POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC-HYDROCARBONS IN MUSCLE-TISSUE OF MARINE MAMMALS FROM THE NORTHWEST ATLANTIC

There are virtually no data available on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in marine mammals. Total PAH concentrations were determined in terms of chrysene and petroleum hydrocarbon equivalents in muscle tissues of four species of seals and six species of whales from waters around Newfoundland and Labrador. Values expressed on a dry weight basis ranged from 0.10 to 1.21 ppm in terms of chrysene equivalents and 0.26 to 5.51 ppm in terms of petroleum equivalents. The relatively high levels found in some animals from fishing areas demonstrates a need for more comprehensive information on PAH in marine mammals. © 1990.