Abstract
Total mercury concentration was investigated in the edible portion (muscle tissue) of twelve commercial trawl fishes. Samples were collected by a commercial trawl from five stations along the Mediterranean coast of Israel at depths from 32.9 – 91.4 m. The range and average mercury concentrations for both individual and composite samples of ten species are tabulated. The range of total lengths and weights for each species is also given. For two species only one composite sample was obtained. Sufficient data were obtained for five species to discuss the variation of mercury concentration with length, with depth and by station. Mercury concentration was found to increase with length for Saurida undosquamis, Trachurus mediterraneus, Upeneus moluccensis and Pagellus erythrinus. The correlation between mercury concentration and total length in Mullus barbatus was low. The mercury concentration of this species appeared to increase with depth. Mercury concentration in the fishes examined is discussed in regard to their position in the food web, depths and distribution along the shore.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
