First assessment of Rare Earth Element organotropism in Solea solea in a coastal area: The West Gironde Mud Patch (France)

Abstract

Few studies exist on concentration and internal distribution of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in marine fishes. REEs organotropism was determined in common sole (Solea solea) from the West Gironde Mud Patch (WGMP; N-E Atlantic Coast, France). The highest ∑REEs concentrations occurred in liver (213 ± 49.9 μg kg−1 DW) and gills (119 ± 77.5 μg kg−1 DW) followed by kidneys (57.7 ± 25.5 μg kg−1 DW), whereas the lowest levels were in muscles (4.53 ± 1.36 μg kg−1 DW) of Solea solea. No significant age- or sex-related differences were observed. The organotropism varied among groups of REEs. Light and heavy REEs preferentially accumulated in liver and gills, respectively. All considered organs showed different normalized REEs patterns, suggesting differences in internal distribution processes between organs. Further work should address: (1) baseline levels worldwide, and (2) factors controlling uptake and organ-specific concentration of REEs.