Plasma androgen correlation, EROD induction, reduced, condition factor, and the occurrence of organochlorine pollutants in reproductively immature white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) from the Columbia River, USA

White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) support an active fishery in the C olumbia River, but there is poor reproductive success within the impounded sections. The poor reproductive success has been attributed to hydroelectri c development; however, water pollution could be a significant factor. Whit e sturgeon plasma, liver, and gonad samples were collected from four Columb ia River locations and a California aquaculture facility. Total length and weight of the fish were measured, and plasma samples were analyzed for test osterone (T), 11-ketotestosterone (KT), 17 beta -estradiol (E2), and vitell ogenin. Liver samples were analyzed for chlorinated pesticides and polychlo rinated biphenyls, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity and histopa thology. Gonads were examined histologically to assess sexual maturity and characterize any lesions. Significant differences by location existed for p ,p'-DDE, EROD activity, and condition factor. Plasma T was negatively corre lated with p,p'-DDE in males and females, and plasma KT was negatively corr elated in males. These data indicate that pollutants could be adversely aff ecting white sturgeon in the Columbia River basin.