Determination of differential heavy metal and trace element accumulation in liver, gills, intestine and muscle of sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) from the Danube River in Serbia by ICP-OES

Heavy Metal Concentrations in Water, Sediment, and Fish Species in Chashma Barrage, Indus River: A Comprehensive Health Risk Assessment

The increasing levels of heavy metals in aquatic environments, driven by human activities, pose a critical threat to ecosystems' overall health and sustainability. This study investigates the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd) in water, sediment, and three fish species (Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus mrigala) of different feeding zones within Chashma Barrage, located in the Mianwali district of Punjab, Pakistan, on the Indus River. A comprehensive analysis, including an assessment of associated human health risks, was conducted. Thirty samples from all three sites for each fish species, with an average body weight of 160 ± 32 g, were collected from Chashma Barrage. Water quality parameters indicated suitability for fish growth and health. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Results indicated elevated levels of Cd, Cr, and Cu in sediment and Pb and Cd in water, surpassing WHO standard limits. Among the fish species, bottom feeder (C. mrigala) exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher heavy metal levels in its tissues (gills, liver, and muscle) compared to column feeder (L. rohita) and surface feeder (C. catla). Liver tissues across all species showed higher heavy metal bioaccumulation, followed by gills. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed strong correlations among heavy metals in sediment, gills, muscle, and water in every fish species. However, the vector direction suggests that Cr was not correlated with other heavy metals in the system, indicating a different source. The human health risk analysis revealed lower EDI, THQ, and HI values (< 1) for the fish species, indicating no adverse health effects for the exposed population. The study emphasizes the bioaccumulation differences among fish species, underscoring the higher heavy metal concentrations in bottom feeder fish within Chashma Barrage.

Metal accumulation in fish species of a vast hydrographic network in the Moyen-Ogooué and Haut-Ogooué Provinces of Gabon: Implications for human health

With an obsolete livestock sector, Gabon relies on its huge hydrographic network rich in fish to supply its populations with animal proteins. This study aimed to conduct metal analyses in four fish species (Oreochromis niloticus, Clarias gariepinus, Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus, Polydactylus quadrifilis) frequently consumed by human populations in the Moyen-Ogooué and Haut-Ogooué Provinces of Gabon and infer the potential human health risks for those populations who rely on these freshwater produces as a source of proteins. Fish were sampled from Ezanga, Oguemoué, Onangué, Nguenè (Moyen-Ogooué) and Grand Poubara (Haut-Ogooué) Lakes during the high flow period (HF) and low flow period (LF) from 2021 to 2022, and analysed for seven heavy metals (HMs) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) techniques. Throughout the flow periods, and regardless of the lake and fish species, Fe was found to have the highest concentration, followed by Al > Mn > Hg > Pb> As> Cd. The relatively high concentration of Hg was recorded in the muscle tissues of C. gariepinus (6.65 mg. kg-1) sampled during the LF period at Grand Poubara. The concentrations of Hg found in the muscle of all fish species also exceeded the maximum acceptable limits set by the American Environmental Protection Agency. The concentrations of Fe in C. gariepinus (Grand Poubara, LF) and O. niloticus (Onangué, LF), and those of Al in O. niloticus (Nguenè, HF), P. quadrifilis (Onangué, HF) and C. nigrodigitatus (Oguemoué, LF) were amongst the highest concentrations ever reported on the African continent. Health risk assessments indicated a heightened risk of cancer for local populations consuming the fish species from all the lakes investigated. There is a need to implement an increased surveillance programme at national level in order to raise awareness and improve the management of fishery resources while preserving the environment and the health of local populations that rely upon these resources for their subsistence.

Distribution and bioaccumulation of trace elements in two Cyprinidae fish species in the Indus river, Pakistan, including the impact of hydraulic structure on macroinvertebrates' biodiversity

The concentration of trace elements (chromium, lead, zinc, copper, manganese, and iron) was determined in water, sediment and tissues of two Cyprinidae fish species - Labeo rohita and Tor putitora - collected from the eight sampling stations of Indus River in 2022 for four successive seasons (autumn, winter, spring, summer), and also study the present condition of macroinvertebrates after the construction of hydraulic structure. The obtained results of trace element concentrations in the Indus River were higher than the acceptable drinking water standards by WHO. The nitrate concentration ranges from 5.2 to 59.6 mg l-1, turbidity ranges from 3.00 to 63.9 NTU, total suspended solids and ammonium ions are below the detection limit (<0.05). In the liver, highest dry wt trace elements (μg/g) such as Cr (4.32), Pb (7.07), Zn (58.26), Cu (8.38), Mn (50.27), and Fe (83.9) for the Labeo rohita; and Tor Putitora has significantly greater accumulated concentration (Cr, Pb, Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe) in muscle and liver than did Labeo rohita species. Additionally, lower number of macroinvertebrates were recorded during the monsoonal season than pre-monsoon and post-monsoon. Local communities surrounded by polluted environments are more probably to consume more fish and expose them to higher concentrations of toxic trace elements (lead and copper). The findings also provide a basis for broader ecological management of the Indus River, which significantly influenced human beings and socioeconomic disasters, particularly in the local community.

Accumulation of Cd and Pb in sediments and Asian swamp eels (Monopterus albus) from downstream area of Cisadane River, Indonesia

This study examined the presence of two heavy metals (Cd and Pb) in the sediments and Asian swamp eels (Monopterus albus) in the downstream area of Cisadane River. The average concentrations of Cd and Pb in the sediments from all sampling locations were 0.594 ± 0.230 mg/kg and 34.677 ± 24.406 mg/kg, respectively. These concentrations were above the natural background concentration and the recommended value of interim sediment quality guidelines (ISQG), suggesting an enrichment process and potential ecological risk of studied metals to the ecosystem of Cisadane River. The increase in contamination within this region may be attributed to point sources such as landfill areas, as well as the industrial and agricultural land activities in surrounding area, and experienced an increasing level leading towards the estuary of Cisadane River. Meanwhile, the average concentrations of Cd and Pb in the eels from all sampling locations were 0.775 ± 0.528 μg/g and 28.940 ± 12.921 μg/g, respectively. This study also discovered that gill tissues contained higher levels of Cd and Pb than the digestive organ and flesh of Asian swamp eels. These concentrations were higher than Indonesian and international standards, suggesting a potential human health risk and therefore the needs of limitations in the consumption of the eels. Based on the human health risk assessment, the eels from the downstream of Cisadane River are still considered safe to be consumed as long as they comply with the specified maximum consumption limits.

Trophic transfer of heavy metals across four trophic levels based on muscle tissue residuals: a case study of Dachen Fishing Grounds, the East China Sea

In this study, we collected 56 species of fishery organisms (including fish, crustaceans, cephalopods, gastropods, and bivalves) from four seasonal survey cruises at the Dachen fishery grounds. We measured the concentrations of seven heavy metals (Cd, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cr, As, and Hg) in these fisheries organisms. We determined their trophic levels using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope techniques. We analyzed the characteristics of heavy metal transfer in the food chain. The results showed significant differences in heavy metal concentrations among different species. Among all biological groups, bivalves and gastropods exhibited higher levels of heavy metal enrichment than other biological groups, while fish had the lowest levels of heavy metal enrichment. Heavy metals exhibited different patterns of nutritional transfer in the food chain. While Hg showed a biomagnification phenomenon in the food chain, it was not significant. Cd, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cr, and As exhibited a trend of biodilution with increasing nutritional levels, except for As, which showed no significant correlation with δ15N.

The influence of climate changes on heavy metals accumulation in Alosa immaculata from the Danube River Basin

This research report provides a comprehensive overview of the historical trends in heavy metal concentrations in the Pontic shad (Alosa immaculata) populations from both the Danube River and the Black Sea, while also exploring the potential influence of global warming on metal accumulation. Through bibliometric modeling analysis, it reveals significant limitations in existing international research, particularly the lack of comprehensive data on the impact of hydroclimatic changes on heavy metal accumulation in Alosa immaculata. Recognizing the critical importance of studies on heavy metal bioaccumulation in Danube shad, this research underscores their significance in defining tolerance thresholds, quantifying the impact of toxic elements along the aquatic food chain, and enhancing the economic sustainability of ichthyofauna monitoring efforts. Furthermore, these studies contribute invaluable insights into the complex dynamics of aquatic ecosystems, offering essential decision-making support for optimizing commercial fishing management practices on the Danube and ensuring robust support systems for industrial fishing endeavors.

Essential and non-essential elements in marine silverside Odontesthes argentinensis from southwestern Atlantic coast: Tissues bioaccumulation, biomagnification and public health risk assessment

In order to assess the metal pollution in the southwestern Atlantic coast, levels of eleven metals: Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn and one metalloid: As in water and tissues of Odontesthes argentinensis from the Samborombón Bay (SB) and Partido de La Costa (PC) were examined. Additionally, bioconcentration, and bioaccumulation factors, estimated daily intake (EDI) for adults and children, and the hazard risk for fishermen and general populations were evaluated. Cadmium, Cu and Zn levels in the water samples exceeded the limits established by international guidelines for the protection of aquatic life in marine environments (CCME). The liver showed the highest concentrations of As, Cu, Fe, and Zn, while muscle showed the least levels of all elements examined. Bioaccumulation of Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn were observed in all tissues, while Ba and Sr bioaccumulated significantly in the gills. The fish δ15N values significantly varied between sites, however, no biodilution or biomagnification was observed. The Target Hazard Quotients (THQ) and the Carcinogenic Risk (CR) indices suggest that there is no human health risk to the fishermen and general populations from the O. argentinensis consumption. Furthermore, As (27%) and Cr (33%) concentrations in silversides from PC and SB, respectively, exceeded the levels recommended by local and international guidelines.

Essential and toxic elements in juvenile migratory commercial fish species in the Paraná River alluvial valley (South America): an approach for aquatic environmental monitoring

The Paraná River is the sixth largest in the world, and the lower section of the river is one of the largest and most productive floodplain wetlands in South America. The alluvial plain is an important habitat for nursery and feeding areas for commercial fish; however, it has been heavily anthropized due to industries, agricultural activities, and the growth and expansion of metropolitan areas. The aim of this study was to determine element accumulation (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn) in young-of-the-year fish muscle from a floodplain lagoon of the lower Paraná River (Argentina) during summer and winter seasons, in relation with abiotic matrices (water and sediment). Four commercial fish species were assessed: sábalo (Prochilodus lineatus), boga (Megaleporinus obtusidens), dorado (Salminus brasiliensis), and pirapitá (Brycon orbignyanus). The concentrations of eight elements were detected by quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. In water samples, Cd, Cr, Mn, Fe, and Zn levels were under the permissible limits for aquatic biota protection in both seasons, except for Pb (> 1 μg L-1) and Cu (> 2 μg L-1). In sediment, the average concentrations of all elements were under the limits set by national and international regulatory authorities. Differences in elemental concentrations between species and seasons were found. In general, the levels of elements in water were higher in summer than in winter, while in sediment, the lowest concentrations of elements were detected during the summer. The order of element concentration in fish muscle was Cd (0.01-0.04 μg g-1) < As (0.02-0.16 μg g-1) < Pb (0.03-0.23 μg g-1) < Mn (0.77-4.32 μg g-1) < Cu (1.01-4.07 μg g-1) < Cr (1.09-4.30 μg g-1) < Zn (15.8-31.7 μg g -1) < Fe (12.6-49.7 μg g-1). The accumulation assessment showed that the four fish species significantly accumulate Cr, Cu and Zn, and As and Zn from water and sediment, respectively. The correlation analysis showed a relationship between fish size and As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn concentrations. Similarly, the highest values of element concentrations in muscle were detected during the summer when the fishes are early juveniles. The level of As, Cd, and Pb detected in B. orbignyanus, M. obtusidens, and P. lineatus juveniles suggested that these species had the potential to be used as biomarkers for assessing accumulation of toxic elements in the environment. Also, this study reveals that the accumulation patterns differ between size and fish species, which should be a considered insight at the moment of selecting a bioindicator to monitor pollution in the ecosystem.

Assessment of trace metal bioaccumulation on the shells of edible gastropod Chicoreus ramosus and Hemifusus pugilinus

The current study aimed to examine how some gastropods absorbed trace metals (Chicoreus ramosus and Hemifusus pugilinus). The existence of 17 elements, including aluminium, arsenic, boron, calcium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, potassium, lithium, manganese, sodium, nickel, phosphorus, lead, and zinc (Al, As, B, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, and Zn), was confirmed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) analysis of trace metals. According to the ICP-MS results, C. ramosus (Al: 1.97 ± 0.2 µg/g, Fe: 1.93 ± 0.2 µg/g, and As: 1.52 ± 0.4 µg/g) and H. pugilinus (Al: 1.85 ± 0.7 µg/g, Fe: 1.68 ± 0.6 µg/g, and As: 1.37 ± 0.6 µg/g) both had significant amounts of aluminium, iron, and arsenic, respectively. Zinc concentrations of 0.58 to 0.7 μg/g (C. ramosus) and 0.67 to 0.2 μg/g were recorded (H. pugilinus). The elemental composition of the surface of the sample was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) micrographs, which also showed the degree of trace metal absorption in the chosen gastropod species.

Pollution impact on metal and biomarker responses in intestinal cytosol of freshwater fish

In the present study, essential and nonessential metal content and biomarker responses were investigated in the intestine of fish collected from the areas polluted by mining. Our objective was to determine metal and biomarker levels in tissue responsible for dietary intake, which is rarely studied in water pollution research. The study was conducted in the Bregalnica River, reference location, and in the Zletovska and Kriva Rivers (the Republic of North Macedonia), which are directly influenced by the active mines Zletovo and Toranica, respectively. Biological responses were analyzed in Vardar chub (Squalius vardarensis; Karaman, 1928), using for the first time intestinal cytosol as a potentially toxic cell fraction, since metal sensitivity is mostly associated with cytosol. Cytosolic metal levels were higher in fish under the influence of mining (Tl, Li, Cs, Mo, Sr, Cd, Rb, and Cu in the Zletovska River and Cr, Pb, and Se in the Kriva River compared to the Bregalnica River in both seasons). The same trend was evident for total proteins, biomarkers of general stress, and metallothioneins, biomarkers of metal exposure, indicating cellular disturbances in the intestine, the primary site of dietary metal uptake. The association of cytosolic Cu and Cd at all locations pointed to similar pathways and homeostasis of these metallothionein-binding metals. Comparison with other indicator tissues showed that metal concentrations were higher in the intestine of fish from mining-affected areas than in the liver and gills. In general, these results indicated the importance of dietary metal pathways, and cytosolic metal fraction in assessing pollution impacts in freshwater ecosystems.

Biological effects of ionizing radiation on aquatic biota - A critical review

Ionizing radiation from radionuclides impacts marine aquatic biota and the scope of investigation must be wider than just invertebrates. We intend to detail and illustrate numerous biological effects that occur in both aquatic vertebrates and invertebrates, at various dose rates from all three kinds of ionizing radiation. The characteristics of radiation sources and dosages that would most effectively generate the intended effects in the irradiated organism were assessed once the biological differentiation between vertebrates and invertebrates was determined through multiple lines of evidence. We contend that invertebrates are still more radiosensitive than vertebrates, due to their small genome size, rapid reproduction rates and lifestyle, which help them to compensate for the effects of radiation induced declines in fecundity, life span and individual health. We also identified various research gaps in this field and suggest future directions to be investigated to remedy the lack of data available in this area.

Modeling of Cadmium Bioaccumulation Dynamics in Channa punctata (Bloch, 1793) of Dankuni Wetland Ecosystem and Assessment of Risk to Human Health

Contamination of freshwater wetlands with toxic heavy metals and metalloids is a significant public health concern. Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most common heavy metals affecting water bodies and fish. In the Dankuni wetland (DW) ecosystem in India, variations in Cd concentration from the aquatic system to different fish tissues have been investigated. Channa punctata is an easily accessible fish with a high nutritional value, and offers a good economic return for the fishermen of West Bengal. A dynamic model was constructed considering the importance of the Cd concentration in the water of the wetland system and different fish tissues. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the valuable contribution of different parameters that determine the dynamics of Cd concentration in a wetland aquatic environment. The observed data is used to verify the model simulation performance. To predict the effects of Cd on humans, a survey of fish consumers was conducted around DW. Individuals living near DW, on low income (<5,000 INR) and over the age of fifty, were at high risk of Cd contamination. Their average daily intake rate was quite high (2.48×10^-5 mg kg^-1 day^-1) and the hazard quotient calculated for these individuals was also high (0.024). People over age of 50 years had renal, cardiovascular, and osteological diseases with disease percentages of 56%, 46%, and 45%, respectively. Data on Cd-related health problems were collected from Cd-associated and non-Cd-associated individuals residing in the periphery of DW. The system-sensitive parameter was the rate of Cd entry into the water system (C Inp rt). If the Cd level is checked at the entrance of the reservoir by management policy; the risk of Cd contamination to human may be minimized in this area.

