Mercury bioaccumulation in pike (Esox lucius) from Anzali Lagoon, Iran

Abstract

This paper presents the levels of total mercury (T-Hg) in dorsal muscle, liver and spleen of pike (Esox lucius) from Anzali Lagoon in Iran. Sampling were carried out from July 2004 to July 2005. In addition 78 samples were collected. T-Hg concentration were calculated in relation to biometric factors. T-Hg was measured by the LECO AMA 254 Advanced Mercury Analyzer (USA) according to ASTM standard NoD-6722. Each sample was analyzed 3 times. Accuracy of T-Hg analysis was checked by running three samples of Standard Reference Materials; SRM 1633b, SRM 2711 and SRM 2709. Detection limit was 0.001mg/kg in dry weight. The minimum and maximum concentration ofT-Hg in dorsal muscle was 0.2ppm in one year and 1.2ppm in five year class. The mean T-Hg significantly increased wit age increased (P<0.05). The T-Hg mean concentration. In 1 and 2 year classes was 0.171ppm. Accamulation pattern ofHg was significantly as well as muscle>liver>spleen. T-Hg content in females was higher than males (P<0.05). Acceptable monthly intake without carcinogenic effects due to mercury for women, men, juveniles and children was 270, 320, 125 and 59g per month. Consumption of pike above 35cm. length should be avoided.