Metal concentrations in coastal sharks from The Bahamas with a focus on the Caribbean Reef shark.

摘要: Over the last century anthropogenic activities have rapidly increased influx of metals and metalloids entering marine environment, which can bioaccumulate biomagnify in top consumers. This may elicit sublethal effects on target organisms, having broad implications for human seafood We provide first assessment metal (Cd, Pb, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, As, Ag, THg) metalloid (As) concentrations muscle tissue coastal sharks from The Bahamas. A total 36 individual six species were evaluated, spanning two regions/study areas, with a focus Caribbean reef shark (Carcharhinus perezi), to lesser extent tiger (Galeocerdo cuvier). is due their high relative abundance ecological significance throughout Bahamian regional ecosystems. exhibited some highest compared five other species, peaks Cu observed as individuals reached sexual maturity. Observations attributed foraging larger, more piscivorous prey, longevity, well potential slowing rate growth. correlations between metals, are challenging interpret but be trophic level ambient conditions. Our results account sharks, suggesting exhibit potentially cause effects. Finally, these findings underscore toxicity meat significant