Bioaccumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metalsin Labeo rohita and Mystus seenghala from Jhelum River,Punjab, Pakistan

New Research Article Published in Water (Impact Factor: 3.0)

Aquatic Sciences: Q1 (Cite Score) / Water Resources: Q2 (JCR)

The bioaccumulation of trace elements and heavy metals in aquatic organisms is a critical environmental concern due to its potential impact on ecosystem health and human safety. This study investigated the level of trace elements and heavy metals bioaccumulation in Labeo rohita and Mystus seenghala from the River Jhelum in the district Khushab, Punjab, Pakistan. The concentration of calcium, magnesium, iron, nickel, copper, arsenic, cadmium, zinc, chromium, manganese, cobalt, and lead in the gills, liver, and muscle tissues of these fih was measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Then, the extent of contamination and its possible health risks were assayed. Our fidings indicate signifiant variations in the elemental and metal concentrations among different organs and between species, reflcting their diverse feeding habits and habitats. The health risk assessment based on the estimated daily intake, estimated weekly intake, maximum permissible intake, target hazard quotient, hazard index or total target hazard quotient, health risk index, and target cancer risk revealed potential risks to human consumers of these fih. This study emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring, as new data and insights are crucial for understanding and mitigating these risks. Strict regulatory measures are also necessary to safeguard public health and preserve the ecosystem of Jhelum River.