Assessment of heavy metal concentration in arothron stellatus from Tharuvaikulam fish landing (Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu): a food safety concern for local fisherman

Abstract

Heavy metals pose a significant threat to fish and human health, causing bioaccumulation and biomagnification in marine food chains. The starry puffer fish Arothron stellatus, commonly caught by local fishermen in Thoothukudi district, is consumed only in its muscle tissue due to the presence of the toxic compound tetrodotoxin. This study investigated the heavy metal accumulation in Arothron stellatus muscle tissue, revealing elevated levels of lead (7.24 mg/kg), cadmium (0.23 mg/kg), and copper (4.45 mg/kg). Zinc, an essential element, was also detected but is not a concern due to its non-toxic nature. Lead concentrations surpass safe limits, while cadmium levels teeter on the brink of danger. The presence of lead and cadmium, however, raises health concerns for consumers, highlighting the need for regular monitoring of heavy metal levels in marine species. This study sounds a warning bell for food safety and highlights the urgent need for vigilant monitoring and consumer education to mitigate the risks associated with consuming this potentially poisonous fish.