Dear Kelly: Don´t know about the revutal to R. Carson's allegations, but there are tons of info (I am in the middle of México, a bit far from a library, and so I am at a disadvantage to give you relevant references ) on estrogen-like compounds that result from the breakdown of DDT, and that`s the concern with aquatic organisms, fish, amphibians and reptilians. I do remember a good paper in American Scientiest a while back if you want a more precise answer.
Kelly Stettner <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Date: Mon, 27 Aug 2007 06:06:18 -0700 From: Kelly Stettner <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [ECOLOG-L] DDT question To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU While I whole-heartedly agree that the larger and long-term picture must be considered with regards to ecology, I also think that emotional, knee-jerk reactions need to be tempered with real scientific investigation. Before our imaginations get too fired up over sensationalism, we need to be responsible and look at ALL the evidence, not just that which supports our hypothesis. For some reason, I thought that Rachel Carson's allegation about sea bird eggshells had been disproven? Can someone point to some of the research on both sides of the issue? Also, have there been studies on DDT's effects on animals, through groundwater or as an airborne spray or some other vector? What are these 'adverse impacts to polar bears and penguins' that you mention? How does it get there, does it last that long in the upper atmosphere to be carried to the poles on the wind? Sex reversal in fish ~ I'd also like to know about studies on this particular issue, since I've never heard of it, either. Are the fish affected when DDT moves through groundwater? What happens to DDT when it hits soil or water? Does it break down into component molecules? Thank you for considering my questions. Kelly Stettner Springfield, Vermont Black River Action Team (BRAT) 45 Coolidge Road Springfield, VT 05156 [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.blackriveractionteam.org ~Making ripples on the Black River since 2000! ~ --------------------------------- Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Yahoo! Travel. Abraham de Alba Avila Terrestrial Plant Ecology INIFAP-Ags Ap. postal 20, Pabellón Arteaga, 20660 Aguascalientes, MEXICO Tel: (465) 95-801-67, & 801-86 ext. 118, FAX ext 102 alternate: [EMAIL PROTECTED] cel: 449-157-7070 --------------------------------- Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell.