Metal Concentrations In Fish Research Articles

Assessment of heavy metal concentration in pelagic fish species and associated health risks along the Kanyakumari coast, India – a baseline study

ABSTRACT This research examines heavy metal concentration in fish from the Kanyakumari coast of India, emphasising its ecological consequences and possible health hazards for consumers. The study investigates the levels of several heavy metals such as zinc, manganese, iron, cadmium, copper, chromium, cobalt, lead, and nickel in different organs of multiple pelagic fish species obtained from the Kanyakumari fish landing site. Concentrations of heavy metals exhibit considerable variation among different fish organs and species, with distinct patterns identified for each metal. Muscle tissue often demonstrates reduced amounts of heavy metals in comparison to other organs. Except Zn and Fe, other heavy metals in fish muscle were above the acceptable limits set by health organisations. Cadmium was found to be 36-fold higher than the permissible limit, followed by nickel (30.4) and lead (7.6). Copper, nickel, and cadmium provide possible health hazards according to the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ). Lead and cadmium exhibit Excessive Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) markedly above tolerable thresholds. Large predatory fish, such as Thunnus thynnus, exhibit elevated levels of contaminants such as cadmium. Environmental conditions, aquatic habitat, and dietary intake affect metal build-up in fish. The research employs multiple analytical methods and statistical methods, such as Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, correlation and Principal Component Analysis, to evaluate heavy metal concentrations and their interrelations. The study underscores the critical necessity for monitoring and mitigation techniques to combat heavy metal pollution in coastal waters and its possible effects on human health through fish intake.

Metal concentrations in fish, crabs, and bivalve molluscs from marine waters adjacent to a multi-metals smelter and refinery

Metal concentrations were determined in tissues of finfish, crabs, and bivalve molluscs collected from marine waters near Port Pirie, South Australia, the site of a long-standing multi-metals smelter and refinery. A general trend of tissue metal concentrations in order of highest to lowest was observed in bivalves > crabs > finfish. A lead concentration of 158 ± 6.6 mg/kg (wet wt.) was observed in blue mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) sampled close to the smelter. Lead concentrations correlated positively with proximity to the smelter in all biota analysed. Similar relationships were observed for cadmium, copper, zinc and selenium in all biota except razorfish (Pinna bicolor; Bivalvia: Pinnidae), which showed no correlation with proximity to the smelter for these metals. Inorganic arsenic concentrations were below the limit of reporting in the majority of the analysed samples, however inorganic arsenic concentrations in blue swimmer crabs (Portunus armatus) and blue mussels correlated with proximity to the smelter. Mercury concentrations in the biota analysed were generally low and showed variable relationships with proximity to the smelter, with no significant correlation observed in finfish and razorfish, a significant positive correlation in blue mussels, and a significant negative correlation in blue swimmer crabs. This is the first major study of metal concentrations in recreationally-targeted marine species near Port Pirie species for more than two decades. Comparison with data from previous studies conducted shows little change in tissue metal concentrations in marine biota near Port Pirie over the past 40 years.

Heavy metal concentrations in fishes from Zakrzówek Reservoir and the Vistula River near Kraków: Human risk assessment

Abstract The aim of this study was to compare tissue concentrations of heavy metals (copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn)) in roach (Rutilus rutilus (L.)), chub (Squalius cephalus (L.)), and bleak (Alburnus alburnus (L.)) from two locations on the Vistula River upstream from Kraków and Zakrzówek Reservoir, a former limestone quarry flooded over 30 years ago that is located close to the center of Kraków. The findings showed that heavy metal concentrations in fishes from the Vistula River upstream from Kraków were higher compared to those in fishes from Zakrzówek Reservoir. The highest heavy metal concentrations were found in hard tissues, such as bone and scales, and the lowest was in muscle tissue. Metal pollution index (MPI), estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) analyses showed no significant non-carcinogenic risk to human health from the consumption of the muscle meat of the fishes analyzed. Cancer risk (CR) values, calculated based on maximum Ni concentrations in fish muscle tissue, did not exceed the upper limit of the acceptable cancer risk range. The findings show that the assessment of heavy metal contamination of fishes should be continued and extended to include other water bodies used for fishing and other xenobiotics that accumulate in fishes and may pose risks to human health.

