PCBs in wild mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from the N-NW Spanish coast: Current levels and long-term trends during the period 1991-2009

Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in wild mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from seven areas of the N-NW Spanish coast, during the period 1991-2009. The studied area is comprised of highly productive ecosystems which support important commercial fishing and shellfishing activities. The seven PCBs indicator congeners recommended by ICES (IUPAC nos. 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153 and 180), were analysed by gas chromatography with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD). Lowest average concentrations of PCBs were recorded in Arousa (1.04 μg kg−1 wet weight), a low populated area with no industry; while the highest levels were found in areas near cities and/or showing a high industrial activity such as: Bilbao Ziérbena (139 μg kg−1 ww) or A Coruña (55 μg kg−1 ww). The hexachlorinated congeners CB153 and CB138 dominated the profiles in all wild mussel populations, although a geographical pattern was found in which the relative contributions of the lower chlorinated congeners were higher in the west coast (Rías of Vigo, Pontevedra and Arousa), which may reflect the occurrence of recent inputs of those compounds in the area. Finally, the application of the Mann-Kendall's test demonstrate the existence of a significant decrease in PCBs levels since 1991 up to 1996 in the studied area, whereas either a slow decrease or stable concentrations were registered over the past decade.

► We determined PCBs in mussels from the N-NW Spanish coast during the period 1991-2009. ► The hexachlorinated congeners dominated the profiles in all mussel populations. ► The relative contributions of the lower chlorinated congeners were higher in the west coast. ► A slow decrease or stable PCBs levels were registered over the past decade in the studied area. ► The efficiency of the PCB legislation for the protection of coastal areas is questioned.