halibut fillets were dominated by PCBs, which contributed to 50% of the total POPs load, followed by ΣDDTs; 26% and PFASs (18%), whereas shrimps were dominated by PFASs (74%). ΣPBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) contributed to 1–4% of the total POP load. Local sources are not contributing significantly to the contaminant burden in these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pacific angel sharks ( Squatina californica ) are a benthic elasmobranch that occupy intermediate trophic level positions in coastal food webs. Angel sharks’ life history characteristics make them susceptible to accumulating high amounts of contaminants. Four angel sharks were opportunistically captured in southern California and their liver and uterine contents were analyzed for PCBs, DDTs and other pesticides. High DDT:PCB ratios were found in the sharks indicating direct or indirect foraging near a local EPA Superfund Site. Organic contaminants were measured in ovulated eggs, indicating that females are able to maternally offload contaminants. Despite the potential mismatch between ovarian and uterine fecundity, we estimated females to offload approximately 13 ± 5% of their total body load, which represents the upper limit of this capability. Although low in sample size, the initial findings from this study suggest that habitat use might play an important role in contaminant accumulation in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low pg levels of PBDD/Fs in 0.8–38.9 pg g −1 (fat) range (mean 14.2 pg g −1 ) observed in the tested cod liver samples were significantly lower than levels of their chlorinated analogues (25.1–95.9 range, 37.7 mean pg g −1 fat). Brominated furans dominated the congener profile. Elevated levels of OH-/MeO-BDE were however observed with mean concentrations at 2769 ± 1319 and 5441 ± 2918 pg g −1 (fat) respectively. The observed congener profiles with the predominance of 6-OH-BDE 47 and the relatively high proportion between the native and hydroxylated compounds indicate on natural origin of those compounds or at least presence of various exposure sources. A large fraction of studied samples did not comply with the currently standing EU regulations concerning PCBs and chlorinated dioxins (11%), especially as regards non-dioxin like PCBs (88%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uptake of PCBs contained in marine sediments by the green macroalga Ulva rigida was investigated in both laboratory and field experiments. Under laboratory conditions, total PCBs (tPCBs) uptake was significantly greater in live vs dead plants. The concentration of tPCB taken up in live plants was greatest in the first 24 h (1580 μg kg −1 dry weight), and then increased at a lower rate from day 2 to 14. Dead plants had a significantly lower tPCB concentration after 24 h (609 μg kg −1 dry weight) and lower uptake rate through day 14. Lesser chlorinated PCB congeners (below 123) made up the majority of PCBs taken up. Congener composition in both laboratory and field experiments was correlated to congener log K ow value and sediment content. Field experiments showed that Ulva plants could concentrate PCBs to 3.9 mg kg −1 in 24 h. Thus, U. rigida is capable of removing PCBs in sediments at a rapid rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared species identity, microplastics, chemical and microbial contamination between consumption mussels and wild type mussels, collected at Belgian department stores and Belgian groynes and quaysides, respectively. Species identification based on genetic analysis showed a high number of Mytilus (M.) edulis compared to M. galloprovincialis and M. edulis/galloprovincialis hybrid mussels. The number of total microplastics varied from 2.6 to 5.1fibres/10g of mussel. A higher prevalence of orange fibres at quaysides is related to fisheries activities. Chemical contamination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and polychlorobiphenyls could be related to industrial activities and water turbidity, with maximum concentrations at the quayside of port Zeebrugge. The inverse was noted for Escherichia coli contamination, which was relatively low at Zeebrugge quayside with a total count of 3.9×102CFU/100g tissue, due to limited agricultural effluents. Results of this complementary analysis stress the importance of integrated monitoring and quality assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Water concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were estimated from semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs) and from sediment pollutant concentrations. SPMDs were deployed in the Istanbul Strait and Marmara Sea and retrieved after 7 and 21days. Performance reference compounds (PRCs) were used to determine the site-specific sampling rates of the compounds. Water concentrations (Cw ) of the analyzed compounds estimated by using two different calculation methods for SPMDs were found similar. Cw of total PAHs estimated from SPMDs (Cw - spmd ) were found between 13 and 79ngL−1 and between 7.0 and 68ngL−1 for 7 and 21days of deployments respectively. Water concentrations of PCBs using sediment data was found as between 0.001 and 11.0ngL−1. The highest value of Cw - spmd for two deployments were 2.8ngL−1 