Heavy metal comparison in Mugil cephalus and water at Ennore Coast.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Comparison of some heavy metals in fish (mugil cephalus) and water from oil spilled area at ennore costal region, tamil nadu, india
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Malathi S., Martin P., Kuppan A., Elumalai K. and Nirmal Raj S.
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Comparison of some heavy metals in fish (mugil cephalus) and water from oil spilled area at ennore costal region, tamil nadu, india
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20189-12157
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study presented focuses on the comparison of heavy metal concentrations in the fish species Mugil cephalus (commonly known as mullet) and water samples from an oil-contaminated area in Ennore, Tamil Nadu, India, following a ship accident in January 2017. The research highlights the presence of various heavy metals, including mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic, chromium, copper, nickel, and selenium, in both marine life and water. These pollutants originate from anthropogenic activities, particularly industrial effluents and untreated urban waste. The findings emphasize the detrimental impact of marine pollution on aquatic ecosystems and human health, suggesting that the contaminated fish are unsafe for human consumption.
Heavy Metal Contamination in Marine Ecosystems
Marine ecosystems are increasingly threatened by pollution, particularly from heavy metals introduced through industrial processes and urban run-off. This study finds alarming levels of contamination in the Ennore coastal area due to operations from nearby thermal power plants and petrochemical industries. The research reveals that heavy metals accumulate in aquatic organisms, leading to increased toxicity as these metals surpass permissible limits. The study specifically outlines that heavy metals enter the food chain, ultimately affecting larger species and, consequently, human consumers.
Analysis of Water Quality and Heavy Metals
The research conducted an extensive analysis of water quality parameters in the oil spill-affected area. Findings indicate that the water showed a high concentration of chloride (6,704 ppm) and total dissolved solids (25,555 ppm), pointing to significant pollution from anthropogenic activities. Heavy metals measured in the water included mercury (0.45 ppm), chromium (2.32 ppm), and selenium (9.17 ppm), among others. These elevated levels of contaminants contribute to the degradation of the water quality, rendering it unsuitable for both marine life and human use.
Heavy Metal Concentrations in Fish Tissue
In examining the fish samples, the study reports concerning levels of heavy metals in various tissues of Mugil cephalus. The liver exhibited the highest concentrations, with mercury at 0.867 ppm, lead at 2.447 ppm, and cadmium at 0.533 ppm, among others. Such accumulation of metals in their tissues, especially in the liver, signals potential risks not only for fish health but also extends to human health upon consumption. The findings underscore the need for monitoring and regulating fish from polluted waters, as they pose serious health risks due to heavy metal toxicity.
Conclusion
The study concludes that the rise in heavy metals introduced into the marine ecosystem by industrial activities has profound implications for both aquatic life and public health. The concentrations observed in both water and fish samples indicate a major environmental issue, with the research advocating for immediate action to mitigate the release of untreated effluents into coastal waters. This study serves as a critical reminder of the need to safeguard marine environments and protect human health by ensuring that marine resources are not compromised by pollutants. Further actions and stringent regulations are necessary to prevent similar occurrences and promote the restoration of affected areas.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the purpose of the study on heavy metals?
The study aimed to analyze the concentrations of heavy metals in fish and water from the oil-spilled area of Ennore, Tamil Nadu, to assess contamination and food safety.
Which heavy metals were analyzed in the study?
The study analyzed mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and selenium (Se) in fish and water samples.
How was the water quality measured in the study?
Water samples were collected and analyzed for physico-chemical properties, including pH, turbidity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, and concentrations of heavy metals according to standard methods.
What were the main findings regarding heavy metal concentrations in fish?
The findings revealed high concentrations of mercury in liver, lead in fried tissue, and notable levels of cadmium, arsenic, chromium, copper, and selenium across various fish parts.
What was the conclusion about fish safety for consumption?
The study concluded that fish from the contaminated area may not be fit for human consumption due to high levels of heavy metals exceeding permissible limits.
What could be the source of heavy metal contamination in Ennore?
Anthropogenic activities, including industrial effluents from nearby factories and urban waste discharge, are likely sources of heavy metal contamination in the Ennore coastal region.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Heavy metal comparison in Mugil cephalus and water at Ennore Coast.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Fish:
Fish, specifically the species Mugil cephalus, was the focal point of the study, as it is a widely consumed marine food source. The research aimed to assess the heavy metal concentrations in this fish species collected from an oil-spilled area, raising concerns about food safety and public health for consumers in the region.
