Trace element concentration and its risk assessment in common kilka (Clupeonella cultriventris caspia Bordin, 1904) from southern basin of Caspian Sea

This study evaluated the extent of metal levels of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) in edible muscles of common kilka at Babolsar and Amirabad coastal regions from the southern basin of Caspian Sea. These values were compared with the WHO and the UNFAO safety standards regarding the amount of the abovementioned heavy metals in fish tissues (mg/kg w.w.). Results showed that Zn concentrations were highest among the trace elements examined, while concentrations of Hg were generally the lowest in the analyzed tissues. In the other hand, the accumulation of these elements was not significantly different between coastal regions (p > 0.05). While accumulation of Cu and Mn at edible muscles of Clupeonella cultriventris were significant difference between two coastal regions (p < 0.05). The distribution patterns of trace element concentration follows the order: Zn > Cu > Cr > Cd > Ni > Mn > Pb > Hg. Furthermore, Pearson correlation revealed that Zn, Cu, Mn, Ni, Cr, Pb, Cd and Hg in edible muscles of C. cultriventris were not significantly correlated in length (R2 < 0.50; p > 0.05), but it was significantly correlated in weight (p < 0.05). The calculated target hazard quotients (THQ) of all trace elements were less than 1. Consequently, there was no obvious public risk from the intake of these trace elements through C. cultriventris consumption.