Bioaccumulation of trace elements (Cd, Hg, Pb, Fe and Zn) in seven fish species, crustaceans and mussels from the Gulf of Skikda, Southern Mediterranean Sea
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12834/VetIt.3849.37542.2Keywords:
heavy metals, bioaccumulation, muscle, seafood, Mediterranean Sea, SkikdaAbstract
The study investigates the concentrations of five heavy metals in seven seafood species from the Gulf of Skikda, the southern Mediterranean Sea, Algeria. The aim is to assess contamination levels, and compliance with European food safety regulations. Between February and August 2018, muscle samples were collected from five fish species (Sardina pilchardus, Sarda sarda, Mugil cephalus, Xiphias gladius, Thunnus thynnus), the deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris), and the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Samples were oven-dried, acid-digested, and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for Cd, Pb, Fe and Zn; and by the flow injection hydride analysis system (FIAS) for Hg. Data were expressed in mg kg⁻¹ wet weight (ww) and statistically compared by one-way ANOVA (p≤0.05). The results revealed significant interspecies differences (p < 0.001) in metal accumulation patterns. Cd (0.139 mg·kg⁻¹ ww) and Hg (0.040 mg·kg⁻¹ ww) were significantly higher in grey mullet and tuna respectively (p < 0.001); both exceeding permissible regulatory limits. The remaining of heavy metals complied with guidelines. Mussels showed the highest Cd and Pb levels but remained within food safety limits. Sardines demonstrated a favorable nutritional profile, with high essential elements and low toxic metals. The study data recommend avoiding consumption of grey mullet and avoiding regular consumption of tuna caught in the fishing areas of Skikda Bay. Regular monitoring of heavy metal contamination in Algerian seafood is necessary to ensure consumer safety.References
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