DDT in Crassostrea virginica (Gmelin, 1791) of Coastal Lagoons in the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Extensive use of Dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT) has resulted in noticeable accumulation of the compound in aquatic trophic webs or food chains within tropical and subtropical areas of the Gulf of Mexico, causing public health concerns. The objective of this research was to assess levels of DDT and its metabolites in Crassostrea virginica (Gmelin, 1791) of four coastal lagoons (Tamiahua, Vega de Alatorre, La Mancha and Alvarado) located in the Gulf of Mexico. Oysters were collected from each of the four lagoons during summer (rainy), winter (windy), and spring (dry). Each sample consisted of 100 oysters, and the concentrations of DDT and its metabolites were quantified. Total DDT concentrations (ng/g) in oysters were 53.893 in Alvarado, 99.470 in La Mancha, 103.850 in Vega de Alatorre, and 114.737 in Tamiahua, indicating the lagoons were contaminated with DDT. It is concluded that the studied lagoon systems are contaminated by DDT.