Decades-old DDT pollution off Southern California’s coast remains concentrated in ocean sediments and fish, with contamination highest near former discharge sites, a new study reveals.
Sharon Udasin reports for The Hill.
In short:
- Researchers found DDT concentrations in fish and ocean sediment remain highest near historic dumping sites, especially in bottom-dwelling species.
- Using data from 60 fish species, scientists identified predictable patterns in how DDT affects fish based on location, diet and habitat.
- DDT levels in some fish have decreased over time, likely due to sedimentation burying older contaminated layers.
Key quote:
“The relationship was strong enough to reasonably predict DDT concentrations in a fish based on where it was caught and its diet and habitat.”
— Lillian McGill, postdoctoral researcher, University of California San Diego
Why this matters:
Persistent toxic contamination in coastal ecosystems highlights the lasting impact of banned chemicals, complicating food safety and conservation. This study's findings may improve fish consumption advisories and support efforts to reduce human and wildlife exposure to legacy pollutants.
Related EHN coverage:
- DDT linked to an increase in autism risk in new study
- DDT’s long shadow: Long-banned chemicals linked to abnormal sperm
- Pesticide DDT linked to increased breast cancer risk generations after exposure
