Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls and pesticides in different species of macroalgae from the Venice Lagoon

PCBs and chlorinated pesticide concentrations have been detected in samples of macroalgae collected in three areas of the lagoon of Venice with different hydrodynamical characteristics and contamination levels, during a whole year. Halocarbon concentrations in macroalgae were found to depend on a number of factors including the species, the sample location, and frond age. The amounts of PCBs yearly recycled by algae have been estimated and the effect of PCBs stored in biomass onto the concentrations in sediments have been calculated.

PCBs and chlorinated pesticide concentrations have been detected in samples of macroalgae collected in three areas of the lagoon of Venice with different hydro-dynamical characteristics and contamination levels, during a whole year. Halocarbon concentrations in macroalgae were found to depend on a number of factors including the species, the sample location, and frond age. The amounts of PCBs yearly recycled by algae have been estimated and the effect of PCBs stored in biomass onto the concentrations in sediments have been calculated. © 1993.