Bioaccumulation of heavy metals and mineral content in European flounder (Platichthys flesus) fillets and gonads in the southern Black Sea
Heavy metals and mineral content in European flounder
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19651746Keywords:
Platichthys flesus, flounder, metal contamination, mineral matterAbstract
The research investigated the accumulation of essential and non-essential elements in the fillets and gonads of European flounder (Platichthys flesus) from the Southern Black Sea, specifically the Sinop coast of Türkiye. Twelve samples collected during January and February 2022 underwent ICP-MS analysis following microwave digestion. Findings showed distinct variations between tissues and months: gonadal sodium (Na) levels rose from 708.34 ± 0.001 mg/kg in January to 977.54±0.003 mg/kg in February, while fillet Na increased from 910.26±0.002 mg/kg to 1194.27±0.002 mg/kg. Gonadal phosphorus (P) decreased from 4291.53±0.001 mg/kg to 3902.91±0.002 mg/kg, whereas fillet P increased from 1896.78±0.001 mg/kg to 2054.80±0.001 mg/kg. Concentrations of non-essential metals such as cadmium (Cd) (gonad: 0.012–0.002 mg/kg; fillet: <0.000–0.009 mg/kg) and lead (Pb) (gonad: 0.042–0.058 mg/kg; fillet: 0.022–0.031 mg/kg) were within regulatory limits, except for arsenic (As), which exceeded thresholds in fillets (5.927–5.773 mg/kg). Health risk assessments using Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Risk Index (RI) revealed potential non-carcinogenic risks for children (THQ >1) due to elevated As levels in fillets. Although most metals did not pose immediate health risks, the presence of arsenic raises concerns for vulnerable groups. The study emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring of Black Sea ecosystems and implementing targeted measures to reduce pollution, ensuring the protection of marine biodiversity and human health.
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