PBDEs in Great Lakes fish: Levels, patterns, trends and implications for human exposure

Session: Poster session

Nilima Gandhi, Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, [email protected]
Sarah Gewurtz, University of Windsor, [email protected]
Ken Drouillard, University of Windsor, Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, [email protected]
Terry Kolic, OMOECC, [email protected]
Karen MacPherson, OMOECC, [email protected]
Eric Reiner, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, [email protected]
Satyendra Bhavsar, Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, [email protected]

Abstract

Levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in fillets of Great Lakes fish were measured, with the goal of examining patterns/trends and evaluating implications for human exposure. Total 470 fillets of 18 fish species collected from various parts of the Canadian waters of the Great Lakes between 2006 and 2013 were analysed for 17 PBDEs. Levels and patterns of PBDEs varied dramatically within and among the 18 fish species. Bottom dwelling Common Carp (and White Sucker) exhibited the highest PBDE levels. Lake Superior Lake Trout and Lake Whitefish had higher levels, otherwise spatial trend was Lake Ontario>>Erie~Huron~Superior. The measured levels would result in restriction on fish consumption only for Common Carp from the Toronto waterfront area. Deca-BDE was the major congener in panfish, while BDE-47 was the major congener in top predators. Levels of major lower brominated PBDEs appear to have declined in fish fillets by 46-74% between 2006/07 and 2012.  Although PBDE in existing consumer items will remain in-use for a while, it will likely not result in appreciable accumulation of PBDEs in fish. Based on an overall assessment, regular monitoring of PBDEs in Great Lake fish can be replaced with targeted screening with focus on other in-use flame retardants.

1. Keyword
fish toxins

2. Keyword
PBDEs

3. Keyword
human health

4. Additional Keyword
Emerging contaminant

5. Additional Keyword
Environmental health

6. Additional Keyword
Contaminants