Integrative biomonitoring in Litopenaeus vannamei: Metal analysis and biochemical markers

Contaminants are a major cause of seafood export rejections in foreign markets and have significantly impacted consumer health. This investigation addresses the issues of metal contamination and biochemical markers in Litopenaeus vannamei from East Midnapore, West Bengal, India. The analyzed metals included vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), molybdenum (Mo), silver (Ag), gallium (Ga), germanium (Ge), arsenic (As), selenium (Se), strontium (Sr), tin (Sn), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb), using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Samples were collected from the muscle and hepatopancreas of L. vannamei, as well as from soil sediments and water at 19 sampling sites. The trace element levels detected were within the safety limits recommended by national and international regulatory agencies. A risk assessment, based on the Total Hazard Quotient (THQ) and cancer risk factors, indicated that L. vannamei cultured in this region is safe for human consumption. Additionally, oxidative enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione s-transferase were measured as biomarkers. Other biochemical markers, including lipid peroxidation and acetylcholinesterase activity, were also assessed. Enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and malate dehydrogenase were identified as key biochemical indicators of pollution in this study. In conclusion, the findings suggest that the consumption of L. vannamei from East Midnapore is safe according to FAO/WHO guidelines. The study also highlights the utility of biochemical markers as reliable indicators of pollution in open water systems.