ABSTRACT
Xenobiotic compounds are chemically synthesized and do not exist naturally in biological systems. The most common and widely distributed xenobiotics are pesticides. These compounds are often referred to as toxic organic compounds. These toxic organic compounds, when found at levels higher than background rates, can be toxic to biotic communities. Agricultural runoff is a major source of non-point source pollutants to wetlands, which includes pesticides associated with runoff from adjacent farmlands in the watershed. The US Environmental Protection Agency has set maximum acceptable levels for most pesticides in drinking water, but no set standards for pesticides on aquatic life are currently available. Pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and many other emerging contaminants have been detected in sewage effluents, soil, sediments, and surface waters. Pharmaceuticals, due to their amount and application for human and veterinary care, are entering streams and water bodies.