Comparative assessment of human health risk associated with heavy metals bioaccumulation in fish species (Barbus grypus and Tenualosa ilisha) from the Karoon River, Iran: Elucidating the role of habitat and feeding habits

Concentrations of Cd, Ni, and Pb were measured in the liver and muscle tissues of benthic omnivorous (Barbus grypus) and pelagic herbivorous (Tenualosa ilisha) fish collected from two sampling sites along the Karoon River, Khuzestan Province, southwest of Iran. Potential human health risks were evaluated by measuring the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and target cancer risk (TR). The results highlight the important role of habitat and feeding habits in the uptake of HMs by the two species. The EDI for all HMs exceeded the oral reference doses (RfDo) provided by the USEPA, indicating the two fish species are not entirely safe for human consumption. The THQ values were within the permissible limit (< 1), while HI values (> 1) showed there was non-carcinogenic risk for consumers. The TR values for Pb were within the acceptable range (1.00E-06-1.00E-04) for both species.

Bioaccumulation of potentially toxic elements in fish species of Serbia: a review

In the first review of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in fish in water ecosystems in Serbia, 40 studies related to fish contamination with PTEs were identified and evaluated. Studies of concentrations of PTEs in fish tissues covered 28 ecosystems (108 localities). The main studied river ecosystems were the Danube and the Sava, and the Međuvršje reservoir was the most studied standing water ecosystem. Among the most studied fish species were catfish (Silurus glanis), followed by pikeperch (Sander lucioperca), bream (Abramis brama), carp (Cyprinus carpio), and barbel (Barbus barbus). There were 48 "hot spot" sampling sites where concentrations of Hg, Cd, Pb, As, Ni, Fe, and/or Cu exceeded the maximum permitted concentrations (MPCs) prescribed by legislation. Elevated concentrations of these elements were the most detected in fish species sampled in the Danube, Sava, and rivers belonging to the Velika Morava basin. Hg concentrations were the most common above MPC in muscle tissue of species sampled from the Danube and Sava rivers. On the other hand, we can single out the species Vimba bream (Vimba vimba), sampled in Danube River in Zemun near Belgrade, as the safest species for human consumption due to the largest number of elements in fish meat below detection limits. Finally, having in mind all the criteria prescribed by U.S. EPA (2000), we identify and recommend two predatory fish species pikeperch (S. lucioperca) and catfish (S. glanis), and bottom-feeding fish species barbel (B. barbus) as bioindicators of PTEs contamination in Serbian waters.

Health risk assessment and differential distribution of Arsenic and metals in organs of Urophycis brasiliensis a commercial fish from Southwestern Atlantic coast

The concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn were analyzed in muscle, gills, and liver of Urophycis brasiliensis from two Southwestern Atlantic catch areas (Brazil and Argentina). Additionally, the health risk of general and fishermen populations through fish consumption was estimated. The gills showed the highest concentrations of most of the elements, followed by the liver. With the exception of As, the muscle was the organ with the lowest concentrations of most elements. Levels of arsenic in muscle of U. brasiliensis were exceeded the maximum permissible levels for human consumption recommended by local and international guidelines. The target hazard quotients (THQs) and the carcinogenic risk (CR) showed no risk for individual and all elements. These results highlight the importance of arsenic speciation in U. brasiliensis muscle in order to generate more reliable risk estimates.

Potentially Harmful Elements Accumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Edible Fish Tissues Caught from the Phander Valley, Northern Pakistan

This study investigated the concentrations of potentially harmful elements (PHE) in edible tissues of trout fish (Salmo trutta) in the Phander Valley, Northern Pakistan. For this purpose, fish were sampled from the Phander Valley (Gilgit River and Phander Lake). PHE concentrations in edible fish tissues (muscle, fins, and skin) were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS, AAnalyst 700, Perkin Elmer, USA). Among PHE, zinc (Zn) showed the highest concentration of 1097 μg/kg in the skin, followed by manganese (Mn) of 241 μg/kg in the muscle, and the lowest of 3.78 μg/kg for cadmium (Cd) in fins. The concentration of PHE in fish tissues of the study area was observed within the threshold limits set by the food and agriculture organization (FAO). PHE concentration of fish tissues was used for the calculation of chronic risk assessment using the chronic daily intake (CDI) and hazard quotient (HQ) indices. The highest CDI values were observed for Zn through fish tissue consumption in juveniles, followed by Mn, and the lowest for Cd in adults. The HQ values were observed less than 1 for adults through PHE consumption in fish tissue; however, that of juvenile surpassed the threshold limit through Cd consumption in all studied tissues and that of Pb in the muscle and skins only. Higher HQ values than the threshold limit could pose a potential chronic risk to the exposed community. Spearman's non-parametric correlation showed a varying degree of correlation among PHE in fish tissues and canonical discriminant analyses were used to differentiate the tissues based on PHE accumulation tendencies.

Trace element accumulation in different edible fish species from the Bolivian Amazon and the risk for human consumption

Artisanal mining and erosion of metalbearing soils can contaminate aquatic ecosystems and affect the health of riparian human populations, through metal bio-accumulation processes and fish consumption. Concentrations of eight trace metals (Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Hg, Ni, Zn) and a metalloid (As) were measured in the muscle tissue of different edible fish species collected from markets of two cities along the Beni River banks, in the Bolivian Amazon. Relationships between the size of fish belonging to different trophic levels (carnivores, omnivores, detritivores and herbivorous) from four different fishing zones were analyzed. The most relevant results corresponded to the detritivore group, whose members exhibited significant positive correlations between the fish size and the concentration of three metals (cadmium, cobalt and nickel). Furthermore, a 3 × 3 scenario-risk analysis was performed to assess local risk for human health. This was done by relating three different scenarios of local fish consumption collected from literature (maximum, average and minimum) and three different levels of trace element concentrations (95th, 50th and 5th percentile) derived from the present study and the Minimal Risk Levels suggested by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Results of these calculations determined the amount of fish muscle per contaminant that could be consumed per day without risking human's health. Finally, Target Hazard Quotients were calculated for each trace element, aiming to indicate the potential exposure to each one and the concentration at which no adverse effects are expected. The obtained results made clear that mercury is the only trace element that represents an important health risk to humans within the studied region, considering most of the combinations in the 3 × 3 analysis. Chronic mercury intoxication could occur when consumption of fish in Riberalta or Rurrenabaque exceeded 83 g/day in females and 110 g/day in males.

Efficiency of metal bioaccumulation in acanthocephalans, gammarids and fish in relation to metal exposure conditions in a karst freshwater ecosystem

BACKGROUND

Each of the bioindicator organisms studied, such as fish, crustaceans, or parasites, have certain advantages when used in the assessment of metal exposure. In this research, special attention was given to intestinal parasites, acanthocephalans, as effective metal bioaccumulators with the main aim of estimating and comparing metal accumulation in all organisms involved in their life cycle and testing their usage as sensitive bioindicators in metal exposure assessments.

METHODS

Efficiency of metal accumulation was evaluated in fish intestine (brown trout, Salmo trutta Linnaeus, 1758), gammarids (Gammarus balcanicus Schäferna, 1922) and acanthocephalans (Dentitruncus truttae Sinzar, 1955) in the Krka River at site threatened by industrial and municipal wastewaters (Town of Knin) and reference site (Krka River source) in two seasons (autumn and spring). All samples were digested in a drying oven at 85 °C for 3.5 h using nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide. Samples were diluted with ultrapure water and total concentrations of 15 trace and macroelements were measured by HR ICP-MS.

RESULTS

Higher concentrations of Co, Cu, Fe and Mn at the contaminated than at the reference site were recorded in all bioindicator organisms. Additionally, Se, Sr, Zn, Ca, K and Mg were elevated at the contaminated site in acanthocephalans, Cs, Pb, Zn and K in gammarids and Se, Sr and Ca in fish intestine. Opposite, concentrations of Cd, Cs and Rb were mostly higher in organisms from the reference than wastewater impacted site, which did not coincide with waterborne metal exposure but indicated importance of assessing dietary metal uptake.

CONCLUSION

More effective metal accumulation was confirmed in acanthocephalans than fish and gammarids, especially of Cd and Pb in respect to gammarids, and of Cd, Cu, Pb, Mn and Sr in respect to fish intestine. Thus, both fish intestine and whole body of D. truttae were confirmed as sensitive indicators of low environmental metal exposure, reflecting site-specific differences, which proved their potential to be used in monitoring programmes and metal exposure assessment in real environmental situations.

Linking trophic ecology with element concentrations in a coastal fish community of the Bijagós Archipelago, West Africa

We report the concentration of 13 elements in the muscle and liver of 17 coastal fish species of the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, and link element concentrations to trophic ecology as assessed by carbon (δ¹³C) and nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) stable isotopes. We found higher concentrations of Hg, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Se and As in liver as compared to muscle tissue, and the opposite pattern for Sr and Ca in all fish species. The concentration of Hg and Se in muscle samples increased significantly with δ¹⁵N, suggesting a biomagnification of these elements in this food chain. The concentrations of Ca and Sr, Fe and Cr, Ca and Mn, and Fe and Mn were positively correlated to each other in more than 50% of the studied species. Fish constitute the most important animal protein source for people in Guinea-Bissau, and thus assessing the concentrations of potentially toxic elements is relevant for human health.

The Occurrence of Lead in Animal Source Foods in Iran in the 2010s Decade: A Systematic Review

Lead is a toxic, non-biodegradable, and accumulative heavy metal released into the environment by natural and anthropogenic activities. Despite health concerns due to the consumption of lead-contaminated foods, no systematic and comprehensive review studies have been published about the lead occurrence in animal source foods in Iran. The present study aimed to review the papers investigating the Pb contamination in animal-based food groups (including meat, fish, milk and dairy products, egg and honey) in Iran. A comprehensive search was performed with selected keywords in databases of Scopus, Web of science, and Magiran to find articles that had been published from January 2010 to December 2019. Of 371 identified articles on Pb contaminations in foods, 60 articles were selected using PRISMA. The lead concentrations were higher than the maximum recommended limits in 3 of 9 studies on meat and meat products, 12 of 26 studies on fish and canned fish, and 5 of 18 studies on milk and dairy products. However, the Pb contamination observed in studies on honey and egg was not comparable due to the lack of national and international standards. These results represent the importance of environmental monitoring and assessment for reducing exposure of animals to Pb, resulting in an improvement of food safety.

Application of Calcified Structures in Fish as Indicators of Metal Exposure in Freshwater Ecosystems

Although there are common and well-established bioindicator organisms and tissues, there is still a need for reliable and sensitive bioindicators in aquatic environments. In the present pilot study, calcified structures in fish were applied as indicators of metal exposure in combination with commonly used fish soft tissues and intestinal parasites, therefore comprising short- and long-term indicators. Patterns of metal accumulation and distribution in soft (muscle, liver) and hard (scales, otoliths) tissues of brown trout (Salmo trutta Linnaeus, 1758) and their intestinal parasites, acanthocephalans (Dentitruncus truttae Sinzar, 1955), from the Krka River influenced by industrial and municipal wastewaters were estimated and compared. Most elements had higher levels in acanthocephalans, scales and liver than muscle and otoliths, possibly reflecting differences in metal uptake routes, tissue function and metabolic activity. Despite the recorded differences in metal contents, all applied bioindicators reflected environmental conditions in a similar way, indicating higher levels of most elements in fish from the contaminated rather than from the reference site. Acanthocephalans were confirmed as sensitive bioindicators due to effective metal accumulation capacity, while the combination of soft and hard tissues provided extended temporal information on metal exposure. Wastewater impact was evidenced as moderate metal pollution by all applied indicators and pointed to present but also long-term disturbances in the Krka River and the importance of continuous monitoring and protective actions.

Metal accumulations in aquatic organisms and health risks in an acid mine-affected site in South China

Metal contamination from base metal sulphide mines is a major environmental challenge that poses many ecological and health risks. We examined the metal concentrations in the Dabaoshan mine in South China in water, sediments, and aquatic organisms and their specific characteristics (i.e. size, body tissue, species, and habitat) along the Hengshi and Wengjiang River courses to assess acid mine drainage remediation efforts. Metal concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, thallium, and zinc were examined in tissues (i.e. gills, intestines, and muscles) of 17 freshwater species of fish, shrimps, and crabs. Metals in tissues followed the trend: intestines > gills > muscles; nearly all intestine samples exceeded the safe limits of metals analysed in this study. There is a positive correlation between distance from the mine and metal concentrations related to the flow of surface water and the habitat of aquatic organisms. The concentrations of arsenic, copper, and zinc were the highest in aquatic organisms, and the distribution was influenced by physical (distance from mine, currents, and seasonality), chemical (pH and competing ions), and biological (species, habitat, and predator-prey relation) factors. Large demersal fish and benthic fauna had higher concentrations of metals. Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of metals, as well as the high metal pollution index and target hazard quotient (arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, thallium, and zinc), occurred in bottom feeders (C. aumtus, X. argentea) and fish belonging to higher trophic levels (P. fulvidraco, O. mossambicus). Lead and cadmium indicated the highest level of biomagnification from prey to predator. Health risks exist from the dietary intake of common aquatic species such as tilapia and carp besides crustaceans due to high arsenic, cadmium, lead, and thallium levels. Further reduction of metals is necessary to improve the effects of acid mine drainage in the catchment.

Histopathological effects of short-term aqueous exposure to environmentally relevant concentration of lead (Pb) in shorthorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius) under laboratory conditions

Shorthorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius) has been used as a sentinel species for environmental monitoring, including heavy metal contamination from mining activities. Former lead-zinc (Pb-Zn) mines in Greenland resulted in elevated concentrations of metals, especially Pb, in marine biota. However, the potential accumulation of Pb and effects of the presence of Pb residues in fish on health of sculpins observed in the field have not been validated in laboratory experiments. Therefore, our aim was to validate field observation of shorthorn sculpin via controlled laboratory exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of dissolved Pb. We evaluated the effects of a short-term (28 days) exposure to Pb on Pb residues in sculpin blood, gills, liver, and muscle and the morphology of gills and liver. The highest level of Pb was found in the gills, followed by muscle and then liver. Pb levels in liver, gills, and blood of Pb-exposed sculpins were significantly higher than those in control fish, showing that blood is suitable for assessing Pb accumulation and exposure in sculpins. Histopathological investigations showed that the severity score of liver necrosis and gill telangiectasia of Pb-exposed sculpins was significantly greater than in control fish. The number of mucous cells in gills was positively correlated with Pb concentrations in organs. Overall, the results validated field observation for the effects of Pb on wild sculpin and contributed to the improved use of the shorthorn sculpin as sentinel species for monitoring contamination from Pb mines in the Arctic.

Assessment of heavy metals in wild and farmed tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) on Lake Kariba, Zambia: implications for human and fish health

The aim of this study was to assess the levels of heavy metals in both wild and farmed tilapia on Lake Kariba in Zambia and to evaluate the impact of intensive fish farming on wild tilapia. Three sites for wild fish (2 distant and 1 proximal to fish farms) and two fish farms were selected. One hundred fish (52 from distant sites; 20 near fish farms; 28 farmed fish) were sampled and muscle tissues excised for analysis of heavy metals (Mg, Fe, Zn, Al, Cu, Se, Co, Mo, As, Cr, V, Ni, Hg, Pb, Li, Cd, and Ag) by acid (HNO₃) digestion and ICP-MS. All metals were found to be below the maximum limits (MLs) set by WHO/EU. Essential metals were higher in farmed tilapia, whereas non-essential metals were higher in wild tilapia. Significantly higher levels of essential metals were found in wild fish near the fish farms than those distant from the farms. Estimated weekly intake (EWI) for all metals were less than the provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTWI). Target hazard quotients (THQ) and Hazard Indices (HI) were <1, indicating no health risks from a lifetime of fish consumption. Selenium Health Benefit Value (HBV_Se) was positive for all locations, indicating protective effects of selenium against mercury in fish. Total cancer risk (CR) due to As, Cr, Cd, Ni and Pb was less than 1 × 10^-4, indicating less than 1 in 10,000 carcinogenic risk from a lifetime consumption of tilapia from Lake Kariba. Hg levels (0.021 mg/kg) in wild tilapia at site 1 were higher than the Environmental quality standard (EQS = 0.020 mg/kg) set by EU, indicating possible risk of adverse effects to fish. Except for Hg, levels of metals in fish were safe for human consumption and had no adverse effects on fish.

