VARIATION OF PCB MIXTURES IN EGGS OF BIRDS OF THE WADDEN SEA

The influence of location and year on the composition of PCB mixtures found in eggs was examined in the two wadden sea bird species Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) and Oyster-catcher (Haematopus ostralegus). By means of 45 PCB congeners the total concentration, the degree of metabolism and the ring stability values were analysed. The highest PCB concentrations as well as the highest degree of metabolism were found in the estuaries of the rivers Elbe and Weser and in the Deutsche Bucht. The degree of metabolism of both species increased linearly from 1987 to 1989. The total PCB concentration in the eggs of Common Terns were clearly higher than those found in the eggs of Oystercatchers but the mixture was less metabolised. Furthermore, there are significant differences of the ring stability values between the two species. To assess the PCB incrimination the degree of metabolism should be considered as well in a monitoring program.