Bioaccumulation of chemical elements in fish from areas affected by oil on the coast of Bahia, Brazil

In 2019, the Brazilian coast was affected by the largest oil spill in its history. We assessed the levels of chemical elements in Lutjanus synagris and Haemulon aurolienatum fish from Itacaré (least affected area), Tinharé-Boipeba (most affected area) and Madre de Deus (chronically affected area). The level of metals differed between species, tissues, life cycle phases, maturation stages and between sampled locations, indicating the influence of biological and environmental aspects on bioaccumulation. Only fish in Madre de Deus showed lead contamination, while arsenic concentrations in the three areas exceeded the maximum value acceptable by Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency). It is suggested that the oil spill may have impacted species differently, also having an impact in fish from less affected areas. However, metal concentrations in fish in Madre de Deus stood out when compared to populations in other studied areas.

Effect of domestic heat processing techniques on the trace metals concentration in imported frozen fish products in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, and health risk assessment

IntroductionTrace metals in fish play different important roles, both for the fish itself and humans who consume them. However, some of these metals are toxic at low concentrations, and are considered as health hazards. In this study, the concentration of six trace metals (Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Mn and Zn) were determined in imported frozen fish species available in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The effect of domestic heat processing techniques (cooking, frying and smoking) on the trace metals concentration, and the potential risk due to consumption of these metals in fish were also evaluated. MethodsSix different species of imported frozen fish species were purchased from wholesale and retail outlets, and were prepared as raw, cooked, fried and smoked samples. A mixture of acids was used for digestion of fish samples, while Flame atomic absorption spectrometer was used for quantification of metals. The hazard index was employed for evaluating the non-carcinogenic risk of metals in fish. ResultsThe average trace metals concentration in the raw fish samples followed the order: Zn > Cu > Cd > Ni > Mn. Pb was undetected in all fish samples. The concentration of the detected trace metals ranged as follows - Cd: 3.45–9.40 mg/kg, Ni: <0.001–13.13 mg/kg, Cu: 6.10–9.95 mg/kg, Mn: <0.001–1.05 mg/kg, and Zn: 14.50–43.65 mg/kg. The Cd concentration in all raw fish species greatly exceeded its permissible limits. The effect of domestic heat processing techniques on trace metals concentration in fish did not follow any regular pattern, and only Cd concentrations exceeded its permissible limit in all heat processed fish samples. The hazard quotient (HQ) values showed that only Cd had HQ values >1 for both child and adult exposure scenarios. ConclusionThe results suggest trace metal contamination of fish samples by Cd, with significant potential non-carcinogenic risk. Since Cd is toxic, continuous screening of imported fish products is necessary, in order to safeguard public health.

Investigation of Heavy Metal Toxicity and Sustainability of Aquatic Ecosystems in Jabi Lake, Abuja