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish species of Iran: a review

Accumulation of heavy metals (HMs) in fish tissues is an important factor in monitoring the health and safety of aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, fish are important parts of aquatic food chains and play a significant role in human health. Considering the significant role of fish in the diet of humans and their ability to transfer and biomagnify HMs, it is necessary to determine and study these contaminants in fish tissues, especially in the edible parts of the fish. In addition to the other ecological and economic services of aquatic ecosystems, water bodies, especially the Persian Gulf in the south and the Caspian Sea in the north of Iran, are the main sources of seafood for people in nearby areas, as well as people living farther away who have gained access to seafood due to the extensive trade of aquatic organisms. This study provides an overview of the health conditions of the aquatic ecosystems in Iran by monitoring HM bioaccumulation in fish species. For this purpose, we reviewed, summarized, and evaluated papers published on HM concentrations in fish species from different aquatic ecosystems, including the Persian Gulf, the Caspian Sea, wetlands, rivers, qanats, water reservoirs, lakes, and dams, with emphasis on species habitats, feeding habits, and target organs in accumulation of HMs. Generally, the highest concentrations of HMs were observed in fishes collected from the Persian Gulf, followed by species from the Caspian Sea. Species inhabiting the lower zone of the water column and carnivorous and/or omnivorous species showed the highest levels of HMs. Moreover, liver was the main accumulator organ for HMs.

Calcineurin Immune Signaling in Response to Zinc Challenge in the Naked Carp Gymnocypris eckloni

Zinc pollution impairs neural processes and protein function and also effects calcium-related transcriptional regulation and enzyme activity. In this study, we investigated pathways that potentially respond to calcium signaling under Zn²⁺ stress. Specifically we measured relative expressions of GeCNAα, GeCNB, GeMT, GeTNF-α, GeIL-1β, and GeHsp90 in gills, livers, and kidneys of the indicator species Gymnocypris eckloni and found wide variation in their expression between tissues during the course of Zn²⁺ exposure. Notably, GeCNAα, GeCNB, GeTNF-α, GeIL-1β, and GeMT were rapidly and strongly up-regulated in gills; GeIL-1β and GeHsp90 transcription was quickly induced in kidneys; and GeCNB, GeTNF-α, GeIL-1β, and GeHsp90 were most rapidly up-regulated in livers. GeCNAα and GeMT showed a contrasting late transcriptional up-regulation. These results suggest independent branches for chelation and immune responses during self-protection against Zn²⁺ toxicity, and the immune response appears to be faster than metal chelation.

Preliminary investigation of lower Danube pollution caused by potentially toxic metals

The current study aims to assess the pollution status of the European river-sea system lower Danube River-Danube Delta-North West Black Sea, through an integrated analysis of metal concentrations in water, sediments and fish community. The Danube flows through numerous industrial cities and receives a significant amount of pollutants due to the reception of urban and industrial emissaries, as well as agricultural land runoff. Samples of water, sediments and fish (10 species) were collected from 7 representative sites along Danube River, Danube Delta and Black Sea shore. For the analysed fish species, potentially toxic and essential elements (Pb, Cd, As, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mg, Ca, Na, K) from muscle and liver samples were measured and discussed. Measurement of elements and other environmental quality parameters were determined for water and sediments. The Black Sea area, represented by S6 and S7, received sediments from Danube with the lowest concentrations of Cd (0.05 ± 0.01 μg g^-1, respectively 0.01 ± 0.001 μg g^-1), Pb (3 ± 0.03 μg g^-1, respectively 2 ± 0.03 μg g^-1), As (2 ± 0.02 μg g^-1, respectively 1.4 ± 0.3 μg g^-1), Ni (8.9 ± 0.1 μg g^-1, respectively 5.2 ± 0.2 μg g^-1), Cr (8 ± 0.7 μg g^-1, respectively 5 ± 0.2 μg g^-1), Cu (3 ± 0.1 μg g^-1, respectively 2 ± 0.04 μg g^-1), Fe(6 ± 0.3 μg g^-1, respectively 3 ± 0.1 μg g^-1) and Zn (0.03 ± 0.003 μg g^-1, respectively 0.017 ± 0.001 μg g^-1). These results suggest that the Danube Delta system plays an important role in filtering the pollutants. Based on the biota and water analysis, there was no correlation observed between Cd, respectively Pb concentration in the environment and fish body (Person Coef. = -0.02 in muscle tissue and -0.01 in liver tissue, respectively Pearson Coeff. = -0.06 in muscle tissue and 0.1 in liver tissue). Cadmium remained an active element in the pollution of the Danube area (S1 and S2), with high concentration in the water matrix (0.14 ± 0.02 μg L^-1, respectively 0.05 ± 0.01 μg L^-1) and fish muscle (0.15 ± 0.03 μg g^-1f.w. in C. carpio - S2). This fact was confirmed by several other studies.

Combined effects of moderate hypoxia, pesticides and PCBs upon crucian carp fish, Carassius carassius, from a freshwater lake- in situ ecophysiological approach

Nowadays, depletion of oxygen or hypoxia has become a real concerning problem worldwide in freshwater, marine, and estuarine ecosystems and very often co-occurs with xenobiotics. Even though the acute and severe hypoxia is heavily studied in environment and laboratory studies, the in situ combined effects of these stressors on freshwater lake organisms are poorly understood. The current study sought to understand how the combined effects of moderate hypoxia, pesticides and PCBs affect the biochemistry, physiology and organ morphology of Carassius carassius, residing in the Lake Seferani, Dumrea region (Elbasan, Albania), a natural karst freshwater system declared as Nature Monument situated in central Albania. Crucian carp is used as a model organism, because of its residency and ecological relevance to the Lake, as well as for its amenability for the environmental toxicology studies. For this purpose, blood, liver and kidney samples of fish were processed for hematological, biochemical and histopathological analysis. We found a significant increase of blood glucose (GLU), cortisol levels, hematocrit (PCV) and hemoglobin (Hb) which clearly indicate the presence of stress in fish. Based on the histopathological evaluation and organ index results, liver and kidney organs displayed moderate-to-heavy histological-architecture changes. Our results provide a strong evidence that both, hypoxia and the presence of pesticides and PCB congeners found in Seferani Lake, put a heavy load on C. carassius energy metabolism and endocrine system, leading to an elevation of the biochemical and physiological parameters (hemoglobin level, hematocrit, glucose and cortisol), as well as the histopathological alterations. Additionally, in the presence of moderate hypoxia, the toxic effects of pesticides and PCBs on C. carassius are exacerbated. Further studies are needed to evaluate possible effects of pesticide and PCBs toxicity in human health, since crucian carp has an economic value for the population of the zone and it is used often as food sustenance. Elucidation of these kinds of responses can better improve our understanding of response of highly tolerant species, like Carassius carassius, to multiple stressors interactions, helping us to better predict and manage the consequences of the exposure of the freshwater biota to complex stressors in an environment that changes rapidly.

Levels of metals in fish tissues of Liza haematocheila and Lateolabrax japonicus from the Yellow River Delta of China and risk assessment for consumers

The Yellow River Delta (YRD) is an important spawning and nursery area for numerous fishes. The concentrations of Fe, Al, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cr, Cu, Co, Pb and Cd in muscle, liver, gills and skin of two broadly distributed commercial fish in the YRD were analyzed. The results demonstrated that liver and gills displayed higher accumulation ability of metals than other tissues, while muscle always accumulated the lowest concentrations of metals. Generally, significant opposite relationships (p < 0.05) were observed between fish size and metals in fish tissues especially in muscles of both fish species which may be explained by the lower feeding rate, stronger detoxification and elimination mechanisms in the bigger individuals. All metals in muscles were well below the proposed toxic limit. Besides, the toxic effects were not expected to occur for the consumption of muscles of studied fish according to the results of human health risk assessment.

Accumulation of trace elements in muscle, gill and liver of fish species (Capoeta umbla and Luciobarbus mystaceus) in the Tigris River (Turkey), and health risk assessment

Two fish species (Capoeta umbla and Luciobarbus mystaceus) were collected from the Tigris River (Turkey), and tissues (gill, muscle and liver) of fish samples were analyzed for Cd, As, Mn, Cr, Cu, Co and Ni using the inductively coupled plasma-tandem mass spectrometry. Significant differences were present between fish species in regard to trace element (TE) concentrations in muscle for Mn, in liver for Cu, Cd and Mn, and in gill for As, Co, Cu and Cd (p < 0.05). Liver had the highest total TE concentration, followed by gill and muscle. Significant negative correlations were recorded between fish size (length and weight) and TE concentrations in the tissues. Both fish species showed no gender differences in TE accumulation in muscle, gill and liver (p > 0.05). The estimated daily intakes for all TEs were much lower than the tolerable daily intakes. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and total THQ values of all TEs did not exceed 1, which means that non-carcinogenic health effects are not expected for the consumers. Arsenic carcinogenic risk values were within acceptable range. Mean Cd concentrations in muscle tissue of both fish species exceeded the maximum permissible limit set by the European Commission Regulation, while mean concentrations of As, Cr and Cu were below the legislated limits.

