Occurrence of Organochlorine and Organophosphorus Pesticides in M. scabra and M. tuberculata Species in Tighra Reservoir, Gwalior, India

The concentrations of organochlorine and organophosphorus pesticides were determined in surface sediments and freshwater molluscs (Melanoides scabra and Melanoides tuberculata) from Tighra Reservoir in Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). This reservoir is important not only for agricultural and drinking purposes, but is also located in close proximity to Great Indian Bustard sanctuary. The different types of organochlorine and organophosphorus pesticides were found in sediments and in the soft tissues of M. scabra and M. tuberculata. The concentration of different organochlorine and organophosphorus compounds were higher during winter seasons in sediments. On an average, M. scabra accumulated more organochlorine and organophosphorus compounds compared to M. tuberculata. Out of targeted 21 pesticides, 14 were found in the species selected for the present investigation.