Publication Abstract

Abnormally elevated VTG concentrations in flounder (Platichthys flesus) from the Mersey Estuary (UK) – a continuing problem

A.Kleinkauf, A.P. Scott, C. Stewart, M.G. Simpson and R.T. Leah

Vitellogenin (VTG) plasma concentrations were measured in flounder (Platicthys flesus L.) caught in two neighbouring UK estuaries between autumn 1997 and summer 2000. As found in previous studies, male and immature female flounders that were caught in the Mersey, but not in the Dee, had abnormally elevated concentrations of VTG in their plasma - evidence of the presence in the Mersey of xenoestrogens. The present study reveals a marked seasonal cycle in VTG concentrations in males. In late spring and summer, male flounders in the Mersey have relatively low concentrations of VTG (mg/ml range). However, in mid-winter, mean concentrations are as high as 5 mg/ml. There is also evidence that there was a lessening in the degree of estrogenic endocrine disruption between 1996-1997 (the period of the initial studies on the Mersey) and 1998-2000 (the period covered by the present study).

Reference:

A.Kleinkauf, A.P. Scott, C. Stewart, M.G. Simpson and R.T. Leah (2004) Abnormally elevated VTG concentrations in flounder (Platichthys flesus) from the Mersey Estuary (UK) – a continuing problem. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 58: 356-364