Heavy Metals Bioaccumulation and Health Risks with Associated Histopathological Changes in Clarias gariepinus from the Kado Fish Market, Abuja, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Aquatic pollution by heavy metals has become a global problem and is of great concern due to the detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems and possible human uptake.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to evaluate tissue bioaccumulations of heavy metals and possible human health risks in addition to associated cellular damages in fish for sale in a fish market in Abuja, Nigeria.

METHODS

Clarias gariepinus sold at the Kado Fish Market in Abuja, Nigeria, in March-April 2017 and March-April 2018 were randomly purchased and sampled. The heavy metal contents of the sampled fish were assayed and used to assess the extent of potential health risks to human consumers. The extent of histopathological changes associated with the bioaccumulations in the sampled fish were also evaluated according to standard procedures.

RESULTS

Levels of most heavy metals were above permissible limits, except for lower levels of zinc (Zn) in liver and muscle and higher levels of lead (Pb) in muscle in the sampled fish. Similarly, significant (p<0.05) liver bioaccumulation occurred for Zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), and copper (Cu) compared to their levels in muscle. The total hazard index (non-cancer risk across all metals) was 0.0415, which is very low and acceptable. The cancer risks ranged between the acceptable values of 1.98 × 10^-5 - 3.71 × 10^-6. Associated histopathological changes, which occurred in the sampled fish, differed between the various assayed tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the heavy metals were significantly bioaccumulated (p<0.05) and were above the permissible levels, particularly in liver samples. The levels of muscle heavy metal bioaccumulation in the sampled fish posed no apparent cancer or non-cancer health risks to human consumers. However, further efforts are needed to minimize heavy metal aquatic environmental pollution to safeguard the health of aquatic flora and fauna and human consumers because of the tendency of these pollutants to persist and bioaccumulate to toxic levels over time.

COMPETING INTERESTS

The authors declare no competing financial interests.

Copper, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Cobalt, Arsenic, Cadmium, Chrome, and Lead Concentrations in Liver and Muscle in Iranian Camel (Camelus dromedarius)

Camel meat as healthy food has received much attention for human consumption. In the present study, liver and muscle from 60 camels (Camelus dromedarius) including 26 males and 34 females were sampled to determine the concentration of As, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Co using the inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Based on the obtained results, the average content of essential or toxic elements in the liver and muscle was as follows: 111.2 ± 26.51, 38.57 ± 7.97 (Zn), 3.28 ± 0.79, 2.12 ± 0.49 (Cu), 76.98 ± 14.20, 59.34 ± 11.81 (Fe), 0.87 ± 0.22, 0.48 ± 0.12 (Mn), 0.52 ± 0.27, 0.03 ± 0.01 (Co), ND ± 0.008, 0.012 ± 0.008 (Cd), 7.06 ± 1.58, 3.90 ± 0.86 (Cr), 0.85 ± 0.043, and 0.18 ± 0.02, and 1.12 ± 0.21 (As) mg kg^-1. Pb concentration was lower than the detection limit (ND). The results showed that the liver concentrations of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, Co, and Cr were significantly higher than those in the muscle. The association of sex, age, region, and sampling period, with a concentration of these elements, revealed that concentration of zinc in the liver and cobalt in the muscle were significantly higher in the male. Also, significantly higher cobalt and zinc concentrations in muscle were seen in the first 6 months of the year. Age-related differences in muscle concentrations were observed for cobalt. The concentration of trace elements and heavy metals in the liver and muscle samples were not correlated. Comparison of heavy metals concentration in both tissues with European Commission regulation showed that except Cd, the other heavy metals had a higher level than the EU standard. The results of this study showed that camel meat can be contaminated with heavy metals, but more investigations are needed.

Biomonitoring of Heavy Metals in River Ganga Water, Sediments, Plant, and Fishes of Different Trophic Levels

In this study, the pattern of metals concentration in water, sediment, plants, and three edible fish species (Channa striata, Labeo rohita, and Catla catla) of different trophic levels, captured from Jajmau (Kanpur), an important fishery area of river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, India was examined. The heavy metals, Ni, Pb, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, and Co, were estimated in the liver, kidney, muscles, and gill tissues of abovesaid species of fish. The highest metal concentration was reported in the bottom feeder fish as compared with the column and surface feeders. The result obtained after analysis of water sample reflects the order of occurrence of heavy metals as Fe > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd > Zn > Cu > Co. Sediments analysis indicates high concentration of Fe and Cr, making the entire environment from top to bottom, stressful. Target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI) of the three species suggest a potential risk to the health of consumers, the humans. Thus, it is inevitable that the river Ganga should be closely monitored to safeguard human health. Graphical Abstract.

Mercury and methylmercury levels in soils associated with coal-fired power plants in central-northern Chile

Mercury pollution is a worldwide problem, and is associated with a number of natural and anthropogenic processes. The present work, conducted in Chile, a country that has traditionally depended heavily on fossil fuels for power generation, examines total mercury (THg) and monomethylmercury (MMHg) concentrations in soils across different sites exposed to coal fired power plant emissions. Samples from four selected (Renca, Laguna Verde, Las Ventanas, Huasco) and 1 control (Quintay) sites were analyzed using cold vapour and fluorescence spectroscopy (CV-AFS) for THg determination and chromatographic separation with atomic fluorescence detection (DI-GC-AFS) was followed for speciation analysis. From the sites analyzed, Renca and Las Ventanas showed high concentrations of total mercury, exhibiting ranges between 135 - 568 and 94-464 ng g^-1 respectively, while Laguna Verde and Huasco exhibited lower values ranged 5-27 and 9-44 ng g^-1 respectively. Conversely, analysis of MMHg concentrations showed that only Renca site possessed high values, ranging between 0.1 and 3.0 ng g^-1, resulting in this site being considered contaminated. Conversely, other sites showed minimal values comparable to the control site (0.024 ± 0.003 ng g^-1) in terms of MMHg concentrations. An analysis of the differences between MMHg and THg concentrations in contaminated sites, suggests an overall absence of methylation in soils of Las Ventanas, probably related to the very high levels of soil heavy metals, especially copper. Moreover, the influence of the composition and physicochemical properties of the different soils on the mobility of the species was assessed. Results obtained (as Log Kd) were 3.5 and 4.1 for Renca and Las Ventanas respectively, suggesting low mobility of mercury species in the environment for both sites. Finally, the data obtained allowed us to establish a first approximation of the differences in concentration and mobility of total and MMHg associated with coal fired power plants emission in central-northern Chile, an area previously understudied in a country heavily dependent on fossil-fuels.

Using a portable total reflection X‐ray fluorescence system for a multielement analysis of Swiss mice brains with experimental Alzheimer's disease induced by β‐amyloid oligomers

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and irreversible disorder whose pathological features include β‐amyloid (Aβ) plaques and neuronal and synaptic loss. Metals such as iron, copper, and zinc are increased in the brains of patients with AD. Those metals can interact with Aβ, resulting in the promotion of Aβ deposition and formation of plaque. However, no study analyzing the effects of single injection of Aβ soluble oligomers (AβOs) in the elements' homeostasis in mice was developed. Total reflection X‐ray fluorescence (TXRF) is a multielement analytical technique that can be utilized to identify and quantify trace elements present in a sample at very low concentrations. In this study, in order to evaluate the concentration of metals in brain regions of Swiss mice, three groups of female mice and three of male mice were studied: control, AD10, and AD100. The AD groups received an AβOs intracerebroventricular injection so as to induce experimental AD. Afterwards, a craniotomy was performed, and six brain compartments were dissected and evaluated. TXRF measurements were performed using a portable TXRF system that uses an X‐ray tube with a molybdenum anode and a detector Si‐PIN. It is proved to determine the following elements' concentrations: phosphorus, sulfur, potassium, iron, copper, zinc, and rubidium. Results showed differences in the elemental concentration in some brain regions between AD groups. These alterations suggest that AβOs act quickly, even before the amyloid plaques' formation, explaining cognitive deficits independently of amyloid plaques. This study helped to understand that this modification on elemental concentration can be influenced by AβOs.

Metal Accumulation in Muscle and Liver of the Common Nase (Chondrostoma nasus) and Vimba Bream (Vimbavimba) from the Danube River, Serbia: Bioindicative Aspects

Accumulation of 17 elements in muscle and liver of common nase and vimba bream, caught between February and May 2016 in the Danube River (1173 river kilometer), were assessed by ICP-OES. The principal component analysis grouped muscle and liver samples based on element concentrations (muscle grouped by higher Ba and Sr values, and liver grouped by higher Al, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn values), but no grouping between the two species was observed. Concentrations of Ba, Cu, Fe, and Zn were significantly higher in muscle, and concentrations of Ba, Cd, Cu, and Mn in liver of common nase, while vimba bream had significantly higher concentrations of Cr and Fe in liver. Common nase has a higher affinity for bioaccumulation of Cu, Fe, and Zn in muscle, while vimba bream has a higher affinity for Al, Cd, and Cr in muscle.

