Occurrence of POPs in sediments and tissues of European eels (Anguilla anguilla L.) from two Italian lagoons: Varano and Orbetello

Abstract

1 - Total levels of persistent organic pollutants (polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) in sediments and edible tissues (muscle and liver) from a fish species of great local commercial interest (Anguilla anguilla L., yellow phase) were determined in Varano and Orbetello lagoons, Italy.
2 - The aim of this study was to improve knowledge on relationships occurring among levels of chemicals in sediments and fish tissues relating them reciprocally and to different intensities of human pressure.
3 - Studied ecosystems were selected due to the notable scientific knowledge acquired by previous detailed research on meteorology, geomorphology, hydrodynamics, types and distribution of local factors linked to different sources of human-made pollution. Samplings were performed in July 2009 according to a logic model based on a priori defined factors of interest and obtained results were statistically analysed in order to evaluate the significance of observed data segregation related to the selected factors.
4 - Concerning levels measured in sediments, significant differences were observed between lagoons in terms of .PAHs and .OCPs. According to National and international recognised sediment quality guidelines, results evidenced the occurrence of non-critical POPs values in sediments.
5 - Results on sediments are associated to very high levels in eel's tissues. Concerning eels, Orbetello lagoon is characterized by significant higher values of .OCPs than Varano, evidencing the presence of an important OCPs local source.
6 - Different human pressure levels produce significant differences in both sediments and eel's tissues in Varano and Orbetello lagoons.