Tributyltin in scottish sea lochs, as indicated by degree of imposex in the dogwhelk, Nucella lapillus (L.)

Abstract The development of male characteristics (termed imposex) in females of the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus is a sensitive indicator of tributyltin contamination. In Lochs Crinan, Laxford and Sween on the west coast of Scotland, observations of this effect and of the accumulation of tin in female dogwhelks have identified areas of contamination associated with seasonal small boat activity and salmon cage farms.