for OCPs. Cw estimated from sediment concentrations were generally higher than those estimated from SPMDs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The residual levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in surface sediments collected from Candarli Gulf. Total concentrations of OCPs and PCBs in sediments ranged from 10.2 to 57.3 and 2.8 to 205ngg−1 dwt, respectively. DDTs in sediments were derived from the aged and weathered agricultural soils in 61% of the sampling stations while 39% of the sites originated from the recent DDT inputs. Their concentrations appeared to be relatively low by global standards and only sediments receiving the impact from the Bakircay River and petrochemical industry approached the sediment quality guidelines for PCBs and DDTs. Based on ERL/ERM guidelines, DDT and PCBs posed ecological risk to the bottom-dwelling consumers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polyethylene pellets provide a convenient means to monitor Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in marine systems. Pellets collected between 1984 and 2008 at three South African beaches were analysed for PCB, HCH and DDT. Concentrations of all three POPs decreased over the last two decades, although this signal was less clear for PCBs, and further monitoring is needed to assess trends in this family of compounds. DDT concentrations at two sites were higher than previous records for southern Africa, but there is no evidence of a link to the ongoing use of DDT for malaria control. HCHs concentrations were lower than in pellets from the east coast of southern Africa, suggesting that this pesticide was mainly used in the eastern part of the region. Our study demonstrates the potential for International Pellet Watch to track temporal as well as geographical patterns in the abundance of POPs in marine environments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Benthic ecosystem in Gwangyang Bay, a fast developing industrial area with steel production, port container handling, petroleum and other chemical processing in South Korea was studied. The average levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (ΣPCB) in the benthic components were: seawater 2.99±0.13 (ng/L); sediment 294±118 (ng/g TOC); [biota=ng/g lipid] starfish 92; prawn 131±2; mussels 127±22; crab 182±114; clam 187; polychaeta 215; sea cucumber 497±90; squill 603±38; fish 396±159. Levels in the inner bay samples were higher than the outer bay samples suggesting land based pollution. Good correlation (r 2 =0.79; p <0.05) existed between PCB concentration and lipid content indicating partitioning processes in action. PCB signature in the abiotic and biotic components shows enrichment of lower chlorinated congeners emitted by a unique source nearby, viz. steel manufacturing plant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Plastic litter accounts for 50–80% of waste items stranded on beaches, floating on the ocean surface and lodged in the seabed. Organic pollutants can be absorbed onto plastic particles from sea water, attached to their surfaces or included in the plastic matrix as additives. Such chemicals may be transported to remote regions by buoyant plastics and ocean currents. We have estimated mass fluxes of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) to the Arctic via the main ocean currents and compared them to those in the dissolved state and in air. Substance fluxes with atmospheric or sea water currents account for several tons per year, whereas those mediated by plastics are four to six orders of magnitude smaller. However, the significance of various pollutant transport routes does not depend only on absolute mass fluxes but also on bioaccumulation in marine food chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Recent studies have shown that many persistent organic pollutants (POPs, e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and various pesticides), are strongly associated with carbonaceous materials (including organic carbon (OC) and black carbon (BC)). We hypothesize that carbonaceous materials can be used as a first-order pollution index, to indicate areas where POP pollution may require further investigation. We tested our hypothesis and found that strong, positive correlations between BC and OC contents versus the concentrations of PCBs (and PAHs) existed in estuarine sediments of the Danshui River in 2005 and 2008. Thus, our preliminary results demonstrate that POC and BC are potential indicators of the POP pollution potential in fluvial sediments of the Danshui River in Taiwan. This innovative approach can provide a simple, relatively inexpensive and expedient means to monitor concentrations of POPs in polluted aquatic sediments of Taiwan, and/or those having a legacy of POP inputs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Coastal contamination in the 1940s was assessed based on analysis of canned blue mussels presumably collected from Birch Harbor, Maine, USA. Analytical results on legacy organic contaminants were compared to long-term National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Mussel Watch (MW) monitoring data to estimate the degree of coastal contamination before World War II (WWII) when many synthetic organic compounds were first introduced into the environment. While dieldrin and chlordane were not detected in the canned mussels, dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT) and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) were present at lower concentrations relative to the more recent MW data. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were detected, and the later were significantly higher in canned mussels relative to the MW data (p <0.05). Furthermore, moving average analysis applied to the MW data depicted three-phased temporal trend patterns (increase–decrease-steady state) for virtually all contaminants indicating an overall increased coastal contamination in post WWII era. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Microplastics and polychlorinated biphenyls are ubiquitous in the marine environments. To illuminate their combined biological impacts, juvenile Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) were exposed to 500 ng/L PCBs alone or 500 ng/L PCBs plus 2, 20, and 200 μg/L 10-μm porous MPs for 21 days. Compared to PCBs alone, co-exposure to PCBs and 20, 200 μg/L MPs reduced fish body length and body weight, and the concurrence of MPs aggravated PCBs-induced thyroid-disrupting effects, including significantly decreased L-thyroxine and L-triiodothyronine levels, more severe damage to the thyroid tissue and gill morphology, and disturbance on the expression of hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis genes. The PCBs concentrations in the seawater were decreased dramatically with the increase of MPs concentrations, confirming that MPs absorbed PCBs from the seawater. Our results demonstrated that MPs enhanced the thyroid disruption of PCBs, suggesting that the risk of MPs and thyroid-disrupting chemicals on marine organisms should be paid more attention. [Display omitted] • MPs mainly appeared in the digestive tract of after 24 h and 48 h exposure. • Porous MPs could absorb PCBs from the seawater and transferred it into fish body. • MPs worsen the effects of PCBs regarding the retardation of fish growth. • T3 and T4 levels were significantly reduced in the presence of 200 μg/L MPs. • MPs could enhance PCBs-induced thyroid disruption in juvenile Japanese flounder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of coastal ecosystems necessitates the evaluation of pollutant loading based on adequate source discrimination. Monitoring of sediments and fish on the shelf off San Diego has shown that some areas on the shelf are contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Here, we present an analysis of PCB contamination in fish on the shelf off San Diego designed to discriminate possible sources. The analysis was complicated by the variability of species available for analysis across the shelf, variable affinities of PCBs among species, and non-detects in the data. We utilized survival regression analysis to account for these complications. We also examined spatial patterns of PCBs in bay and offshore sediments and reviewed more than 20 years of influent and effluent data for local wastewater treatment facilities. We conclude that most PCB contamination in shelf sediments and fish is due to the ongoing practice of dumping contaminated sediments dredged from San Diego Bay. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An environmental survey on pesticide residues and polychlorobyphenyl compounds (PCBs), encompassing more than 70 polar and non-polar compounds quantifiable by the techniques used, was performed in the Mekong River delta based on analyses of water, sediment and bivalve mollusc samples. Few polar compounds, such as diazinon and fenotrothion, were detected in water but a high number of non-polar chlorinated compounds, such as DDT, HCH, endosulfan and PCBs, were detected in sediments and biota. The highest concentrations measured were of DDT with an average 6.3ngg−1 dry weight (range 0.32–67ngg−1) in sediments and 38.6ngg−1 (range 5.5–123ngg−1) in molluscs’ soft tissues. Amongst chlorinated compounds, DDT concentrations were followed in decreasing order by those of PCB, endosulfan, hexachlorocyclohexane and chlordane. Residues of organochlorine compounds originate from local usage of agrochemicals although with a likely contribution also of atmospheric deposition of residues (not measured) originated elsewhere. Concentrations of PCB and pesticide residues in the aquatic environment of the Mekong River delta are lower than values reported for other regions of Vietnam and Asia. Nevertheless, current concerns about the effects of chlorinated compounds on public health advise improved control of chemical residue discharges in order to abate environmental contamination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The main aim of the present study was to compare the quality of particle emissions (urban runoff and settling particles in rivers and harbours) to the quality of top-layer bed sediments, for two Norwegian harbours (Oslo and Drammen). A sub-aim was to investigate whether non-industrial urban runoff contributed to the organotin load of sediments, apart from leaching from ship hulls. Time-integrated samples of stormwater runoff were obtained in an innovative manner, by sampling man-holes in the stormwater