Minnesota Public Radio – Do household chemicals and prescription drugs leaching into Minnesota waters pose a serious risk to fish? Researchers are asking that question now, and they’re digging into the role faulty septic systems might play.
Scientists studying five central Minnesota lakes this summer are trying to better understand the ties between contaminants and fisheries. Steroids, hormones and pharmaceuticals are the main concern. A 2013 study found Minnesota lakes contaminated with those and other chemicals, including the insect repellent DEET and even cocaine.
In the lab, some chemicals affect fish reproduction and behavior, said Heiko Schoenfuss, the head of St. Cloud State University’s Aquatic Toxicology Lab.
Read more: http://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/06/09/minnesota-experts-ask-what-do-man-made-chemicals-do-to-fish
