Abstract:
This
study evaluates for the first time organophosphorus flame retardant
(OPFR) occurrence in the Alboran Sea delphinids (Spain). OPFRs were
detected in all the individuals with concentration levels up to 24.7
μg/g lw. Twelve out of sixteen tested analytes were detected, being
TBOEP which presented the highest detection frequency, and IDPP which
presented the highest levels of concentration. OPFR distribution in
different tissues (blubber, brain, kidney, muscle and liver) was
evaluated. The pattern distribution showed the highest contribution for
blubber (mean value of 68%) and the lowest contribution for liver (mean
value of 2%). Seven OPFRs were detected in brain samples showing their
capacity to surpass the blood-brain barrier and reach the brain.
Moreover, high affinity for the brain tissue was observed. This is
extremely important due to the neurotoxic effects of several compounds
such as TCEP and TNBP. OPFR levels were compared with previously
published PBDE concentrations, and no significant differences were
observed. Taking into account the lower use and lower bioaccumulation
and biomagnification capacities of OPFRs, this could indicate an
additional OPFR source of pollution in addition to their use as FRs.