LEVELS OF TOXAPHENE INDICATOR COMPOUNDS IN FISH

Three toxaphene indicator compounds were determined in more than 100 s amples of fish. The investigated fish included nearly all important fi sh species consumed in Germany. Highest residue concentrations were fo und in marine fish with high or moderate fat content, e.g. halibut, he rring, redfish and mackerel. In fresh water species and marine fish wi th low fat content less contamination was found. A significant relatio nship between the fishing ground and the toxaphene residue could not b e established. Contamination levels of most species were related to th e age (length) of the fish. The daily intake of total toxaphene in Ger many was estimated at 2.8-5.6 ng/kg body weight. (C) 1997 Elsevier Sci ence Ltd.