Distribution of trace metals in parts of stock fish marketed in three markets around Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

This research was carried out to determine the distribution of trace metals in parts (head and tail) of stock fish marketed in three markets around Port Harcourt (Rumuokoro, Choba and Alakahia markets). Iron (Fe) concentration values was the highest in all the fish samples (ranging from 0.98-3.09 mg/kg) while Nickel was below the detection limit with exception of the fish head sample obtained from Alakahia market (0.003 mg/kg). The concentration of the heavy metals were below the recommended limit suggested by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), European Union Commission (EU/EC), United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the Federal Protection Agency (FEPA) with the exception of cadmium (Cd) in the fish head samples (0.061 and 0.081 mg/kg) obtained from the Choba and Alakahia markets which were above the EU recommended limits (0.05 mg/kg).