Concentrations of lead, cadmium, and mercury in Mullus barbatus barbatus (L.) from the Algerian coast and health risks associated to its consumption

The Algerian coast receives significant inputs of metallic pollutants. To assess the accumulation of potentially toxic elements (Pb, Cd, Hg) by benthic fish and the consequent health risks for consumers, red mullet specimens (Mullus barbatus barbatus, Linnaeus, 1758) were sampled (n=424) in 3 sites along the Algerian coast (Algiers, Bejaia and Dellys) and analysed for Pb, Cd and Hg in muscles and liver. Spatio-temporal and biological variations were highlighted. The highest concentrations were observed in the liver for the three elements. Mean Pb and Cd concentrations are higher in Algiers specimens. However, the specimens from Dellys are more contaminated by Hg in the liver (0.35 +/- 0.0001 mu g/g). Medium and large specimens show higher concentrations of the three metals. There was no clear seasonal pattern in concentration of Pb, while Hg concentrations are higher in autumn, and Cd in summer, spring and winter. No impact of the three metal elements on Fulton's K and the hepato-somatic indexes was observed. Despite the average concentrations of Pb and Cd exceeded the recommended regulatory values, few risk related to the consumption of contaminated M. barbatus barbatus inhabiting the Algerian coasts were demonstrated. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The Algerian coast receives significant metallic pollutants, with the highest concentrations of Pb, Cd, and Hg observed in the liver of benthic fish. Larger specimens show higher metal concentrations, and there are seasonal variations with Hg levels higher in autumn. Despite exceeding regulatory values, consumption of contaminated fish along the Algerian coast showed minimal health risks.