system. Settling particles were sampled with sediment traps. The study focused on PAHs, PCBs and organotin compounds. Contaminant levels were generally a factor of 2–10 (PAHs) and 3–30 (TBT) lower in emitted riverine and runoff particles than in top-layer bed sediments, except for PCBs in Oslo harbour (only 20–30% lower). Significant levels of tributyltin (TBT; median 140μg/kg) were shown in runoff particles, showing that TBT can also be emitted via urban sources, since the sampled man-holes were not in areas where dry-docking activities take place. Possible land-based TBT sources include long-lasting house paint and use of TBT as PVC stabilizer and timber preservative. Since there are ongoing emissions into the two studied harbour areas, it is concluded that the addition of an actively sorbing capping material such as activated carbon might be the best remediation alternative. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A battery of biochemical biomarkers and the ∑PCB concentration in adult female perch (Perca fluviatilis) verified an aquatic pollution gradient with the city of Stockholm (Sweden) as a point source of anthropogenic substances. The investigation included both an upstream gradient, 46km westwards through Lake Mälaren, and a downstream gradient, 84km eastwards through the Stockholm archipelago. Besides the main gradient from Stockholm, there were strong indications of pollution coming from the Baltic Sea. The results indicated a severe pollution situation in central Stockholm, with poor health status of the perch, characterised by increased specific EROD activity in the liver, increased liver EROD somatic index, decreased AChE activity in the muscle, increased amount of DNA adducts in the liver, and a high concentration of biliary 1-pyrenol. In addition, laboratory exposure to common EROD inducers elicited an abnormal response, suggestive of chronic intoxication. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The concentrations and composition profiles of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers and polychlorinated naphthalenes were determined in herring individuals collected from the commercial catches of the Bothnian Sea, northern Baltic. The median age of herring was 5.0 years and in the muscle the median toxic equivalent concentration of PCDD/Fs was 5.6 WHOPCDD/F-TEQ pg/g fresh weight (fw) and that of PCBs 2.7 WHOPCB-TEQ pg/g fw. The median sum concentration of PBDEs was 1.4ng/g fw and that of PCNs 0.1ng/g fw. Differences in age-dependent accumulation between the organohalogen groups and individual congeners were major. In the Bothnian Sea the content of organohalogen compounds in herring is obviously elevated due to the availability and large proportion of Mysis crustaceans in their diet. More intensive fishing could reduce the concentrations of organohalogens, including the abundant, accumulative and toxic 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF congener in the Baltic herring catch. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Sørfjord (Western Norway) has a long history of industry and pollution, and has been monitored for several decades. The environmental monitoring has comprised analyses of different contaminants in sea water, mussel, fish, seaweed and sediments. Measurements of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) some 17 years ago indicated a local source. In 2001 severe concentrations were measured in blue mussels and further investigations disclosed the primary source of PCBs in the Sørfjord. In 2002, extreme PCB-concentrations were found in cod (Gadus morhua) from the same area. However, no induction of EROD activity was detected, indicating the limitations of this assay as marker for PCB contamination. A future scientific challenge will be to understand the specific mechanisms and effects of such PCB accumulation in fish. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Twenty-seven black guillemot eggs and 39 livers were analysed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), chlorinated pesticides including chlordane-related compounds and toxaphene, and polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs). The samples were collected at Qeqertarsuaq (Godhavn, West Greenland) and Ittoqqortoormiit (Scoresbysund, East Greenland). The concentrations of halogenated organic compounds in samples from East Greenland were somewhat higher than the corresponding concentrations from West Greenland. Differences in compound patterns were found between West and East Greenland, with higher percentages of the heavier PCB molecules, p,p′-DDE and α-HCH in the samples from Ittoqqortoormiit. Similarly, different levels and different compositions were observed for eggs and livers. The eggs had generally higher concentrations of all compounds as well as higher percentages of CHB-50, CHB-62 and α-HCH than liver samples from the same area. Dividing the liver samples into age groups revealed increasing concentrations with age. