DDT and metabolites in fish from Lake Edward, Uganda

Chemosphere. 2009 Jun;76(2):212-5. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2009.03.049. Epub 2009 Apr 26.

Abstract

This paper presents results based on determination of residue levels of 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis[p-chlorophenyl]ethane (DDT) and its metabolites in five fish species from Rwenshama landing site on Lake Edward, Uganda. The residue levels were analysed by using a GC-ECD and confirmed by GC-MS. The DDT residues detected in fish samples from Lake Edward were p,p'-DDT, o,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDE, o,p'-DDE, p,p'-DDD and o,p'-DDD. All the analysed samples of fish presented mean DDT residues ranging from non-detectable levels to 68 microg kg(-1) fresh weight. High levels of p,p'-DDT were detected in comparison to the metabolites (p,p'-DDE and p,p'-DDD). The detection of higher levels of p,p'-DDT than p,p'-DDE and p,p'-DDD, in most fish samples, suggests recent exposure of fish to DDT. Generally, most of the fish samples had residue levels below the maximum residue limits (MRL) recommended by FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DDT / analogs & derivatives
  • DDT / analysis*
  • DDT / metabolism
  • Fishes / metabolism*
  • Food Contamination
  • Pesticide Residues / analysis*
  • Pesticide Residues / metabolism
  • Uganda
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / analysis*
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / metabolism

Substances

  • Pesticide Residues
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical
  • DDT