Multi-elemental concentrations in tissues of Japanese common squid (Todarodes pacificus)

Forty-five elements were determined in mantle muscle and liver of juvenile Japanese common squid, Todarodes pacificus, collected from three locations in and near Japanese coasts, using a high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (HR-ICP-MS) and an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscope (ICP-AES). Multivariate statistical techniques were applied to discriminate populations of squids from these three locations by treating absolute and relative concentrations of trace elements. Significant differences were found in the concentrations of elements, particularly for some alkaline and alkaline earth elements in the muscle and liver and for some 3d transition elements in the liver of three groups of squids. Squids from the Pacific Ocean could be distinguished from those of the Sea of Japan by discriminant function analysis of elemental concentrations. Based on the analysis, the squids collected from the Nemuro Strait in Japan were predicted to belong to those from the Sea of Japan. Elemental concentrations and discriminant function analysis can be used to identify subpopulations and migratory routes of squids.