Metal concentrations in various fish organs of different fish species from Poyang Lake, China

Abstract

Concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn in the muscle of eleven fish species (bighead carp, bream, catfish, carp, crucian, Culter alburnus, grass carp, mandarin fish, white semiknife carp, silver carp, and yellow catfish) from Poyang Lake were analysed using inductive coupling plasma mass spectrometry. Metal levels in other organs (e.g., bladder, gill, kidney, liver, and spleen) of bighead carp, carp, grass carp, and silver carp were also determined. The results showed that metal concentrations in the muscle of all fish species were significantly lower than the proposed limits. Heavy metal concentrations were found to be substantially higher in benthic fish than in pelagic fish. Higher Hg contents were observed in predatory fish. In addition, various metals showed different affinity to fish organs. Hg was the most abundant in muscle, while Ni and Pb concentrations were highest in gills, Cd and Zn concentrations were highest in kidneys, and Cu was most commonly found in livers. Estimations of health risks revealed no evidence of potential threats to consumers.