Comparative studies of some trace metals in Tilapian spp. from lake Mariut, Egypt

Abstract EN

The trace metals (Fe , Zn, Cu, Mn, Pb , Ni and Cd) in four Tilapian species (Oreochromis niloticus (Linn.), O.

aureus (Steind.), Tilapia zillii (Gerv.) and Sarotherodon galilaeus (Art.) were analyzed from three basins of Lake Mariut (the main lake, southwestern and southeastern basins) .

The data reflect the degree of pollution rate in each basin .

The accumulation rate of different metals in different tissues of species was Fe > Zn > Cu > Mn, respectively.

On the basis of these results, the trace metal contents in the muscles, liver and gonads were discussed.

All Tilapian spp.

sampled are able to accumulate these metals in low concentrations in the muscle.

The relationship between metal accumulation and body length for all species was linear.

The concentration factor (C .F .) of zinc was higher in muscle and gonads.

The highest value of C.F.

for copper was calculated in liver.

The relationship between these concentrations in muscle.

liver and ovary was also studied in O.

niloticus with respect to females maturity.