Intersex fish spur runoff control call

[Shana A]

Intersex fish spur runoff control call
Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009

By JAY FRIESS

http://www.somdnews.com/stories/12302009/indytop103249_32180.shtml

The Potomac Conservancy's third annual State of the Nation's River report revealed the latest twist in the troubled river's pollution problems — intersex fish.

This year's report, released last month, focuses on such chemicals as phthalates, ethinylestradiol, bisphenol and atrazine — common chemicals found in shampoo, birth control pills, suntan lotion, food containers, product fragrances and even children's clothing.

When these substances find their way into the Potomac, they also have the unfortunate effect of creating intersex fish — with male and female reproductive parts — that cannot reproduce, according to the conservancy.