The discharge of pollutants into freshwater ecosystems threatens environmental health and human means of livelihoods, especially in regions reliant on fisheries. This study explores the intricate relationship between aquatic toxicity and the Fauna sustainability in Jabi Lake, Abuja. Focusing on Clarias gariepinus, fish species. Nine fish samples and three water samples from Jabi Lake, Abuja, were analyzed for five heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Mn, and Fe), using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Results revealed permissible heavy metal concentrations in fish and water, according to FAO standards. However, prolonged exposure raises concerns for human health. Mean values for metal concentrations in fish (Cu 0.22±0.01 to 0.23±0.01 mg/kg; Zn 2.12±0.01 to 2.24±0.09 mg/kg; Pb 0.01±0.005 to 0.02±0.005 mg/kg; Mn 0.34±0.02 to 0.5±0.03 mg/kg; Fe 4.24±0.06 to 5.78±0.51 mg/kg), while in water (Cu 0.34±0.02 to 0.52±0.01 mg/l; Zn 2.91±0.045 to 3.2±0.19 mg/l; Pb 0.01±0.005 to 0.02±0.005 mg/l; Mn 0.71±0.01 to 0.9±0.02 mg/l; Fe 5.21±0.01 to 5.97±0.02 mg/l) were within permissible limits, except for Mn and Fe in water, which exceeded the WHO standards. Statistical analyses, including the student’s t-test (P&lt;0.05), show significant differences in Pb, Zn, and Mn concentrations in fish and water, but not in Cu and Fe. Anthropogenic activities like construction, sand filling, illegal fishing, and waste disposal contribute to fish diversity depletion, affecting vulnerable species like Catfish, Tilapia, Nile Perch, and Crayfish. The study noted declining incomes for local fishers due to disappearing fish species. While Catfish muscle’s metal concentrations meet FAO standards, ongoing monitoring is vital to preserve the ecosystem and safeguard human health. Mitigating anthropogenic activities and protecting vulnerable species are imperative for environmental integrity and community well-being.

Potential Health Hazards of Consuming Lutjanus Goreensis from Coastal Waters in the Niger Delta Contaminated with Toxic Metals

This study investigates the health risks associated with trace elements in Gorean snapper (Lutjanus goreensis) from Buguma Creek, Southern Nigeria. Fish samples were collected monthly from May to August 2023, and muscle tissues were analyzed for potential health risks posed by elevated levels of hazardous metals. The concentrations of various heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, and As) in Gorean Snapper collected from different locations (Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3) were measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/Kg) of fish tissue. Results revealed varying metal concentrations across stations, with notable differences in Fe, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, and As levels. The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) values for Cadmium (Cd) were relatively low for both adults and children across all three stations. However, Lead (Pb) and Arsenic (As) exhibited low EDI values, while Zinc (Zn) showed significantly higher values, especially at Station 3. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) results indicated potential health risks associated with Zinc exposure, particularly at Station 3, for both adults and children. Carcinogenic Risk (CR) analysis revealed potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to Cadmium for adults. The CR values for Lead and Arsenic fell within acceptable ranges. This study raises concerns about potential health risks associated with the consumption of L. goreensis from Buguma and recommends the continuous monitoring of heavy metal concentrations, public awareness programs, further research, collaboration among stakeholders, and the implementation of best practices in aquaculture and fisheries management to reduce heavy metal concentrations in fish.

Elucidating the effects of heavy metals contamination on vital organ of fish and migratory birds found at fresh water ecosystem

Heavy metal pollution in aquatic environments threatens marine life and lowers the quality of freshwater supplies. This research aimed to quantify the heavy metal concentration in fish, avian tissue, and water of the Mangla reservoir. Concentrations of heavy metals such as Cu, Cd, Cr, and Pb were determined in five vital organs of six species of fishes (Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Catla catla, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Wallagu attu, Cyprinus carpio, Sperata seenghala) and five species of migratory birds (Anas strepera, Aythya ferina, Anas platyrhynchos, Anas crecca, Anas clypeata) and water of Mangla dam. Heavy metal concentration was observed with AAS’ help after the samples’ complete chemical digestion. The average concentration of these metals in water samples was higher than the mean values in fish and birds. Heavy metals damaged fish and birds in the same order: Cd > Cu > Cr > Pb. The results of this research will hopefully prompt further consideration on the dangers of heavy metal contamination in freshwater ecosystem.

