TBT and intersex in periwinkles
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Revision as of 08:59, 15 July 2009 by Daphnisd (talk | contribs) (New page: <u>'''Context of the study'''</u> Organotin compounds (like TBT) used in antifouling paints can disrupt the endocrine system of many gastropod species. Concentrations of 1...)
Context of the study
Organotin compounds (like TBT) used in antifouling paints can disrupt the endocrine system of many gastropod species. Concentrations of 1 ng tin / l sea water results in imposex, the development of non functional male reproductive organs in females. In the periwinkle however, higher concentrations of TBT (> 10ng tin/l) can also cause intersex, the transformation of the oviduct into a non functional prostate. Both conditions can lead to female sterility. After TBT was banned in 2003, many periwinkle populations stopped displaying imposex characteristics. It remains unknown whether they still display intersex characteristics.
Content of the study
Main results of the study
