Grounding of the Bahia Paraiso at Arthur Harbor, Antarctica. 1. Distribution and fate of oil spill related hydrocarbons

The running aground of a tanker released 600,000 litres of arctic diesel fuel near Arthur harbour in early 1989. Contamination of the whole ecosystem within a 2 mile radius took place. Samples of water, sediments, limpets, macroalgae, birds feathers and plankton were taken soon after the accident and 1 year later. Contamination of the water column disappeared quickly, that of the sediments more slowly. The relative volatility of the contaminant, dilution and the effect of wind and currents were the principal factors in dispersing pollution. Organisms were initially significantly affected, limpets suffering 50 per cent depletion and clams and some fish showing evidence of having ingested polluted sediments. Most of the environment had recovered after 1 year except near the tanker which was still the source of some low level contamination. Interpretation was complicated by pollution from other sources. Further studies were justified.