Distribution of three non-essential trace metals (Cadmium, Mercury and Lead) in the organs of fish from Aiba Reservoir, Iwo, Nigeria

This study shows similarity (p > 0.05) in the distribution of Cd, Hg and Pb among fish species; and a non-uniform distribution of toxic trace metals within fish organs with Kidney > Liver > Gill ≥ Intestine ≥ Muscle. Canonical variate analysis shows clear discrimination of Clarias macromystax and Channa obscura for gill trace metal levels of Cd, Hg and Pb while Labeo senegalensis and Oreochromis niloticus were discriminated for liver trace metal values of Cd and Pb only when compared to other fish species studied. The discrimination of some fish species based on trace metals in the gills and liver suggests different regulatory strategies for trace metal accumulation. Variation due to comparison among different fish species from the same water body suggests that accumulation may be species dependent. Differential accumulation of toxic trace metals in fish organs makes them good bioindicators of freshwater contamination.
Source: Toxicology Reports - Category: Toxicology Source Type: research