The relevance of temporal and organ specific factors on metals accumulation and biochemical effects in feral fish (Liza aurata) under a moderate contamination scenario

Moderate contamination scenarios are nowadays challenging ecotoxicologists. An investigative biomonitoring study was performed under those environmental conditions (Óbidos lagoon, Portugal) focused on oxidative stress and accumulated metals in Liza aurata liver and kidney, also examining winter–summer variations and organ-specificities. Three sites were surveyed: Barrosa; Bom-Sucesso; Middle lagoon. The higher metal availability at Barrosa (in water and sediment) was reflected in both organ burdens, though liver was more responsive. Oxidative stress (both organs) pointed to a pro-oxidant challenge at Barrosa (both seasons), reinforced by a general stress index. In winter, oxidative stress at Barrosa was related with accumulated metals in both organs, while in summer this cause–effect relationship was only established for kidney since changes in liver were linked with non-contaminant related variables. Winter–summer variations were outstanding in liver and kidney oxidative stress endpoints, pointing to the relevance of considering distinct seasons and organs in the assessment of moderately contaminated systems.