Accumulation of organochlorines in the European clam (Ruditapes decussatus) and sediment of the Oualidia lagoon (Morocco)

Abstract

This study focused on the analysis of organochlorine pesticides and PCBs in tissue samples of the clam, Ruditapes decussatus, in the Oualidia lagoon. Tissue assays were conducted during February to December 2005 and sediment (October 2005) was also tested. 13 organochlorine compounds and eight PCBs congeners were investigated, is HCB, γ-HCH, chlordane, cis-chlordane and trans-nonachlor, DDT and its metabolites DDD, DDE, heptachlor, its epoxide, mirex and PCBs (PCB28 + 50, PCB52, PCB101, PCB 118, PCB138, PCB153, PCB180). Analysis of these compounds was performed using a gas chromatography capillary column and an electron capture detector. Organochlorine contamination of clams and sediments in the lagoon did not exceed tolerable thresholds according to European standards. The levels of tPCB, tDDT and tOCP in clams are high at 49.4, 22.2, and 7.1 ng g(-1) dw respectively. Concentrations of trans nonachlor and mirex are low compared to other chlorinated pesticides. PCB28 + 50, PCB52 and PCB101 show typical values in sediment, at 18.5, 10.8 and 17.8 ng g(-1) dw respectively.