2) Water:
Waters refer to the marine and estuarine environments impacted by industrial pollution. Understanding the health of waters in and around Ennore is vital for assessing the ecological consequences of human activities and recognizing potential risks to public health through contaminated seafood consumption.
3) Chennai:
Chennai, a major city in Tamil Nadu, India, is closely associated with the study area of Ennore. The industrial activities and urbanization in and around Chennai significantly contribute to environmental pollution, thus affecting the quality of marine life and making it essential to assess heavy metal levels in local aquatic species.
4) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated refers to the process of heavy metals building up in organisms over time due to prolonged exposure to contaminated environments. This concept is critical in assessing the potential risks associated with consuming affected fish and for understanding bioaccumulation in the food chain.
5) Quality:
Quality denotes the state of water and fish health in the study. The research evaluated various parameters that indicate whether the marine environment is safe for aquatic life and human consumption, ultimately determining the impact of pollution and the viability of seafood from this region.
6) Table:
Tables in research documents organize data succinctly, allowing for easy comparison and analysis. The study features tables summarizing heavy metal concentrations in different organs of fish and water quality parameters, aiding quick reference for readers and emphasizing significant findings regarding environmental contamination levels.
7) Study (Studying):
The study represents a scientific investigation into the effects of oil spillage in Ennore's coastal region. It aimed to assess the contamination levels of heavy metals in both fish and water, contributing to the understanding of marine pollution's implications for ecological health and food security in the area.
8) Bharathi:
Bharathi Nagar is a coastal area near Ennore where the study was conducted. This specific region's environmental conditions and its proximity to industrial sources of pollution were focal points in analyzing the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems and seafood safety.
9) Species:
Species, particularly Mugil cephalus, is crucial to understanding biodiversity and the ecosystem's health in the study. Knowledge of how different species absorb and accumulate heavy metals helps gauge the broader effects of pollution on marine food webs and long-term ecological sustainability.
10) Zoology:
Zoology, the scientific study of animals, is the overarching discipline of the research. The study's focus on fish and their physiological responses to environmental stressors like pollution falls under zoological research, contributing to the understanding of aquatic life and its interactions with the environment.
11) Thomas:
Thomas, mentioned as a co-author, represents the collaborative aspect of scientific research. The collective expertise of several researchers enhances the study's findings and credibility, particularly in investigating complex environmental issues like heavy metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems.
12) Bengal (Bemgal):
The Bay of Bengal is the wider marine context for the study. Pollution in the Ennore coastal region ultimately affects larger aquatic systems, making the Bay of Bengal's health and its biodiversity integral to discussions of marine conservation and sustainable resource management.
13) Madra:
Madra likely refers to a typographical error in representing 'Madras'. It emphasizes the need for accuracy in science communication, as clarity in geographical and contextual references is crucial for disseminating research findings and their implications effectively.
14) India:
India is the broader national context for the study, reflecting the unique environmental challenges faced in its coastal regions. The findings can influence regional environmental policy and awareness about pollution's impact on biodiversity and human health, especially in industrialized areas like Tamil Nadu.
15) Food:
Food is a critical aspect of the study, given the implications of heavy metal contamination in marine species for human consumption. Concerns about food safety and the potential health risks for the local population underline the study's relevance to public health and dietary practices.
16) Post:
The term 'post' in the context of research documents may often refer to the aftermath or results from incidents, such as the oil spill referred to in the study. It indicates the ongoing analysis and assessment of environmental conditions following pollution events.
17) Life:
Life encompasses all living organisms affected by environmental pollution, including marine life such as fish and the humans who rely on them for sustenance. Understanding how heavy metal contamination impacts life is essential for ecological conservation and public health measures.
18) Human life:
Human life is a central theme in the research, emphasizing the importance of evaluating pollutants that could affect human health. The study calls attention to how marine contamination can have cascading effects on food security, economic well-being, and overall community health.
19) Human body:
The human body is significantly impacted by pollutants found in contaminated fish caught from polluted waters. Understanding the concentrations of heavy metals post-consumption is crucial for ensuring public health and for establishing safe agricultural and fishing practices.
20) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu is the Indian state where the study takes place, revealing how regional industrial activities lead to environmental pollution in marine ecosystems. Insights from this study can influence local environmental policies and conservation efforts in Tamil Nadu's coastal areas.