Assessment of Potentially Toxic Metals in Fish from Lake Manyara, Northern Tanzania

Elemental tracer concentrations of copper, lead, nickel and zinc, were assessed in the muscles of Oreochromis amphimelas and Clarias gariepinus from Lake Manyara, Tanzania, to evaluate their safety to consumers, specifically humans. Results revealed that no elemental concentrations exceeded the FAO permissible levels, indicating fish from all sites are safe for human consumption. However, based on the highest found concentration of Pb, we recommend a maximum consumption of 2.2 kg of fish from Lake Manyara per week. No significant differences were observed in the metal concentrations between the two fish species, suggesting there is no bioaccumulation in the food chain. Moreover, no significant differences were found between fish landing sites, indicating there are no regions in the lake with higher pollution. These findings indicate that PTM concentrations have not increased to toxic levels due to increased mobilisation from the catchment. Continued monitoring of potential toxic metal concentrations in fish is recommended due to endorheic nature of Lake Manyara and increasing anthropogenic activities in its catchment area.

A spatiotemporal study on contamination and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in sediment and cyprinid fish (Capoeta razii) from Telar River, Iran

The concentrations of heavy metals (Cr, Cd, Ni, and Pb) were investigated in sediment and cyprinid fish (Capoeta razii) from Telar River, Iran in spring, summer, and autumn. Mean concentration of metals in fish and sediment over the seasonal sampling was as follows: Cr > Ni > Pb > Cd. Metal deposition in sediment was higher than their bioaccumulation in fish tissue. Unlike sedimentary metals, the tissue-content of Pb and Cr varied seasonally. Enrichment Factor (EF) values of Cr and Ni showed partial enrichment, implicating the role of anthropogenic inputs, while Pb was derived from natural weathering. When considering Pollution Load Index (PLI), an uneven temporal and spatial distribution of contamination was observed in sediment with moderate contamination level in spring and summer and no pollution in autumn. Tissue-contents of Pb, Cr, and Cd were below permissible limits while a higher risk level of Ni was noted for human consumption.

Heavy metal levels in fish products in Indonesia: a survey

Indonesia is the biggest archipelago in the world with large water areas. Indonesia produces and consumes a high amount of fishery products. However, there is a heightened risk of heavy metal contaminants in those products as heavy metals are accumulated along the aquatic food chain. In this review, the concentration of heavy metals, mainly arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead, in fish and fish products acquired in Indonesia were discussed. Those heavy metals are toxic at low levels and their concentrations in fish and fish products are regulated by the National Agency of Drug and Food. In some polluted areas, such as Ciliwung River (Jakarta and West Java), Donan River (Central Java), and Jakarta Bay, the content of heavy metals in fish were above the permitted threshold. Surveillance of the heavy metal concentrations in fish and fish products by the National Agency of Drug and Food has been implemented but a more frequent and thorough inspection is needed. Moreover, fishing should be discouraged in highly polluted areas by the local government to avoid the consumption of contaminated aquatic animal products.

Assessment of heavy metal concentrations in fish, water and sediment of Koramar Wanke Dam Gusau, Zamfara State, Nigeria

Assessment of heavy metal concentrations in fish, water and sediment of Koramar Wanke Dam Gusau, Zamfara State, Nigeria

Assessment and Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Fish Feeds, Water, and Some Tissues of Cyprinus carpio Cultured in Different Environments (Biofloc Technology and Earthen Pond System).

Fish feed quality is the main determinant of fish flesh quality, so it is important for successful aquaculture. The current study determines the concentration of heavy metals in fish feeds (A and B), water, and their bioaccumulation in gills, liver, and muscle of C. carpio cultured in different environments (biofloc technology and earthen pond systems). In addition, the correlation between heavy metals in fish feeds with bioaccumulated metals in fish tissues was also determined. Results revealed that most heavy metal concentration was significantly greater (P < 0.05) in feed B than in feed A but in permissible range, while all the heavy metal concentration was notably higher in earthen ponds than in biofloc technology. Result from the bioaccumulation factor and concentration of the metals showed that heavy metals were highly accumulated in the fish liver followed by gills. The metal concentration in fish feeds and fish edible parts (muscle) was lower than the WHO standard level; however, the amount of Pb was higher in the fish muscle, liver, and gills, which is harmful for human consumption and also for fish health. Though the correlation test revealed that all of the metals from the feeds were positively correlated to the metals in fish tissues, but most of the estimated correlation was significant and linearly correlated. It can be concluded that producers must measure feed quality correctly to avoid heavy metal contamination because it may assimilate and accumulate in the food chain.

