Bioaccumulation: Trouts, being carnivorous fish, feed on smaller organisms like zooplankton and insects that have ingested DDT from contaminated water or sediment. As trouts consume these organisms, DDT accumulates in their bodies. Since DDT is fat-soluble, it gets stored in the fatty tissues of the fish and can reach high concentrations over time.
Biomagnification: As trouts occupy a higher trophic level in the aquatic ecosystem, they become exposed to higher concentrations of DDT compared to lower-level organisms. This is because DDT is not easily metabolized or excreted by organisms and tends to magnify as it moves up the food chain. As trouts consume smaller organisms that have accumulated DDT, the concentration of DDT in their tissues increases, leading to biomagnification.
Reproductive Impairments: DDT can disrupt the endocrine system of trouts, particularly affecting their reproductive capabilities. DDT mimics the hormone estrogen and interferes with the normal production of sex hormones. This can lead to reproductive abnormalities, reduced fertility, and impaired egg development.
Eggshell Thinning: DDT affects the calcium metabolism of trouts, leading to thinner eggshells. Thin eggshells are more prone to breakage, resulting in reduced hatching success and increased embryo mortality. This can have severe consequences for trout populations and their reproductive success.
Impaired Immune Function: DDT can impair the immune system of trouts, making them more susceptible to diseases and infections. A compromised immune system can weaken the fish and increase their vulnerability to other environmental stressors.
Overall, DDT affects trouts by bioaccumulating and biomagnifying in their tissues, disrupting their reproductive system, causing eggshell thinning, and impairing their immune function. These impacts can have detrimental consequences for trout populations and their overall health and survival.