Assessment of metal contamination in fish from estuaries of southern and southeastern Brazil

Historically, the Brazilian coast has been impacted by urban, industrial, and port activities that have increased the input of chemical contaminants, such as heavy metals, to the ecosystem. The Paranaguá estuarine complex (PEC), Cananéia-Iguape estuarine-lagoon complex (CIELC), and Santos-São Vicente estuarine complex (SSVEC) (S-SE Brazil) are surrounded by urbanized cities and port areas characterized by various anthropogenic discharges comprising several potential pollutants, including heavy metals. Concerns about such contamination are paramount because these estuaries are important for traditional fishing communities and are categorized as World Heritage sites and biodiversity hotspots by UNESCO. In this study, metals (Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Hg) and metalloids (As and Se) known to affect the health of marine life were evaluated in regional fishes. Muscle and liver tissues from three demersal teleosts (Stellifer rastrifer, Paralonchurus brasiliensis, and Isopisthus parvipinnis) were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), with a coupled vapor generated accessory (VGA). Irrespective of species, metal bioconcentration was significantly greater in fishes from the PEC and CIELC, which had higher As, Cu, and Zn concentrations, while Se levels were higher in fish from the PEC and SSVEC estuaries. Seasonality, fish species and maturation stage affected the accumulation of metals. Some metal levels, including As, Cr, Pb, and Se in all species across all estuaries, and Zn in the PEC, exceeded the maximum permitted level for seafood and might present a risk for daily human consumption. The results provide reference points for existing chemical contamination and should be used to guide monitoring programs and the sustainable development of these coastal regions, within a broader objective of maintaining public health.

Trace Metals in the Freshwater Fish Cyprinus carpio: Effect to Serum Biochemistry and Oxidative Status Markers

Interactions between trace metals, serum biochemical parameters, and oxidative status markers were observed. Freshwater fish Cyprinuscarpio blood samples (n = 38) were collected at the beginning of May (n = 19) and at the end of July (n = 19) of 2015. The concentrations of metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr, and Zn) were analyzed in blood serum samples of fishes by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and Hg was determined by cold-vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy (CV-AAS). The general scheme of descending concentrations of metals in blood serum samples was as follows: Zn > Fe > Cu > Sr > Cr > Ni > Mn > Pb > Se > As > Cd > Hg. Zn was the most accumulated element (4.42-119.64 mg/L) in both seasons. Overall, the trace element content was higher in spring season, except Hg, Ni, Se, and Sr. The seasonal effect was confirmed for Mn, Zn, Mg, Glu, AST, and Chol levels and for most oxidative status markers. The gender effect was confirmed for Sr, GPx, PC, Chol, and CK concentrations. Trace metals (especially Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Sr, Zn, As) significantly affected some blood serum chemistry parameters. The correlation analysis between oxidative status markers (ROS, TAC, MDA, SOD, GSH, UA, BHB, and Alb) and trace metal (Cd, Cu, Ni, Sr, Hg, Pb, Fe, Mn) content confirmed statistically significant interactions in both seasons. Obtained results indicate specific actions of trace metals.

Mercury, silver, selenium and other trace elements in three cyprinid fish species from the Vaal Dam, South Africa, including implications for fish consumers

The levels of Cr, Cu, Zn, Se, Ag, Cd, Hg, and Pb were determined in muscle and liver samples from 30 specimens of fish belonging to the species Labeobarbus aeneus, Labeobarbus kimberleyensis, and Labeo umbratus from the Vaal Dam. Health risks for human fish consumers were estimated using the target hazard quotient (THQ), the Se:Hg-ratio, and Se health benefit value (Se HBV). This is the first comprehensive report on Hg levels in fish from this lake. Mean concentrations ranging from 0.247-0.481 mg/kg dw in muscle and from 0.170-0.363 mg/kg dw in liver clearly show a contamination with this element. Although levels in muscle did not exceed maximum allowances for human consumption, a calculated THQ of 0.12 and 0.14 for the two Labeobarbus species, respectively, showed a potential risk due to additive effects. All Se:Hg-ratios as well as Se HBVs clearly suggested positive effects for fish consumers. Levels of Cu were remarkably high in the liver of L. umbratus, calling for further investigation on this species. Cadmium levels were above the maximum allowances for fish consumption in the liver of all three species (means between 0.190 and 0.460 mg/kg dw), but below the LOD in all muscle and intestine samples. This is also the first report of Ag in fish from South Africa. Levels were below the LOD in muscle, but well detectable in liver; they varied significantly between the two Labeobarbus species (0.054 ± 0.030 and 0.037 ± 0.016 mg/kg dw) compared to L. umbratus (1.92 ± 0.83 mg/kg dw) and showed a positive correlation with Cu levels (63.7 ± 17.0; 70.3 ± 9.0 and 1300 ± 823 mg/kg dw), possibly due to similar chemical affinities to metallothioneins. The detected Ag levels can serve as a basis to monitor the development of this new pollutant in aquatic environments in South Africa and worldwide.

Seasonal variation in metal concentration in various tissues of the European chub (Squalius cephalus L.)

Due to the increasing industrialization, metals are discharged into all spheres of the environment, in particular, in river courses, which leads to the need for constant monitoring. Metals do not degrade into harmless end products; they are very persistent and have high potential for accumulation in biota. Metals in the fish body are accumulated in different amounts in the tissue specific matter. In relation to the biotic conditions and fish metabolism, the load of food, or the stage of the reproductive cycle, the seasonal variation of metal levels can be expected. Because of that, the objective of our present study was to analyze 15 metals and metalloids in liver, gills, muscle, and gonads of European chub (Squalius cephalus) throughout the 4 seasons, autumn, winter, spring, and summer. The specimens were collected from two rivers, Pestan and Beljanica at the Kolubara basin, and their concentrations were determined with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Specimens from both rivers have shown similarities in metal accumulation like the highest accumulation of majority of elements in gills, lowest accumulation of majority of elements in muscle (except for Hg), and higher accumulation of some elements in summer (Cu, Fe, Zn). In addition, Cu and Fe showed affinity for liver, while Ba, Cr, Sr, and Zn were specific for gills. Also, Al, B, Fe, Ni, and Pb did not show significant differences in concentrations among different seasons in all investigated tissues.

Potentially toxic elements in muscle tissue of different fish species from the Sava River and risk assessment for consumers

Fish from the Sava River are consumed daily by the local people: therefore, concern has been raised about the health implications of eating contaminated fish. In the present study, potentially toxic elements (PTE), such as Zn, Cu, Cr, Ni, Cd, Pb, As, Hg, and methylmercury (MeHg), were determined in ichthyofauna that are commonly consumed. PTE were determined in the fish muscle tissue. Fish were sampled at 12 locations from the source of the Sava River to its confluence with the Danube River during two sampling campaigns, namely; in 2014 under high water conditions and in 2015 under normal water conditions. Due to the different water regimes, different fish species were collected for chemical analysis. We observed that the concentrations of elements analysed in the fish muscle tissue were generally very low, except for those of Hg. Moreover, more than 90% of Hg present in the fish was in its most toxic form, namely MeHg. Especially in fish from the 2015 sampling campaign, Hg and MeHg concentrations increased with fish size, trophic level, and in the downstream direction. In addition, for Pb and As, and to some extent for Cd and Cr, spatial differences were detected in both years. The highest concentrations of PTE were detected in fish from sites with intensive industrial and agricultural activities. The consumption of fish in general does not pose a health risk for the PTE studied, except for Hg/MeHg at selected contaminated sites.

Bioaccumulation of Copper and Zinc and the Effects on Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in the Liver of Acipenser stellatus (Pallas, 1771)

Although water pollution by metals in the Danube River is considered high, little is known about its impact on sturgeons. In this regard, the aim of this study was to investigate the bioaccumulation of copper and zinc as well as their effects on antioxidant enzymes activities in the liver of Acipenser stellatus. The fish were exposed for 7 and 14 days, to two concentrations of copper and zinc (10% and 25% of LC50 96 h), previously determined as 0.54 mg/L Cu²⁺ and, 34.22 mg/L Zn²⁺ respectively. The enzymatic responses of A. stellatus varied greatly depending on metal type, concentration and time. Significant bioaccumulation of the two metals was recorded. Even though the water hardness used in the experiment is known to offer a clear protection against metal contamination, stellate sturgeon remains a sensitive species in the face of metal toxicity.

