Plasma Androgen Correlation, EROD Induction, Reduced Condition Factor, and the Occurrence of Organochlorine Pollutants in Reproductively Immature White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) from the Columbia River, USA

Abstract

White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) support an active fishery in the Columbia River, but there is poor reproductive success within the impounded sections. The poor reproductive success has been attributed to hydroelectric development; however, water pollution could be a significant factor. White sturgeon plasma, liver, and gonad samples were collected from four Columbia River locations and a California aquaculture facility. Total length and weight of the fish were measured, and plasma samples were analyzed for testosterone (T), 11-ketotestosterone (KT), 17β-estradiol (E2), and vitellogenin. Liver samples were analyzed for chlorinated pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity and histopathology. Gonads were examined histologically to assess sexual maturity and characterize any lesions. Significant differences by location existed for p,p′-DDE, EROD activity, and condition factor. Plasma T was negatively correlated with p,p′-DDE in males and females, and plasma KT was negatively correlated in males. These data indicate that pollutants could be adversely affecting white sturgeon in the Columbia River basin.