PCBs, chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides and chlorophenols in the Isipingo Estuary, Natal, Republic of South Africa

Water samples from the Isipingo estuary were analysed for chlorophenols, and 8 fish species for PCB and chlorinated pesticides. Higher chlorophenol concentrations were found in May than April 1991, with all results much lower than the 200 ug per litre limit suggested in South Africa for protection of aquatic life. All 8 fish species contained some DDT metabolites and the PCB, Arochlor 1254, with maxima of 123 and 869 ug per kg for total DDT and Arochlor 1254, respectively. Lindane was detected in 7 fish species with a maximum of 4.12 ug per kg and heptachlor in 2 species with a maximum of 1.12 ug per kg. The concentrations of DDT, heptachlor and lindane were within the acceptable daily intake values set by the World Health Organisation.