Pesticide contamination in some tributaries of the Tyrrhenian Sea

Organophosphorus and organochlorine pesticides were analyzed in some tributaries of the Tyrrhenian Sea, draining an agricultural area of Southern Italy (Calabria). Dimethoate, diazinon and lindane are the pesticides most frequently found in river waters. Occasionally parathion‐methyl is present. Results are in good agreement with those expected on the basis of sale data and persistence. Pesticide concentration in water are generally higher by far than those of the large rivers and similar to levels determined in some other Mediterranean rivers (Spain, Greece). The risk to the aquatic life by these compounds and their contribution to the sea pollution are discussed.