Distribution pattern of total mercury (T-Hg) in muscle, liver and spleen of Pike (Esox lucius) in Anzali wetland, Caspian Sea

The present study aimed to investigate the bioaccumulation of total mercury (T-Hg) in dorsal muscle (edible tissue), liver, and spleen of pike (Esoxlucius) from Anzali Lagoon, Iran. Acceptable monthly intakes (AMI) were measured based on FDA criteria. Sampling were carried out using gillnet and electro-shocker from July 2020 to July 2021. In addition,78 specimens (age range 1-5 yr; total length: 10-58cm; weight: 12-1560g.) were collected. Samples were analyzed by LECO AMA254. The measurements were conducted according to the following procedures: drying time 70s, decomposition time 120 s at 600°C in an oxygen atmosphere, and waiting time 50s. The same procedure was used with a blank sample. Each series was preceded bymeasuring the form of T-Hg in the certified reference material according to ASTM standard NOD-6722 with three standard reference material; SRM 1633b, 2709 SRM and 2711 SRM in three replications. Accuracy degree ranged from 95.5 to 105%. Detection limits was 0.001 mg/kg in dry weight. The min and max of T-Hg in dorsal muscles were ranged between 0.2 and 1.2ppm. The min T-Hg significantly increased with age increased (P<0.05). T-Hg concentration in muscles were significantly higher than liver and spleen (P<0.05) and higher in females than males (P<0.05). T-Hg distribution pattern in tissues was as follows: muscle> liver> spleen (P<0.05). AMI estimates for women, men, teenager and children as 270, 320, 125, and 59g,respectively.