Abstract

Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) mass fractions were estimated in samples from two benthic species of fish, goby and sole, originating from Thermaikos Gulf in north Greece. The samples were analyzed using a well-established cold extraction method. The average total (Σ PBDE) ranged from 8.98 to 35.00 ng g-1 lipid weight (lw) and 12.36 to 163.26 ng g-1 lw for goby and sole, respectively. Significant differences were observed between samplings but not between the two species. Thermaikos Gulf was classified as low polluted or comparable with regard to similar areas worldwide; however, the notable mass fraction increase in some cases as well as the increasing temporal trend of PBDE levels established for both species signify the need for further monitoring. Congener profiles showed dominance of penta-/octa-BDEs (50-70% from Σ PBDEs) and the presence of deca-BDE as well (18-19%). Congener correlation analysis suggested different pollution sources between higher and lower brominated congeners, as well as different metabolic/degradation processes. Calculations of bioaccumulation factors (BSAF) highlighted the influence of congener bromination degree on the bioaccumulation potential

Keywords: Brominated flame retardants (BFRs); Aquatic ecosystem; Bioaccumulation; Benthic species; Environmental pollution monitoring; Congener profile