The effect of metals on condition and pathologies of European eel (Anguilla anguilla): In situ and laboratory experiments

► We examine 49 wild eels for metals loading, condition, and diseases prevalence. ► We examine young eels exposed to Fe, Cu, and pathogens under laboratory conditions. ► Increasing total length and body weight will increase metal load in wild eel. ► Increasing metal hepatic load will decrease value of condition indices in wild eel. ► Co-exposure to pathogens and metals increases mortality of eel by infectious diseases.