Some organochlorine pesticide residues in wildlife of the northern territory, australia, 1970-71

Abstract

A survey was made, during 1970 and 1971, of organochlorine pesticide residues in the fatty tissues of 12 mammal, 4 bird, 10 reptile, and 6 fish species collected from areas defined as undeveloped and developed of both the arid and tropical zones of the Northern Territory. Pooled samples were taken of most species. Where possible, each species was sampled from each of the four areas. Most samples from undeveloped areas had no detectable organochlorine residues. Residues were found in only 38% of samples from the arid undeveloped area and in 41 % of samples from the tropical undeveloped area. The majority of samples from developed areas, both arid and tropical, contained organochlorine pesticide residues. Eight organochlorine compounds were detected. In order of frequency of detection these were DDE, DDT, dieldrin, HCB, DDD, lindane, endrin, and aldrin. Polychlorinated biphenyls were not determined. Possible sources of these organochlorine residues are discussed, and suggestions about the selection of animal species for future monitoring studies are made. © 1973 CSIRO.