ABSTRACT

Tributyltin (TBT), an organometallic molecule, is one of the most potent pesticides ever introduced into the environment. Its introduction into marine ecosystems is primarily attributable to its use as the active compound in antifouling paints. Fouling is caused

CONTENTS

9.1 Imposex ............................................................................................................................... 219 9.1.1 Inputs of Tributyltin into Marine Waters ........................................................... 219 9.1.2 Imposex: A Bioindicator Specic for TBT Contamination ............................... 220

9.1.2.1 TBT Is Responsible for Masculinization of Female Gastropods ...... 220 9.1.2.2 Relation between Imposex Development and TBT

Contamination Levels ............................................................................ 220 9.1.2.3 Do Any Other Factors Inuence Imposex Development?................. 221

9.1.3 Biological Mechanisms for Imposex Development ..........................................222 9.1.4 Temporal Evolution of TBT Contamination .......................................................223