Imposex and butyltin contamination off the Oporto Coast (NW Portugal): a possible effect of the discharge of dredged material

Tributyltin inhibits osteoblastic activity and disrupts calcium metabolism through an increase in plasma calcium and calcitonin levels in teleosts

“…This causes widespread contamination of the marine environment (Iwata et al, 1995;Kannan et al, 1997;Tanabe et al, 1998;Galloway et al, 2004). In the marine Molluscan, for example, masculinization (imposex) has been observed on various seashores (Chiavarini et al, 2003;ten Hallers-Tjabbes et al, 2003;Santos et al, 2004) because, as is known, TBT functions as an aromatase inhibitor (Fent, 1996;Matthiessen and Gibbs, 1998;Heidrich et al, 2001;Cooke, 2002;Oberdö rster and McClellan-Green, 2002). In addition, this phenomenon is adapted as a biomonitoring tool for marine pollution by TBT (Axiak et al, 2003).…”

Predicted concentrations of biocides from antifouling paints in Visakhapatnam Harbour

“…As a result of legislations restricting the use of TBT-based antifouling paints, some reduction in the levels of TBT has been reported -particularly in areas in proximity to recreational shipping (Rees et al, 2001;Hawkins et al, 2002;Jorundsdottir et al, 2005). However, in areas close to industrial shipping, the TBT levels are still high (Svavarsson et al, 2001;Fent, 2004;Santos et al, 2004). In USA, although there is a declining trend, TBT levels are still high around the ports (Valkirs et al, 2003;Venkatesan et al, 1998;Peachey, 2003).…”

Recovery from TBT pollution in English Channel environments: A problem solved?

“…Nevertheless, for port authorities, regulators and conservation agencies, the issue of TBT in sediments remains a concern and a difficult management problem, particularly where re-mobilization may be enhanced by dredging or general disturbance (Brack, 2002;Svavarsson et al, 2001;Santos et al, 2004).…”