Bioaccumulation of metals in muscle tissues of economically important fish species from black sea Lagoon lakes in Türkiye: Consumer health risk and nutritional value assessment

This study is the first comprehensive investigation into the levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the muscle tissues of various fish species ( Carassius gibelio, , Squalis cephalus, , Esox lucius, , and Tinca tinca) ) in Lagoon Lakes Akgo<spacing diaeresis>l and Semenit (LLAS), Samsun, T & uuml;rkiye. A multidisciplinary approach was employed, integrating elemental analysis, health risk assessment, and source identification techniques to evaluate the distribution, sources, and health risks of PTE contamination in fish. The mean concentrations of toxic and trace elements (mu g/ kg) were determined in ascending order: Cd (5) G Co (8) G Cr (18) = Pb (18) G Ni (66) G As (163) G Cu (290) G Mn (798) G Fe (6150) G Zn (6250). In contrast, the concentrations of macro elements are provided in units of mg/kg, as follows: Mg (391) G Na (677) G Ca (1698) G P (2314) G K (3837), with notable variations across species. Health risk assessment methodologies indicated that PTE levels in fish muscle tissues generally fell below regulatory limits, indicating their safety for consumption. Noncarcinogenic risk assessment further documented the safety of consuming these fish species, with elevated maximum safe consumption quantity (MSCQ) values observed for all metals. In addition, the estimated daily intake of PTEs was found to be below reference doses, confirming the safety of consumption. Esox lucius demonstrated a highest abundance of essential nutrients (e.g., Ca, K, Mg, and P). Source identification techniques indicated that residential waste, lithogenic materials, and agricultural practices are significant contributors to PTE contamination. Overall, this research stresses the importance of monitoring PTE levels in fish, ensuring food safety and protect human health.