Natural radionuclides and heavy metals in fish from the Tracunhaém river in Nazaré da Mata-PE

Abstract

The Tracunhaém river that crosses the city of Nazaré da Mata is being the target of permanent and diverse environmental aggressions. The problem would be mainly caused by the discharge of domestic sewage without any treatment. In this context, the objective of this work was to use samples of traíra (Hoplias malabaricus) and curimatã (Prochilodus lineatus) fish as bioindicators of the levels of environmental pollution of the Tracunhaém river, in Nazaré da Mata city, in relation the presence of heavy metals (lead-Pb and cadmium-Cd) and natural radioactive elements (uranium-238U and thorium -232Th). For this purpose, the ICP-MS technique was used. The results showed that there is accumulation of Pb, Cd, 238U and 232Th in the trophic chain of the Tracunhaém river in the municipality of Nazaré da Mata. It is recommended that the traíra (Hoplias malabaricus) and curimatã (Prochilodus lineatus) fish of the Tracunhaém river, in the Nazaré da Mata city, are not consumed by humans due to the health risk. It is necessary to carry out an environmental education program with the purpose of raising the awareness of the local population about the damage caused to the Tracunhaém River, as well as the need from public authorities to implement sewage treatment units in the city of Nazaré da Mata.