Bioaccumulation markers and biochemical responses in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) raised under different environmental conditions

Site- and season-specific biochemical responses and bioaccumulations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were analysed in tissues from sea bass raised under four different environmental conditions and sampled in April and July. Samples were analysed for condition factor (CF), liver somatic index (LSI), glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity, and glycogen and lactate contents. Results showed the presence of PCBs and DDTs, with site- and season-specific variations in its concentrations. CFs did not differ significantly, while LSIs in samples from two of the four sites decreased between April and July. GST activities were lower in samples with higher concentrations of PCBs and DDTs. Lactate and glycogen contents were influenced to a greater extent by the season than by levels of contamination. The study demonstrated that farming methods could play a crucial role in both health status and bioaccumulation of OC compounds in farmed sea bass.