Abstract
Butyltin compounds (BTs) including tributyltin (TBT) and its degradation product (DBT) and concentrations of heavy metals (Sn, Cu and Zn) were determined in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) collected from some West Algerian harbours. BTs were detected in all the mussels. Quanti?cation of BTs and heavy metals was carried respectively by Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, flame AAS. Concentrations of total butyltin (BTs: DBT + TBT) in mussels ranged from 0.49 to 2438 ng/g wet wt. The concentrations (μg/g wet wt) of heavy metals ranged from 0.40 to 3.55 for Sn, 9.62 to 67.03 for Cu, and 87.13 to 731.51 for Zn. Total of tin in mussels ranged from 0.2 to 1054.78 ng/g. Higher concentrations of butyltin compounds were found in mussels collected from Mers El Kebir shipyard, Arzew, a petroleum harbour (industrial), and Beni Saf fishing harbour. This suggested that maritime activities nearby the harbours play a major role as the source of BTs. Indeed, harbour of Arzew is frequented by voluminous tanker. TBT was the predominant compound in mussels collected from almost all the sampling locations; indicate the fresh input of TBT in harbours.
Highlights
Many biocides have been introduced in antifouling coatings, to prevent marine life from colonizing, yet Cu, in the form of cuprous oxide, continues to be one of the most common components of modern antifouling products, but not necessarily the most effective
Quantification of Butyltin compounds (BTs) and heavy metals was carried respectively by Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, flame atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS)
It has been documented that some molluscs such as oysters [5,6,7] and gastropods [8,9,10,11] are susceptible to toxic effects of tributyltin (TBT)
Summary
Many biocides have been introduced in antifouling coatings, to prevent marine life from colonizing, yet Cu, in the form of cuprous oxide, continues to be one of the most common components of modern antifouling products, but not necessarily the most effective. Butyltin compounds have been widely used during the last decades as biocides in antifouling paint applied for boats and aquaculture, PVC stabilisers, wood preservatives, in agriculture and in several industrial processes [1,2,3]. Their main source in the marine ecosystem is related to their use as antifouling paint biocides. In response to increasing scientific evidence concerning these environmental impacts on non-target organisms, many countries regulate the use of TBT in antifouling paints. The regulations banned the use of these compounds for JEP
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
