Concentrations and Characteristics of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in Marine Zooplankton from the Gaoping Waters of Southwestern Taiwan

Bioaccumulation by zooplankton is the outset for persistent organic pollutants that enter marine food chain. Owing to a full spectrum of anthropogenic activities, Gaoping waters southwestern Taiwan are exposed large quantities polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). However, information on these contaminants in this study area lacking. In study, we analyzed 19 PBDE congeners concentrations 36 samples from waters. A high variation total (from not detected 1415 ng g?1 dry weight) was found, with highest levels being recorded near entrance Kaohsiung Harbor (KH). Significantly higher were noted KH transect than River estuary (GR) and Fengshan Township (FS) transects, indicating inputs originate ocean sewage outfalls. BDE-15 (43%) BDE-209 (16%) predominant zooplankton. Our results suggest activities might predominantly contribute significantly concentrations. The traditional web may easily transport PBDEs trophic organisms, since serve as essential nursery spawning grounds invertebrates fishes.