Background and purpose: Heavy metals are non-degradable pollutants that could accumulate in marine animals including fish. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of six heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, Cd and Hg) in edible tissue of Caspian carp (Cyprinus Carpio). We also studied the bioaccumulation factor (BFA) and target hazard quotients (THQ) of this fish in the southern Iranian Caspian Sea coast. Materials and methods: Twenty eight samples of fish were collected from seine and trawl during winter and spring 2010. Heavy metals were prepared (using Freeze dryer) by digestion and extraction process and then analyzed using atomic absorption equipped with flame, graphite and cold vapor system. Results: Results showed that Zinc (185±57) and Cu (3.68±0.30) µg/g.dw were seen more amongst the contaminants in the edible tissue of the Caspian carp. Concentration of Hg was 0.50±0.17 µg/g.dw and levels of Cd and Pb were below the limit of detection. BAF of metals were Zn> Cu> Hg. Conclusion: Ni, Cd and Pb in the Caspian carp muscle were lower that standard levels, but concentration of Hg was higher than the standard levels recommended by WHO, and ERL and ERM limits.

Keywords: Heavy metals pollutants, bioaccumulation, Target hazard quotients, Caspian crap

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