Accumulation of tributyltin and triphenyltin compounds in laboratory exposure and their induction of imposex in rock shell (Thais clavigera)

A laboratory exposure experiment was conducted to evaluate imposex (imposition of male sexual organ on female) induction potential of tributyltin (TBT) and triphenyltin (TPT) in rock shell,Thais clavigera. Apparent induction of imposex was observed in rock shell, exposed to TBT and TPT compound at well below 3.65 ng Sn/L respectively. Degree of imposex in female rock shell was dependent on both TBT and TPT exposure concentrations. No additive and/or synergistic effects were observed in combined exposure of TBT and TPT. Rock shell readily accumulated water borne TBT and TPT compounds in an exposure concentration and duration (62 days) dependant manner, and showed more efficient metabolic capacity for TBT than TPT. Tissue TBT concentration and degree of imposex in rock shell showed a significant positive correlation, but to a lesser extent with tissue TPT concentrations. © 2009 The Korean Society of Environmental Risk Assessment and Health Science and Springer.