Women trail US by 15 shots in Argentina
The trio of Kelsey MacDonald, Louise Kenney and Sally Watson, who went into the biennial event with high hopes, struggled to a seven-over team total of 151 at the Olivos course.
That left Lesley Nicholson's side a massive 15 shots behind early clubhouse leaders USA, who were on eight-under 136.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdKenney was the best of the Scots with a three-over 75 which was sent veering off course with a triple-bogey seven on the 12th.
South Queensferry youngster Watson, who played in July's US Women's Open, had been two-under through three but the wheels started to come off around the turn and she had to settle for a 76.
MacDonald, the national champion and the runner-up in the British championship, had a non-counting 78.
At the head of the field, the USA, aiming for a 14th world crown, underlined their title credentials with an impressive opening-day display.
Czech-born Jessica Korda and Cydney Clanton posted a pair of 68s.