Chemical Composition and Some Trace Element Levels of Thinlip Mullet, Liza ramada Caught from Mersin Gulf

Abstract

In this study; proximate composition and three trace elements level of Liza ramada which were caught from military seaport of Mersin Gulf were determined. The average protein, fat, moisture and ash contents of muscle tissue are 16.02-17.66, 0.25-0.47, 80.70-82.19, 1.25-1.28 %, respectively. In addition, the average trace metal concentrations in the muscle and liver tissues varied in the following ranges respectively: Cu, 1.25-1.65; Fe, 11.78-12.92; Zn, 21.72-27.30; Cu, 875-2066; Fe, 1491-1825; Zn, 161-198 μg/g dry weight. According to the age, muscle tissue protein levels showed a decrease, while fat levels increases. Also tissue moisture levels increase in some quantity according to the age. There were no statistical difference between the age groups according to the Cu, Fe and Zn levels of muscle tissue. This state can be explained by the muscle tissue being less active in trace element cycle. Element levels of the liver tissue demonstrated an increase according to the age. The Cu level in the liver was especially high. Variations in liver tissue element levels can be explained by the liver tissue being more active in trace element metabolism.