Trace elements in edible shellfish species from the lower Gangetic delta

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Marine Biology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Edible shellfish can accumulate trace elements, posing risks to human health via the food chain.
• Industrial and anthropogenic activities in the River Ganga contribute complex wastes, potentially increasing pollutant levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify concentrations of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) in key edible shellfish species.
• To assess the spatial variations and bioaccumulation patterns of these trace elements in the River Ganga.
• To evaluate the implications for human consumption and food safety.

Main Methods:

• Shellfish samples (Penaeus monodon, Penaeus indicus, Scylla serrata, Saccostrea cucullata, Crassostrea madrasensis) were collected from the lower River Ganga.
• Trace element analysis was performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Main Results:

• Alarming concentrations of Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd were detected in the analyzed shellfish species.
• Significant spatial variations in trace element levels were observed across different sampling locations.
• The bioaccumulation of these trace elements demonstrated species-specific patterns.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights a significant risk to human health from consuming shellfish from the River Ganga due to high trace element contamination.
• Understanding species-specific bioaccumulation is crucial for accurate risk assessment.
• Effective waste management strategies are needed to mitigate trace element pollution in the River Ganga.