Assessment of Some Heavy Metal Concentration in Fish, Water, And Sediment Of River Ndakotsu, Lapai, Niger State

This research was conducted to assess the levels of heavy metals in fish tissue, sediment and water body, at river Ndakotsu, Lapai, Niger state, Nigeria. River Ndakotsu is the major river that serve as a boundary between Lapai local government and Agaie local government and is useful to surrounding towns and villages for irrigation farming fishing and domestic purposes. Due to this, it is necessary to monitor the level of heavy metals contamination in the water body, sediment and aquatic species tissue habiting this environment. The study water samples were collected using water sampler in three different locations. Equally, In-situ water physicochemical parameters such as temperature, ph and dissolve oxygen were determined using portable multi probes meter. Fish samples were collected from fishermen immediately they arrived from fish exploration and specimen were digested using concentrated nitric acid in wet digestion technique. The level of selected heavy metal in samples were determined by the use of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS model: Accusys 211 USA) after samples dilution. The water quality of the river was within the acceptable range for fresh water species. The concentration of heavy metals, cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn). From the results obtained from this study, the concentrations of heavy metals (Mn, Zn, Cd, Cu, Pb and Fe.) found in all the water samples are lower than that in the fish sample species and higher in sediment sample than fish sample

Evaluation and Association of Heavy Metals in Commonly Used Fish Feed with Metals Concentration in Some Tissues of O. niloticus Cultured in Biofloc Technology and Earthen Pond System.

For successful aquaculture, the primary need is the quality of fish feed, which determines fish flesh quality. The current study was conducted to evaluate the number and concentration of heavy metals in commonly used fish feeds and fish gills, liver, and muscle of biofloc technology and earthen pond systems. Besides this, the correlation between heavy metals in fish feeds with detected metals in the gills, liver, and muscle of fish was also determined. Results revealed that heavy metals concentration, including Cu and Cd, in feed B was significantly greater than in feed A, but the Zn level in feed A was significantly higher than in feed B. Furthermore, the concentration of heavy metals in fish of both aquaculture systems was significantly higher in the liver than in the gills and muscle. The metal concentration in fish feeds and fish edible parts (muscle) was lower than the WHO standard level; however, the amount of Pb was higher in the fish muscle, which is harmful for human consumption. Though the correlation test revealed that all of the metals from the feeds were positively correlated to the metals detected in the fish, but most of the estimated correlation was insignificant. From the current study, it can be concluded that the fish feed producers need to measure feed quality adequately to avoid hazardous contamination by heavy metals in the feed. The ultimate consumer, fish and humans, may, otherwise, be predisposed to assimilate and accumulate these heavy metals.

Plankton composition and heavy metal concentrations in fish from Bundu-Ama Creek, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

This study examines plankton composition and diversity as well as the heavy metal concentrations in fish from Bundu-ama creek, rivers State, Nigeria. The heavy metals tested were Nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results for the heavy metals are as follows; Ni was below detectable limit throughout the points in the first month, while in the second month and third month it ranged from (0.038±0.046mg/kg to 0.0213±0.037mg/kg), Cr ranged from (0.029±0.006mg/kg to 0.409±0.0386mg/kg), Cu ranged from (2.116±0.773mg/kg to 3.467±0.248mg/kg), Zn ranged from (3.393±0.280mg/kg to 2.75±0.844mg/kg) and Cd was below detectable limit. The highest phytoplankton species identified belongs to the family Bacillariophyta, while the highest zooplankton species identified belongs to the family Copepoda. Heavy metals were above WHO limits indicating that the creek is polluted due to anthropogenic activities in the area and consumption of the fishes may be considered unsafe.

