Document Type : Full research article
Authors
1 Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, University of Hormozgan Specialties: Spectroscopy, Electrochemistry, Kinetics, Environment, Hormozgan, Iran.
2 M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry, Qeshm International University, Qeshm, Iran.
Abstract
Heavy metals are among the most important aquatic pollutants due to their persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and adverse effects on living organisms, particularly humans. The present study was conducted during winter 2023 and summer 2024 to determine lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) concentrations in the muscle tissue of Lethrinus nebulosus collected from Bandar Lengeh, Bandar Abbas, and Qeshm coastal waters (Hormozgan Province, Iran), and to evaluate the potential human health risks associated with fish consumption. Following acid digestion of the samples, metal concentrations were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). The results showed that the highest concentrations of Pb and Cd were detected in samples collected from Qeshm, whereas the lowest concentrations were observed in Bandar Lengeh. The concentrations of both metals were below the maximum permissible limits established by FAO, WHO, FDA, NHMRC, and UKMAFF guidelines. Furthermore, the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) values for both adults and children were lower than the reference doses recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). The calculated Hazard Index (HI) values were also below 1, indicating no significant non-carcinogenic health risk associated with the consumption of Lethrinus nebulosus from the studied areas. Continuous monitoring of heavy metal contamination in marine ecosystems is recommended to ensure seafood safety and environmental protection.
Keywords
- Lead
- Cadmium
- Lethrinus nebulosus
- Heavy metals
- Estimated Daily Intake (EDI)
- Hazard Index (HI)
- Persian Gulf
Main Subjects
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