Lead and Cadmium concentration in muscle of Karut Croaker (Argyrosomus hololepidotus) in different age groups at north western waters of the Persian Gulf

The present study was carried out in 2012 to assess and compare the heavy metals concentration (Pb, Cd) in muscle tissue of karut croaker (Argyrosomus hololepidotus) and its relationship with age groups in north western of the Persian Gulf waters.
Samples were collected during March to October from Abadan and Hendijan fishery stations. 48 fish samples were collected in 3 age groups. In order to assess heavy metals in karut croaker with different age groups the samples were divided into 3 age classes of under 2, 2-4 and 4-6 years. Complex samples were obtained from mixing separated muscles of different samples. Complex samples were chemically digested by wet method and assessment of heavy metals concentration was done using atomic absorption device.
Average of Pb and Cd concentrating in muscle tissue were 312.25± 63.49 and 154.17±16.8 microgram per kilogram dried Wight, respectively. The most amount of heavy metal concentration among different age groups was observed in the age group of 4-6 years which was 388±26.49 and 169.75±11.14 for Pb and Cd, respectively. Relationship between age and Pb concentrating showed significantly positive trend (P Pb and Cd concentration of the studied samples were under permissible limits of WHO and FDA.