Date Awarded

1973

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.Sc.)

Department

Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Advisor

Michael E. Bender

Committee Member

John V. Merriner

Committee Member

Paul A. Haefner

Committee Member

John A. Musick

Committee Member

George Grant

Abstract

Metabolites of DDT were detected in five out of six major organs of blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus, taken from estuarine populations. Residue concentrations were highest in the hepatopancreas and below the limit of detection in the heart. Concentrations in pooled gonad samples (ovaries + testes) depended on the stage of development of the ovaries. Residue levels were low in claw and backfin muscles. Adult blue crabs were exposed for 12 hours to 0.01, 0.1, and 1.0 ppm DDT in water. No significant mortality was recorded. DDT was absorbed through the gills and transported to the hepatopancreas via the hemolymph. Biotransformation and distribution of DDT and its metabolites was regulated by the hepatopancreas. Induction of metabolic transformation of DDT to DDD and DDE occurred immediately. Storage of residues was greatest in the hepatopancreas and developing ovaries . Rates of loss of DDT residues from organs was subject to considerable variation.

This dissertation is from the Joint Program Degree from the College of William & Mary and University of Virginia and awarded by the University of Virginia.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25773/2XY0-0917

Rights

© The Author

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