Determination and distribution of endosulfan and malathion in an indian estuary

A field survey was conducted to determine the spatial and seasonal distribution of two very common pesticides, Endosulfan and Malathion, in Cochin estuary, India. Six sampling stations along the estuary were identified and analyses were carried out during premonsoon, monsoon and postmonsoon seasons. Pesticide levels were higher during the premonsoon period than during the postmonsoon season. Throughout the monsoon season, the estuary remained largely free of the pesticides except at the mid-estuarine region which was characterized by prominent agricultural runoff. One of the sampling sites located in the riverine area was designated as “pesticide-loading site” in view of its proximity to the pesticide-manufacturing unit.