21) Red Hills:
Red Hills may reference a local area contributing to the pollution affecting the Ennore coastal region. A focus on specific geographic locations reveals how urban runoff and industrial discharge can significantly impact water quality and marine biodiversity.
22) Shridhara (Shri-dhara, Sridhara):
Sridhara, mentioned in the text, likely refers to a researcher who has previously studied heavy metals in aquatic environments. Citing prior works provides a foundation for current research, connecting findings to a broader scientific discourse on marine pollution.
23) Activity:
Activity pertains to the human actions, particularly industrial and urban discharges, that have led to increased pollution in marine environments. The study highlights how anthropogenic activities can disrupt ecological balance and necessitate strategies for pollution management and mitigation.
24) Surface:
Surface refers to the upper level of water or land where interactions between contaminants and the environment occur. Understanding surface levels of pollutants helps assess the extent of environmental degradation and highlights areas needing intervention to protect ecosystems.
25) Padmini:
Padmini, another researcher referenced, underscores the collaborative nature of environmental research. Her work, alongside other studies cited, contributes valuable insights into pollution's effects on ecosystems, informing conservation strategies and public health initiatives.
26) Santhi (Shamthi):
Shanthi is mentioned presumably as a researcher contributing to the study of heavy metals in aquatic organisms. Her work aids in understanding the physiological impacts of pollution, providing crucial data for assessing environmental health and the safety of marine resources for human use.
27) Channel:
Channel likely refers to water pathways, such as rivers or drainage systems, that transport industrial effluents into coastal and marine environments. Recognizing these channels is vital for environmental monitoring and implementing measures to reduce pollution in marine systems.
28) Malati:
Malathi is one of the co-authors involved in the research, demonstrating the collaborative effort required in conducting comprehensive environmental studies. Her contributions enrich the understanding of heavy metal contamination in the Ennore region and its implications for ecological and human health.
29) Girija (Giri-ja):
Girija, a co-author, signifies the importance of diverse expertise in environmental research. Collaboratively, she adds valuable insights regarding heavy metal pollution, enhancing the study's credibility and depth in assessing ecological risks in the study area.
30) Cancer:
Cancer signifies the potential health risks associated with heavy metal exposure, especially pollution-related toxins. This serves as a critical concern in the study, focusing on the long-term effects of consuming contaminated fish, thereby motivating research into public health recommendations.
31) Animal:
Animal encompasses all living organisms, including those found in aquatic ecosystems under study. Understanding how heavy metals affect animals is vital for assessing ecological health and risks to other species in the food web, including humans.
32) Indian:
Indian reflects the cultural and geographical context of the study, highlighting how environmental issues like heavy metal pollution uniquely affect the country's coastal regions. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and policies tailored to the nation's ecological challenges.
33) Ranga (Ramga):
Ranga, possibly referenced as a researcher or collaborator, is included in recognizing the multi-disciplinary nature of the study. The expertise and research contributions from various scientists enrich the overall understanding of heavy metal contamination and its ramifications.
34) Field:
Field refers to both the physical environment where the research was conducted and the broader scientific area of study. This term highlights the importance of integrating theoretical knowledge with empirical data gathered from real-world environments in ecological research.
35) Tamil:
Tamil refers to the cultural and linguistic context of Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the local connections to the marine environment and food sources. Understanding regional perspectives and practices is essential for establishing effective conservation and public health policies.
36) Usa (Usha):
Usha is mentioned as another researcher, indicating the team effort in addressing complex environmental issues. Her contributions are important for understanding the implications of pollution on marine life and informing strategies for mitigating its effects.
37) Rama:
Rama likely signifies the collaboration of experts in environmental sciences, strengthening the study's findings. The collective expertise allows for comprehensive assessments and targeted interventions regarding heavy metal pollution in aquatic habitats.
38) Nadu:
Nadu refers to its usage in Tamil Nadu, indicating the local terrain and cultural significance related to the coast and fishing practices. The region's specific challenges with pollution necessitate tailored research and policy responses focused on sustainability and environmental health.
39) Ship:
Ship in this context relates to the oil spill incident that spurred the research. Such accidents illustrate the vulnerabilities of marine ecosystems to pollution and necessitate continued monitoring and research to mitigate impacts on fish populations and local communities.