Presence and Distribution of Persistent Toxic Substances in Sediments and Marine Organisms of Potter Cove, Antarctica

Levels of butyltin compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals were analyzed in marine sediments and organisms (Notothenia coriiceps, Laternula elliptica, and Nacella concinna), each of which has a different feeding strategy, in Potter Cove, Antarctica. PCBs were lower than detection limits in all samples. Only butyltin compounds were detected in a restricted area near the scientific station. Chromium, copper, magnesium, lead (Pb), and zinc had similar behavior in the cove, probably because they are regulated by similar process and conditions. However, Pb levels in some sites of the cove seem to be related to human activities in the area. Cadmium levels were relatively low, with the highest values found close to the shoreline, which is probably influenced by seasonal streams draining waters from Potter Peninsula. Results showed that despite the fact that Jubany Station has been operating for > 50 years, surface sediment and biota from Potter Cove do not exhibit levels of pollutants representing environmental concern.