Evaluation of Heavy Metals Accumulation in Different Parts of Frozen and Fresh Fish in Dhi Qar Governorate, Southern Iraq

Zgeahr, Rawasi; Jawed, Sanaa

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.421078

Evaluation of Heavy Metals Accumulation in Different Parts of Frozen and Fresh Fish in Dhi Qar Governorate, Southern Iraq

Authors

10.21608/ejabf.2025.421078

Abstract

In this study, the concentration level of some heavy elements, including copper, cadmium and zinc, was determined in the gills, digestive tract and muscles of carp fish. Carp fish were chosen for their availability and abundance at the study stations (Nasiriyah City and Al-Jabaish). The concentrations of heavy metals in fish and their nutritional content were measured. Differences in the concentration of heavy metals were observed between the studied parts. The highest concentrations were recorded in the digestive tract, while the lowest concentration of heavy metals was recorded in the muscles. When compared to the limits set by the World Health Organization, it was found that some of them exceeded the permissible limits because fish are important and the presence of metals in them leads to their transmission through the food chain to humans, which leads to many diseases and many serious problems resulting from the increase of heavy metals in fish and the environment. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of heavy metal accumulation in frozen and fresh fish on human consumers. Based on the results of this research paper, there must be an ongoing follow-up to reduce and control the quantities of various materials released into the water, which cause an increase in the concentration of heavy metals in the water.

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