Some risk factors that affect contamination of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

N Grković,V Teodorović,V Đorđević,B Velebit,N Karabasil,M Dimitrijević,D Vasilev

doi:10.1088/1755-1315/85/1/012075

Abstract

Pollution and contamination of the Bay of Kotor ecosystem arise from both anthropogenic sources and natural weathering. In recent decades, a need has arisen for regular control of marine organisms, which are used in human nutrition, because the entire bay is constantly and increasingly exposed to negative anthropogenic impact. Molluscs, including mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis), can be involved in foodborne disease. They are filter feeding organisms, able to retain and concentrate in their bodies the bacteria, parasites, viruses and biotoxins of marine algae present in their external environment. A structured field study was undertaken in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, in order to investigate plausible influence of environmental factors, like rainfall and temperature, on the variability of Escherichia coli and norovirus (NoV). This study focuses on human-derived pathogens that are abundant in sewage-related sources. We proved the negative correlation between outside temperature and the number of E.coli and the presents of Norovirus in Bay of Kotor mussel. We used this data from the sampling site to discuss options to better manage the risk of contamination of shellfish. From the aspect of food safety, an upgrade of monitoring plans in the future could lead to obtaining safer products.

Highlights

With the increase in the consumption of seafood in recent years, marine mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) have become commercially more important seafood species worldwide
A need has arisen for regular control of marine organisms, which are used in human nutrition, because the entire bay is constantly and increasingly exposed to negative anthropogenic impact
A structured field study was undertaken in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, in order to investigate plausible influence of environmental factors, like rainfall and temperature, on the variability of Escherichia coli and norovirus (NoV)

Summary

Introduction

With the increase in the consumption of seafood in recent years, marine mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) have become commercially more important seafood species worldwide. They are available throughout the year, and are reasonably tolerant to environmental change and pollution [1]. In recent decades, growing urbanization and industrialization led to extensive settlement of the Montenegrin coast, and caused pollution of the environment of the Bay of Kotor, especially the sea water and organisms that live in it. Wastes from various industries, shipyards, hotels and hospitals near the bay discharge into the sea and are a constant source of pollution of the aquatic environment.

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Conclusion