The degradation of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene in an enclosed marine ecosystem

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1-1-1986

Abstract

Carbon-14 labeled 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) was introduced into a large marine microcosm containing an ecosystem functioning in a manner typical of shallow marine waters of the northeastern United States. The radiotracer was used to follow degradation products, including CO2, in the water and sediment for 62 days. Within 12h after the addition, 95 % of the DMBA was apparently photodegraded. About 20 % of the degradation products was transferred to the sediments. The rate of 14CO2 production resulting from the metabolism of degradation products was initially 0·63 % per day, then dropped to 0·13 % per day after day 40. After 62 days, 12 % of the material added had been respired to CO2 about 18 % could be extracted from sediments and about 70 % could not be extracted with the techniques used. © 1986.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Marine Environmental Research

Volume

18

Issue

2

Share

COinS