DDT, HCH and PCB Residues in Fat of Red Deer (Cervus Elaphus) from the Region of Warmia and Mazury, 2000-2001

The authors presented the results of a study on the content of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), hexachlorohexane (γ-HCH) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) in perirenal fat from red deer obtained from the region of Warmia and Mazury in the years 2000-2001. Separation of the analysed compounds was conducted by gas chromatography. The analyses showed the presence of DDT and DDE in all samples, whereas DDD was found only in 13 samples (24% of all the analyzed samples), predominantly in trace amounts. Concentrations of DDTs and their metabolites averaged: 16.5 μg/kg of DDTs, 8.2 μg/kg of DDT and trace amounts of DDD. The lowest concentrations of these compounds were found in hinds and the highest in calves. Of all the analyzed substances, γ-HCH residues appeared in the smallest amounts – average 0,6 μg/kg and whereas PCBs concentrations were the highest – average 23,7 μg/kg. The results show that the region of Warmia and Mazury is an area characterised by low levels of pollution caused by the analyzed xenobiotics.