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Hudson River estuary has enormous spatial variation in polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) contamination due in large part to historical point source discharges above Troy Dam. The Delaware River estuary has accumulated significant levels of PCBs through decades of industrial, municipal, and non-point source inputs. The overall goal of this research was to use existing data sets to compare and contrast the patterns of accumulated PCB congeners in sub-populations of American eels and striped bass inhabiting these two estuaries and surrounding coastal waters. Using principal component analysis and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), inter- and intra-estuarine differences in accumulated congeneric patterns were denoted for both species. Results from our study support the idea that migratory behaviors of striped bass hamper the use of accumulated congener-specific PCB patterns in providing information on localized contamination, although major regional differences were seen between upriver Hudson River fish, downriver Hudson River fish and fish from other areas within this study. This study provides additional evidence for the use of the American eel as a biomonitoring tool, since its limited home range provides finer resolution of regional contamination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Endocrine disrupting chemicals such as organochlorines have been detected in a large number of marine fish. Histological observation of the gonads, measurement of serum vitellogenin (VTG) level and of liver polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) content were performed to evaluate the reproductive health and the contamination with endocrine disruptors in bigeye tuna Thunnus obesus, collected in the northern Pacific Ocean in 1999 and 2000. Abnormalities commonly found in species affected by endocrine disruptors such as the presence of oocytes in the testis or elevated serum VTG levels were not found in any of males examined. Both males and females had only small amounts of liver PCB content. The results suggest that currently there is little if any risk of organochlorine contamination or endocrine disruption of gonadal function in bigeye tuna from the northern Pacific Ocean. However, further studies are necessary to evaluate the health status of the open sea fishery resources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Within the southeast Asian region, an issue has arisen about how polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) should be analysed in environmental samples for risk assessment purposes. Should PCBs be identified as Aroclors (or other commercial mixtures such as Kanechlors), as homologues, as PCB congeners, or as toxic equivalents? The debate appears to centre around separate disciplines that are involved in environmental measurement and analyses, specifically the reporting needs of the environmental chemists and toxicologists. The choice of PCB measurements is generally made on the basis of what question is being asked. This viewpoint presents a general description of the issue, identifies the differences amongst measurement techniques (significance of analytical results, the application and reliability of data, and general costs), characterises the current status of PCB analyses and reporting in the southeast Asian region (specifically, in Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Japan, the Phillipines, Thailand and Vietnam), and proposes a recommended approach for harmonising analytical and toxicological results from laboratories and research groups who are interested in investigating the fate and effects of PCBs on marine/estuarine biota in the region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Concentrations of persistent organochlorines (OCs) such as PCBs, DDTs, chlordanes (CHLs), HCHs and HCB were determined in the liver of bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) collected from Japanese coastal waters in order to elucidate accumulation profiles and to evaluate the suitability of this species as a biomonitor for pollution in the open sea ecosystem. Concentrations of PCBs, DDTs and CHLs in bluefin tuna increased significantly with body length (30–190 cm). HCHs and HCB residues were comparable among all the sampling regions, and the levels of these chemicals did not show correlation with body length. These results suggest significance of dietary uptake of PCBs, DDTs and CHLs compared to the intake via the gill. On the other hand, equilibrium partitioning with ambient water is a major determinant of the levels of HCHs and HCB in tuna. Body-length normalized values (BLNV) of PCBs, DDTs and CHLs concentrations in bluefin tuna were calculated using the linear regression equation obtained from the plot of concentrations and body length. BLNV of these chemicals on a lipid wt basis, which was adjusted for 100 cm body length, were indicative of the present state water pollution by PCBs, DDTs and CHLs. These results suggest that bluefin tuna is a suitable bioindicator for monitoring OCs contamination in the open sea ecosystem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Chemical contamination of fish from the Salton Sea, a quasi-marine lake in Southern California, could adversely impact millions of birds using the Pacific Flyway and thousands of humans using the lake for recreation. Bairdiella icistia (bairdiella), Cynoscion xanthulus (orangemouth corvina), and Oreochromis spp. (tilapia) were sampled from two river mouths and two nearshore areas of the Salton Sea. Muscle tissues were analyzed for a complete suite of 14 trace metals and 53 pesticides. Fish muscle tissues had concentrations of selenium ranging between 1.89 and 2.73 μg/g wet weight. 