Pesticides in coastal waters of the Gulf of California: Mussel Watch Program 1987-1988

Abstract

Using the mussel Modiolus capax, results show that p,p'-DDE (5.78-105.3 ng g-1 dry weight) is the most bioavailable organochlorine toxic substance found in waters of the Gulf of California. Heptachlorepoxide was detected in 18% and endrin in 8% of all the samples collected. Dieldrin, cis-chlordane, dactlal and endosulfan 1 were detected in <5% of samples. The higher concentrations recorded in the central Gulf may originate in the agricultural valleys of Sonora and Sinaloa. The concentrations of pesticides detected were below the international limits established for the protection of aquatic biota. -from English summary