Organochlorine Contamination in Sediments of the Inner Thames Estuary

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Abstract
The saltmarsh at Two Tree Island, situated in the Thames estuary, has previously been identified as exhibiting a relatively enhanced degree of contamination with respect to organochlorine insecticides and polychlorinated biphenyls. This survey of sediment samples from mud flats on the north bank of the River Thames, creeks surrounding Canvey Island and from Two Tree Island, indicated that contamination with organochlorine and polychlorinated biphenyls was ubiquitous throughout the inner Thames estuary. Values observed were in agreement with those in other European estuaries, and the degree of contamination at Two Tree Island was considered to reflect the local background. The outfall from Benfleet sewage‐treatment works was identified as a possible source of contaminants: however, no other point sources were located. Samples of annelids taken from mud flats by Two Tree Island had accumulated penta‐ and hexa‐chlorinated biphenyls to a greater degree than lower chlorinated cogeners, and demonstrated signs of an ability to metabolize DDT.

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