4,4′-DDE accounted for 94% of the total DDT metabolites. Total DDTs ranged between 17.1 and 239.0 and total PCBs between 2.5 and 18.6 ng/g wet weight. PCB congeners 132, 138, 153, 168, and 180 comprised over 50% of the total PCBs. Given the potential implementation of a commercial fishing at the Salton Sea in the future, the presence of persistent organic pollutants and selenium warrants further research into the effects of these mixtures on fish populations, and on wildlife and humans consuming fish. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Marine animals that traverse coastal and offshore environments are potentially exposed to multiple sources of pollution. Baseline data of pollutant concentrations of these fauna are needed in remote areas as human populations grow and economic development increases because changes may affect local wildlife in unforeseen ways. Persistent organic pollutant (POPs) concentrations were quantified in an understudied seabird, the great-winged petrel (Pterodroma macroptera), that breeds in southern Western Australia. Organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) were measured in adults. Total POPs concentrations ranged 5.6–46.4 ng g−1 ww. The most frequently detected POPs were the dichlorodiethyltrichloroethane (DDT) metabolite 4 , 4' DDE, the PCB CB-28, and the BFR polybrominated diphenyl ether BDE-99. These results contribute to the limited POPs data in marine fauna in this remote region, and the Southern Hemisphere, adding to the growing body of evidence that remote regions are affected by global trends of POPs distributions. • Animals traversing coastal and offshore habitats may be exposed to multiple POPs. • POPs of Great-winged petrels nesting in Western Australia ranged 5.6–46.4 ng g−1 ww. • DDE, PCB-28 and BDE-99 were the most frequently detected POPs. • Seabirds in remote regions are affected by global POPs distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of "chemical fingerprinting" or "profiling" has been suggested as a means to identify habitat use by young-of-the-year (YOY) bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix). In this study, seasonal and interannual trends were examined over a 3-year period of 31 polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners and 23 chlorinated pesticides in 176 YOY bluefish collected in the Hudson River Estuary, New York State. Principal component analysis identified distinct and coherent clustering of bluefish according to sampling year. Seasonally, PCB patterns were similar among weight classes, regardless of date of capture. Throughout the study period, there was a consistent seasonal shift toward the heavier chlorinated homologs as size increased even though different congeners contributed to the overall PCB profile in Year 3. Unlike PCBs, there was no consistent pesticide accumulation pattern, which varied seasonally and interannually. The results show the first generalized interannual accumulation profiles of organochlorines during the rapid growth stage of age-0 bluefish. As knowledge of temporal changes in different ecosystems improves, this will improve an understanding on how exposure to chemicals in different ecosystems can affect the long-term health of bluefish. • Seasonally, PCB profiles were remarkably similar for comparable weight classes regardless of sample date • A distinct chemical profile develops in fish as small as 45 mm • Despite significant differences in length and weight, chemical concentrations were consistent among all size classes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and hopanes were analyzed in plastic resin pellets collected from 19 locations along the Persian Gulf coastline. PCBs were high at locations near industrial areas, where their concentrations (sum of 13 congeners, 54–624 ng/g-pellet) were higher than those in rural coastal towns, which were close to global background levels (<10 ng/g-pellet). PAH concentrations (sum of 27 PAH species) varied from 273 to 15,786 ng/g-pellet and were highest in industrial cities (Bushehr and Bandar Abbas), with a petrogenic signature at most locations, possibly due to the petroleum-based industries, refineries, and tankers. These levels were placed in the extremely polluted category on a global basis. The distribution of hopanes was relatively homogeneous, and their range of concentrations was 8048–59,778 ng/g-pellet. This range had a positive correlation with PAH concentrations. The PAH and hopane results emphasize the ubiquity of petroleum pollution in the Persian Gulf. • High levels of PCBs were observed in industrial areas, e.g., Bandar Abbas. • PAHs with petrogenic signature were spread on Iranian coast of the Persian Gulf. • World high levels of PAHs were observed at locations near Strait of Hormuz. • Predominance of petrogenic PAHs originated mostly from petroleum-based industries. • Hopanes were ubiquitously detected with homogeneous distribution in Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the potential of using flounders as bioindicators of