Uranium transfer and accumulation in organs of Danio rerio after waterborne exposure alone or combined with diet-borne exposure

Uranium (U) toxicity patterns for fish have been mainly determined under laboratory-controlled waterborne exposure conditions. Because fish can take up metals from water and diet under in situ exposure conditions, a waterborne U exposure experiment (20 μg L^-1 , 20 d) was conducted in the laboratory to investigate transfer efficiency and target organ distribution in zebrafish Danio rerio compared with combined waterborne exposure (20 μg L^-1 ) and diet-borne exposure (10.7 μg g^-1 ). ²³³ Uranium was used as a specific U isotope tracer for diet-borne exposure. Bioaccumulation was examined in the gills, liver, kidneys, intestine, and gonads of D. rerio. Concentrations in the organs after waterborne exposure were approximately 500 ng g^-1 fresh weight, except in the intestine (> 10 μg g^-1 fresh wt) and the kidneys (200 ng g^-1 fresh wt). No significant difference was observed between waterborne and diet-borne conditions. Trophic U transfer in organs was found but at a low level (< 10 ng g^-1 fresh wt). Surprisingly, the intestine appeared to be the main target organ after both tested exposure modalities. The gonads (57% at 20 d) and the liver (41% at 20 d) showed the highest accumulated relative U burdens. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:90-98. © 2018 SETAC.

Bioaccumulation, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress of the acute exposure selenium in Oreochromis mossambicus

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace-element that becomes toxic when present at high concentrations for aquatic organisms. The knowledge about the mechanism of Se toxicity in freshwater ecosystem is still poorly studied. Thus the aim of the present study was to assess the impact of environmentally relevant concentrations of Se toxicity: 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 µg/L or water only (control) for periods of 96 hour (h) to test for Se accumulation (gill, liver and brain), its effects on enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses (gill and liver), oxidative stress effects on lipid, protein (gill and liver), DNA (liver) and inhibition of AchE (brain) activity were measured in Mozambique tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus. Our result showed that Se accumulation was observed in the gill, liver and brain tissues of fish exposed to different concentrations and accumulation varied upon different tissues. Enzymatic (SOD, CAT, GPx and GST) and non-enzymatic (GSH and MT) antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-s-transferase (GST) were significantly increased after 96 h exposure of higher concentrations Se in the gill and liver tissue with the exception of GST activity was significantly inhibited in liver after 96 h exposure of higher concentrations of Se. In contrast, catalase (CAT) activities were inhibited for both tissues of Se exposure at 96 h. Reduced glutathione (GSH) and Metallothionein (MT) levels were increased in the gill and liver tissues after exposure to Se for 96 h. We also observed that Se affected antioxidant defense, increasing oxidative stress indicator of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonyl (PCO) in gill and liver tissues of fish exposed to Se for 96 h at the concentration dependent manner. Increased DNA damage scores observed in liver tissue of fish exposed to Se for concentrations dependent manner, indicating potential of Se on fish. We also observed inhibition of acetylcholine esterase (AchE) activity in brain tissue of fish exposed to Se for higher concentrations. The changes in these parameters can be used as suitable biomarkers for monitoring the toxicity of Se in the aquatic environment.

Heavy metals concentration and human health risk assessment in seven commercial fish species from Asafo Market, Ghana

Health risk assessment and heavy metal accumulation were evaluated in the muscles of widely consumed Trachurus trachurus, Lutjanus fulgens, Lutjanus goreensis, Acanthocybium solandri, Pagellus bellottii, Scomber colias and Dentex congoensis fish species in Asafo, Ghana. The fish samples were prepared using a wet digestion method and the heavy metals analysis was performed with the flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (UNICAM 969). The results revealed that Mn, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb concentrations were below the permissible values set by several health institutions. The health risk assessment based on non-carcinogenic and cancer factors effect indicates no adverse health effect of fish intake. The results of heavy metal concentrations showed that different varieties of fish could be safe for human intake and the results are anticipated to create alertness among the local people.

Differential biochemical responses to metal/metalloid accumulation in organs of an edible fish (Centropomus parallelus) from Neotropical estuaries

Metal/metalloid accumulation in fish organs elicits biochemical responses indicating the overall fish and environmental health status. This study evaluated the bioaccumulation of metals and metalloid in relation to a suite of biochemical biomarkers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, Na+/K+-ATPase, H+-ATPase, acetylcholinesterase activities and the levels of glutathione, metallothionein, lipid peroxidation and oxidized protein) in different organs of fish, Centropomus parallelus, in Vitória Bay and Santa Cruz estuaries (State of Espírito Santo, Brazil) with distinct contamination levels. Metal and metalloid concentrations differ in each organ and were significantly higher in winter than in summer. Chemometric evaluation performed between metal/metalloid accumulation and the biomarkers revealed a complex scenario in which the biomarker responses depend on both metal accumulation and organ/tissue sensitivity. The metal levels in gills indicate fish contamination mainly via water and the low sensitivity of this organ to most metals. Biomarker responses suggested that the metal elimination pathway is through the gills and kidney. The hepatopancreas and kidneys were the most important detoxification organs while muscle was the less reactive tissue. In general, the finding suggested that, C. parallelus is partly able to tolerate such metal contamination. However, it is emphasized that the biomarker responses imply an energetic cost and may affect the growth rate and reproduction. Given the ecological and economic importance of C. parallelus, the level of toxic metals/metalloids in juvenile fish is an important early-warning for the maintenance, conservation and commercial use of this species.

Ecological risk assessment for different macrophytes and fish species in reservoirs using biota-sediment accumulation factors as a useful tool

Metal content was evaluated in the sediment, macrophytes and fish in the Medjuvršje reservoir (Western Serbia). Concentrations of 16 trace elements (Ag; Al; As; B; Ba; Cd; Co; Cr; Cu; Fe; Li; Mn; Ni; Pb; Sr; Zn) were analysed in the sediment, macrophytes and fish of an aquatic ecosystem. Five macrophyte species and three fish tissues (liver, muscle, gills) from five fish species (freshwater bream, common nase, Prussian carp, chub, wels catfish) were sampled and the metal content was analysed with ICP-OES. The sediment concentrations of Cu, Cd, and Zn exceeded the Canadian sediment quality guidelines while concentrations of Cr and Ni were above the Netherlands' target values. Bioaccumulation factors (BSAF) were calculated for analysed macrophytes and fish tissue. The BSAF had higher values for macrophytes for all investigated elements except for Cu and Zn; Cu had a higher value in the liver of the freshwater bream (0.823) and Zn had a higher value in the liver of freshwater bream (0.914) and chub (0.834) as well as in gills of Prussian carp (2.58) and chub (1.26). Potamogeton pectinatus, Ceratophylum demersum and the root of Phragmites communis showed higher accumulation of elements than Trapa natans and Potamogeton fluitans and the body of P. communis. The highest BSAF values for Ba, Mn, Sr and Ni were recorded in the gills. Cd and Cu had the highest BSAF values in the liver. Results confirmed that particular macrophyte and fish species could be a good indicator of reservoir water and sediment pollution.

Metals in fish of different trophic levels in the area of influence of the AHE Foz do Chapecó reservoir, Brazil

In regions where there is intense polluting activity, a greater availability of metals in water impounded by dams increases the availability and contamination of the fauna and flora. Thus, we assessed the accumulation of metals in muscle and gills of fish of different trophic levels in the area of influence of Foz do Chapecó hydroelectric plant on the Uruguai river. We analyzed the metals Pb, Cd, Cu, Cr, Mn, Zn, and Fe in Hypostomus isbrueckeri (cascudo), Pimelodus maculatus (mandi), and Salminus brasiliensis (dourado). We collected specimens from both upstream and downstream of the reservoir in February and March 2014. We also measured the allometric condition factor of the fish to determine their physiological status. Physical and chemical variables of the water were measured to determine the influence of these abiotic variables on the bioavailability of metals and on the condition factor of the fish. Gills had a higher concentration of metals than muscle. Hypostomus isbrueckeri and Pimelodus maculatus possessed high concentrations of metals, indicating greater bioaccumulation in benthic species. Only chromium in muscle varied significantly between upstream and downstream, with higher concentrations in H. isbrueckeri and P. maculatus upstream. Chromium contamination, however, did not change the condition factor, which did not vary between upstream and downstream for any of the studied species. We found no influence of abiotic variables of the water on the bioavailability of the metals in the environment. Although the data do not indicate trophic magnification, the different species react differently to environmental changes and their trophic plasticity makes it difficult to assign them to specific guilds.