 |
Feminization of fish: Female hormones are the cause
In 2001, Danish researchers detected feminized fish in watercourses near the city of Aarhus – one of the largest towns in Denmark.
The Danish Environment Minister subsequently launched a detailed analysis of the causes. The main conclusions of the report, which was published in 2002, is that feminization of fish is probably caused by natural female hormones. Oestrogens derived from human urine are excreted with domestic wastewater and hence may be discharged into the aquatic environment. A less significant source is synthetic hormones derived from contraceptive pills.
Other endocrine disrupting compounds are not considered to play a significant role in the development of feminized fish in Denmark.
The Danish EPA is now investigating the efficiency of wastewater treatment and removal of hormones at three Danish treatment plants. The findings will serve as the basis for a review of future initiatives to be presented by the Minister in spring 2003.
Further information: Inger Bergmann, Danish EPA. Phone: +45 3266 0359. E-mail: ib@mst.dk, or Inge Vibeke Hansen, Danish EPA. Phone +45 3266 0316. E-mail: ivh@mst.dk, or Jørgen Larsen, Danish EPA. Phone +45 3266 8930. E-mail: jl@mst.dk.
The report is available at: http://www.mst.dk/udgiv/publications/2002/87-7972-305-5/html/default_eng.htm
Back to the newsletter.
|
 |
Back
to the newsletter.
Newsletters
Search |