Plankton composition and heavy metal concentrations in fish from Bundu-Ama Creek, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Plankton composition and heavy metal concentrations in fish from Bundu-Ama Creek, Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Metal-associated human health risk assessment due to consumption of pelagic and benthic ichthyofaunal resources from the highly contaminated Cuddalore coast in Southern India

We present seasonal variation of four metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn) in nine pelagic and three benthic fish species from the highly polluted Cuddalore coast in Tamil Nadu, India. Metals were assessed using atomic absorption spectrometry and detected in all fish species, in at least one season, except Iniistius cyanifrons where cadmium was not detected throughout. In both benthic and pelagic fish, order of metal concentration was Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that metals may have originated from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Health risk assessment revealed that consumption of fish from Cuddalore coast does not pose health risk for now; however, hazard index values (pelagic = 0.97; benthic = 0.90) are in borderline. Even a slight increase in metal concentration in fish can prove hazardous for human consumption. Sooner or later, eating fish from Cuddalore coast may pose a considerable health risk to humans if metal pollution is not held at Bay.

The Bioaccumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Metals among Two Most Consumed Species of Angling Fish (Cyprinus carpio and Pseudohemiculter dispar) in Liuzhou (China): Winter Should Be Treated as a Suitable Season for Fish Angling.

Wild fish caught by anglers were validated to be commonly polluted by metals, but their contamination status could be varied with changing seasons. To determine the seasonal variation in metal pollution and health risks in these fish, this study took Liuzhou City as an example to investigate the concentrations of eight metals in two dominant angling fishes (Cyprinus carpio and Pseudohemiculter dispar) collected, respectively, in winter and summer. The obtained results suggested the mean concentrations of metals in fish are overall lower in winter. Only Cr, Zn, and Cd in some fish were beyond the thresholds in summer. The significant correlations between fish length and weight and most metals suggested the biological dilution effect could exert its influence in winter. The similar distribution of metals in winter suggested that metal bioaccumulation should be manipulated by living habitats, while the inconsistent distribution of metals in summer may be related to the variation in feeding behavior. The metal pollution index (Pi) values were all below 0.2 in winter, which suggested no metal contamination in fish, but most fish were found to be mostly contaminated by Cr and Cd in summer, which was confirmed by their Pi > 0.2. The fish could be consumed freely in winter due to the total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) below 1, while the consumption of fish was not entirely safe in summer, particularly for children, due to TTHQ values that were generally beyond 1. Given the higher weekly recommended consumption of fish in winter, winter should be treated as a suitable season for fish angling.

Bioaccumulation and Bioconcentration Factor of Heavy Metals in the Tissues of Freshwater Fish Channa punctatus Collected from Sawan Nallaha, Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, India

Heavy metal pollution in aquatic environment has a significant adverse effect on fishes and also to the human being. The present investigation was designed to assess the concentrations of heavy metals in water and fish, Channa punctatus of Sawan Nallaha, a tributary of River Rapti in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, India. The different water samples were collected from the Sawan Nallaha, downstream the city of Balrampur, and analyzed for the selected heavy metals by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The concentration of heavy metals in Sawan Nallaha was below the permissible limit of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Heavy metal accumulation and bioconcentration factor were studied in gill, liver, kidney and muscles of fish, Channa punctatus inhabiting the Sawan Nallaha. The order of bioaccumulation of different metal concentrations in fish was: Ni &gt;Pb&gt;Mn&gt; Zn &gt; Cr &gt; Cu&gt;Cd and the order of total observed metal concentration in tissues was Liver&gt; Kidney&gt;Gill&gt; Muscles. The results of Bioconcentration Factor (BCF) showed that fish, Channa punctatus has the ability to accumulate heavy metals in its tissues. As illustrated in BCFs, most of the heavy metals moderately bioaccumulate except nickel and lead which are highly accumulative. The fish, Channa punctatus in this study was used as biomonitoring indicator