A comparative study of acquisition of heavy metals and its toxicological effects in fish species: Siluriformes and Channa punctata

Abstract

The heavy metals damage fish's physiologic and chemical composition, causing structural damage and hindering their activities. Lucknow's fisheries sector, accounting for 1% of GDP, faces contamination from heavy metals, pesticides, and fertilizers. This study examines heavy metal levels in Siluriformes and Channa punctata fish and their buildup in the Gomati River water reservoir. Fish samples from the Gomati River near Lucknow, India, were collected and dissected into pieces with stainless steel blades. The samples were then dried at 100°C for 24 hours, revealing the anatomical features of Siluriformes and Channa punctata species. The Pb, a heavy metal, was found to have the highest concentration in the scales of Siluriformes, with values in various regions, while Cd had the lowest concentration, ranging from 0.016 to 0.112 mg/kg. Excessive consumption of fish can be dangerous due to toxic metallic elements accumulation. Siluriformes and Channa punctata fish species have high levels of Lead and Cadmium, respectively, indicating potential health risks. Channa punctata and Siluriformes fish have higher heavy metal concentrations than Siluriformes, with lead, iron, and nickel levels beyond WHO limits, while chromium, zinc, cadmium, and copper levels are below WHO limits.