Metal concentrations in demersal fish species from Santa Maria Bay, Baja California Sur, Mexico (Pacific coast)

• Trace metal toxicity in fishes of Santa Maria Bay (Baja California State), Mexico.
• Presence of metals above permissible limit.
• Identifying the enrichment pattern of trace metals and its association.
• Natural and external input of metals in bay.

Concentrations of 11 trace metals (Fe, Mn, Cr, Cu, Ni, Co, Pb, Zn, Cd, As, Hg) in 40 fish species from Santa Maria Bay, Baja California Sur, Mexico, the strategically important area for marine mammals and organisms were analyzed. Based on their concentrations the ranking of metals Fe > Zn > Ni > Cr > Mn > Pb > Cu > Co > As > Cd > Hg suggests that organism size, metabolism and feeding habits are correlated with metal concentrations. Local geological formations affect the concentrations of different metals in the aquatic environment and are subsequently transferred to fishes. The correlation analysis suggests that metabolism and nurturing habits impact the concentration of metals. Concentrations of Fe and Mn appear to be influenced by scavenging and absorption processes, which vary by species. The considerable variability in the metal concentrations obtained in different species underscores the importance of regular monitoring.

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