DDT
Definition of DDT:
dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), a persistant organochlorine pesticide [1]
This is the common definition for DDT, other definitions can be discussed in the article
|
Notes
DDT, like other organochlorine pesticides enter the marine environment mainly through inputs from water and air as a result of their use in agriculture. Although the use of DDT has been forbidden since the 1970's, they are still detected in the marine environment due to it's extreme stability, to illegal use or to use elsewhere (third world countries). DDT is metabolized into dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) which is equally toxic. Therefore, to asses the risk of DDT exposure, the sum both contaminants needs to be taken into account. This means that if you encounter a high percentage of DDT, the contamination must be a recent one.[2].
DDT affects the central nervous system of insects and other animals. This results in hyperactivity, paralysis and death. DDT also affects eggshell production in birds and the endocrine system of animals. [3]
