Trophodynamics and bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in marine food web from Laizhou Bay, China

Here, we collected 16 species (n = 298) from Laizhou Bay, China to investigate the trophodynamics, bio-accumulation and cancer risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Results demonstrated that naphthalene was the most abundant PAH, followed by phenanthrene and fluorene in the marine organisms. The sum of 16 PAHs concentrations (S(16)PAHs) ranked with algae (19,435 ng.g(-1) lipid weight, lw) > benthonic animals (6599 ng.g(-1) lw) > fish (1760 ng.g(-1) lw). Combustion and oil spill are two primary sources, contributing 60.3 % and 39.7 % of S(16)PAHs, respectively. High values of log BAF were found for W4-6 rings PAHs. Algae and benthonic animals showed a high ability to accumulate 2-4 rings PAHs and 5-6 rings PAHs, respectively. A biodilution pattern for PAHs was found in the marine food web. The carcinogenic risks of some benthos and fish were higher than 1 x 10(-6), threatening resident health by consumption of these seafoods.

Automated summary

This study investigated the trophodynamics, bio-accumulation, and cancer risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 16 species collected from Laizhou Bay, China. Results showed that naphthalene was the most abundant PAH in marine organisms. The concentrations of PAHs varied among algae, benthonic animals, and fish, with combustion and oil spill being the primary sources. Algae and benthonic animals had a high ability to accumulate different rings of PAHs. A biodilution pattern of PAHs was observed in the marine food web. Some benthos and fish had carcinogenic risks above the safe limit, posing a threat to human health.