The heavy metals in the muscle of some imported frozen fish in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

The heavy metal levels in the edible muscles of eight species of imported frozen fishes in four major markets in Ibadan were examined. The species examined were Ethmalosa harengus, Micromesistius poutassou, Sardinella eba, Trachurus trachurus, Scomber scombrus, Scomberomorous tritor, Pseudotololithus elongatus and Miracovina angolensis. The heavy metal values in the edible muscle of the fishes were determined through Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric (AAS) techniques.
The heavy metals examined were iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb). Mean levels of each element are presented in relation to the number of species examined.
The heavy metals (iron, zinc, and copper) were observed in the muscles of the fishes examined with exception of lead, which was found only in Trachurus trachurus (1.68+0.24 mg /kg). The general pattern in descending order of heavy metals accumulation in the muscle of the fishes examined is Fe > Zn > Cu > Pb.The highest mean value of heavy metals recorded is the iron level in Scomber scombrus (944.38+ 548.58mg/kg)
The concentration of iron and copper were significantly different (P < 0.05) among the fish samples. The mean value of Iron in Scomber scombrus samples examined was higher than the World Health Organization (W. H .O) allowable limit in food.


Keywords: Heavy metals, Muscle, Imported Fishes, Nigeria

Journal of Environmental Extension Vol. 6 2007: pp. 1-4