Bioavailability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Santos Bay (Brazil) and its adjacent continental shelf

This study evaluated the bioavailability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Santos Bay (SB) and adjacent Continental Shelf (SCS) Brazil. Biliary metabolites were measured several fish species to establish a baseline for future monitoring programs. Bile samples from different collected monthly July December 2005 SB, August February 2006 on SCS. Metabolite concentrations determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detectors. Naphthalene, phenanthrene, benzo[a]pyrene metabolite ranged 24 810 µg g -1 bile, 1.8 68 below limit quantitation 1.3 respectively. Despite its high concentrations, levels naphthalene regions low-contamination, while same range as those reported moderately contaminated areas, which may indicate pyrolytic contamination by PAHs. No significant differences found between SB SCS or during periods collection. Future studies single biomonitoring should be conducted, considering age, sex, feeding condition individuals. The data presented this is an important information urbanized region, hosts sources contaminants.