HEAVY METALS BIOACCUMULATION AND RISK ESTIMATION IN EDIBLE FRESHWATER FISH FROM PEDROSO RESERVOIR (MAYABEQUE, CUBA)

Abstract

This work is a validation of the second step of a heavy metal monitoring procedure in Cuba fluvial ecosystems. Concentrations of seven heavy metals were measured by ICP-MS in water samples collected from the Pedroso reservoir (Mayabeque province, Cuba) and its main tributaries, as well as in edible muscle of three locally consumed fish species: Oreochromis spp., Tinca tinca and Clarias gariepinus. The results show a high concentration of Pb in areas near a paint factory (85.5 μg/L), an asphalt factory and a high traffic area (345.8 μg/L). Metal content (in mg/kg ww) in fish fillet ranged as follows: Cr (0.01-0.58), Co (0.01-0.58), Cu (0.23-88.16), Zn (4.9-29.9), As (0.01-0.86), Cd (0.02-2.93) and Pb (0.01-1.23). According to Cuban regulations, concentrations of Cd in muscle are not safe in 37.5 to 44.0 % of the studied fishes, while Pb is high in 14.0 to 20.0 %. Non-carcinogenic risk (HI) is present when daily intake is above 81 g/day. Carcinogenic risk (ELCR) is calculated to be 5.8 × 10–4 according to the US-EPA methodology. Fishermen families are the most sensitive population sector. Local authorities were informed and different measures were taken to avoid polluted fish consumption and the reduction of pollutant sources.