| dc.description.abstract | This study concerns an assessment of essential and toxic metals (Zn, Cu, As, Cr and Cd) in some popular farm
fishes which are largely consumed by the populations of the Southern region in Bangladesh. Three different
species of fish (T. nilotica, P. pangasius and L. rohita) were collected from four representative farms located in the
Fatickchari, Hathazari, Patiya and Raozan Upazila of Chittagong district. Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer
(FAAS) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (GFAAS) were used to measure the metal con-
centrations. The order of concentration of metals in flesh was Zn > Cu > Cr > As > Cd with values of 16.205
0.303 > 0.874 0.037 > 0.590 0.05 >0.042 0.003 > 0.004 0.00 (mg/kg dw) in T. nilotica, 20.324 0.697
> 1.035 0.050> 0.577 0.074> 0.045 0.005 > 0.006 0.000 (mg/kg dw) in P. pangasius and 22.270
0.745 > 0.953 0.525 > 0.623 0.060 > 0.035 0.002 > 0.004 0.000 (mg/kg dw) in L. rohita. Measured
data lie within the permissible limits recommended by WHO/FAO. Potential metal toxicity to human health
following the consumption of the studied fishes was estimated via a number of hazard parameters: Daily intake of
metal (DIM), Target hazard quotient (THQ), Hazard index (HI) and Target risk (TR), all of the data show values
within the recommended level given by regulatory bodies. Estimated TR for potential carcinogenic metals As, Cr
and Cd were found in the range (106 - 105
), which lies within the US-EPA risk range of 106 - 104
. Note that,
fish consumption forms a minor part of the total diet while the US-EPA risk range is for the dietary intake from all
foods. Therefore the estimated risk may not be totally neglected. Moreover, considering the non-biodegradability
of toxic metals and their potential uptake in fish tissues, reduction in metal supplementation in fish feed should be
introduced and periodic monitoring of fish may help to mitigate non-essential metal toxicity to consumers. | en_US |
