Integrated use of histological and ultrastructural biomarkers for assessing mercury pollution in piranhas (Serrasalmus rhombeus) from the Amazon mining region

- MUCC is a protected area known for encompasses the largest mineral reserve in the world.
- The local geology and hidrology have favor Hg entry in Itacaiúnas River.
- THg concentrations in the bottom sediment did not represent risks to the aquatic biota from Itacaiúnas River.
- Histological changes suggest a biological damage degree of the Itacaiúnas River.
- Histological and ultrastructural biomarkers provide reliable data for assessement aquatic ecossistems pollution.