Levels of organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs] in pikeperch [Stizostedion lucioperca L.] from selected lakes of Varmia and Mazuria

This paper presents the results of studies on the content of organochlorine pesticides and poly- chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in muscle tissue of pikeperch caught in some lakes (Wadąg, Długie, Jeziorak) of Varmia and Mazuria, North-East Poland. Levels of DDT, DDD, DDE, y-HCH and PCBs were determined with gas chromatography. The results revealed relatively low content of these substances in pikeperch meat, although their levels differed depending on the place where the fish were caught. Average level of I DDT and PCBs residues was the highest in the muscles of fish caught in Długie Lake, amounting respectively to 1448 (μg/kg and 700 μg/kg of the extracted fat. The highest average concentration of y-HCH (83 (μg/kg of fat) was observed in pikeperch caught in Jeziorak Lake.