accumulation and transformation of POPs and to assess the possible environmental risk to the health of the population of the Russian coastal regions. The mean levels of HCH, DDT, and PCBs in the flounders were as follows: in the eastern Sea of Okhotsk, 49 ± 51, 62 ± 89, and 106 ± 83 ng/g lipid weight; in the southern Sea of Okhotsk, 36 ± 37, 15 ± 16, and 97 ± 41 ng/g lipid wt; in the Sea of Japan/East Sea, 62 ± 36, 39 ± 28, and 1616 ± 1177 ng/g lipid wt, respectively. In the Tatar Strait, OCPs were represented mainly by β-HCH with a concentration of 221 ± 182 ng/g lipid wt; the PCB level was 455 ± 317 ng/g lipid wt. Values of ILCR = 2.1·10−5 due to the consumption of flounder from the Sea of Japan/East Sea at a rate of 29 kg/yr indicate a probability of developing cancer during a lifetime. • Flounders may be indicators of local environmental contamination by POPs. • POPs content in the Sea of Okhotsk may be assumed as "background". • The Sea of Japan/East Sea is the most contaminated then all Far Eastern Seas. • ILCR for flounder from the Sea of Japan/East Sea is 2.1·10−5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a paucity of information on the levels of PAHs and PCBs in the deep-sea (≥200 m). In this study, the body-burdens of 16 PAHs and 29 PCBs were measured in: Actinaria (sea anemones), Holothuroidea (sea cucumber), Pennatulacea (sea pens), and Crinoidea (sea lilies) in the deep Gulf of Mexico. All epibenthic species were collected at depths of approximately 2000 m. The PAH and PCB congener profile displayed a similar pattern of bioaccumulation across all four taxa. The high molecular weight PAH, dibenz[ a , h ]anthracene, was the most abundant PAH in all organisms, ranging from 36 to 53% of sum total PAHs. PCBs 101 and 138 exhibited the highest levels at 20–25% of total congener concentrations in all taxa. The exposure to PAHs and PCBs is likely attributed to contaminated particulate organic matter that is consumed by the deposit and filter feeding epibenthic megafauna sampled in this study. • Body-burdens of PAH and PCB congeners were quantified in four taxa of epibenthic deep-sea megafauna. • Three congeners made up the majority of total PAHs in all four taxa: dibenz[ a , h ]anthracene, benzo[ a ]pyrene, and acenaphthene. • The primary polychlorinated biphenyls found in the deep-sea megafauna were congeners 101 and 138. • This study shows that deep-sea invertebrates have the propensity to bioaccumulate relatively high levels of PAHs and PCBs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review represents a comprehensive analysis on pollutants in elasmobranchs including meta-analysis on the most studied pollutants: mercury, cadmium, PCBs and DDTs, in muscle and liver tissue. Elasmobranchs are particularly vulnerable to pollutant exposure which may pose a risk to the organism as well as humans that consume elasmobranch products. The highest concentrations of pollutants were found in sharks occupying top trophic levels (Carcharhiniformes and Lamniformes). A human health risk assessment identified that children and adults consuming shark once a week are exposed to over three times more mercury than is recommended by the US EPA. This poses a risk to local fishing communities and international consumers of shark-based products, as well as those subject to the widespread mislabelling of elasmobranch products. Wider screening studies are recommended to determine the risk to elasmobranchs from emerging pollutants and more robust studies are recommended to assess the risks to human health. • This review identified 176 papers on pollutant exposure in elasmobranchs. • High concentrations of Hg, DDT and PCBs pose a serious threat to elasmobranchs. • Humans are at risk of exposure to pollutants through consumption of elasmobranchs. • Hg and DL-PCB concentrations in sharks are above human safety consumption limits. • Research is required on emerging pollutants and in several key understudied regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-accumulation of persistent organic pollutants including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants and organochlorine pesticides continue to be of major concern for marine apex predators such as killer whales. The concentrations of 16 polychlorinated biphenyls, 7 poly-brominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), 1 poly-brominated biphenyl (PBB) and a range of 19 organochlorine compounds (OCs) was investigated in blubber samples from a mother-foetus pair, an adult female and an adult male killer whale stranded in Ireland between 2010 and 2017. Concentrations ranged from 1.5 mg/kg to 49.3 mg/kg lipid weight and 0.04–1.2 mg/kg lipid weight for Σ16PCBs and Σ7PBDEs respectively. Concentrations of organochlorine compounds were also investigated in the male killer whale; a Σ19OC concentration of 49.4 mg/kg lipid weight was recorded. This study shows high levels of persistent organic pollutants occur in this species of whales stranded in Ireland. • Contaminant data for a sparsely studied region has been expanded. • Provides information regarding the rare stranding of mother-foetus killer whale pair. • Persistent organic pollutant threshold exceeded in Irish killer whale stranding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]