Essential and non-essential elements in the endemic Peppered catshark Galeus piperatus of deep-ocean waters from northern Gulf of California: Baseline levels and Se ratios

Abstract

In this study the levels of As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, Se, Zn and Se:Hg molar ratios, in muscle and liver of the endemic catshark Galeus piperatus from the northern Gulf of California (NGC) and relationships with biological parameters, were determined. Arsenic presented the highest levels for both tissues and Pb the lowest. The Se:Hg molar ratios were >1. Sex was not a determining factor in accumulation of elements. The differences in the levels of the studied elements between tissues might be due to their physiological functions and the availability of the metal(loid)s. The diet was considered as an important contribution pathway of these elements despite the fact that G. piperatus feeding habits are still unknown. More research is necessary to clearly understand the interactions between the biology of G. piperatus and the bioavailability of the studied elements and use this endemic shark species as a potential deep-sea biomonitor in NGC.