The adsorption of dimethyltin from a seawater matrix onto suspended particulate matter was studied The influences of pH and salinity, adsorption isotherms at various temperatures, and the adsorption rate under certain experimental conditions were determined. It was found that the adsorption capacity was highest at c. pH 6 and decreased with increasing salinity. The adsorption behaviour at various temperatures was described best by a Langmuir isotherm. The adsorption capacity of dimethyltin was higher in natural seawater than in artificial seawater at the same temperature.