Diuron concentrations along shorelines of Ishigaki and Iriomote islands, Japan

A study analyzing diuron concentrations along the shorelines of Ishigaki and Iriomote Islands, part of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, found generally low levels (≤32 ng l⁻¹) of this herbicide, with no evidence of toxicity to organisms. The highest concentrations were detected at a fishing port in Iriomote Island (32 ng l⁻¹) and a mooring point in Ishigaki Island (19 ng l⁻¹), suggesting contamination likely from antifouling paints used on boats. A notable concentration (14 ng l⁻¹) was also found in the estuary of Arakawa River, hinting at potential land-based sources. The study, conducted in September 2019, indicates localized contamination but reassures low environmental impact during the sampling period.

Tanita, I., & Onduka, T. (2021). Diuron concentrations along shorelines of Ishigaki and Iriomote islands, Japan. Galaxea, Journal of Coral Reef Studies, 23(1), 11–15. https://doi.org/10.3755/galaxea.g23-3