Which compound from DDT metabolism is linked to thinning eggs in birds?

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Study for the Air and Water Pollution Control Exam. Prepare with comprehensive multiple choice questions, detailed hints, and explanations. Enhance your knowledge and ensure exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which compound from DDT metabolism is linked to thinning eggs in birds?

Explanation:
When a bird metabolizes DDT, it mainly forms DDE and DDD, and the thinning of eggshells is specifically linked to DDE. DDE disrupts the calcium deposition process in the shell gland, weakening the shell as it forms. This makes eggs more fragile and prone to breakage, which reduces reproductive success. DDT itself is the parent compound, and DDD is another metabolite with different effects, but they’re not the primary culprits for eggshell thinning. PCBs are a separate class of pollutants and not a metabolite of DDT.

When a bird metabolizes DDT, it mainly forms DDE and DDD, and the thinning of eggshells is specifically linked to DDE. DDE disrupts the calcium deposition process in the shell gland, weakening the shell as it forms. This makes eggs more fragile and prone to breakage, which reduces reproductive success. DDT itself is the parent compound, and DDD is another metabolite with different effects, but they’re not the primary culprits for eggshell thinning. PCBs are a separate class of pollutants and not a metabolite of DDT.

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