Characterization of Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Transplanted Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and Surface Sediments from the Coastal Region of Nemrut Bay, Eastern Aegean Sea

Caged mussels enable biomonitoring investigations due to their tendency to absorb contaminants in industrial zones. This study aimed to investigate the levels of seven indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (i7PCB) congeners in the biomonitoring organism Mytillus galloprovincialis over two years (2016–2018) after transplantation from three stations in the Eastern Aegean Sea industrial zone. Additionally, i7PCBs were found in Nemrut Bay’s surface sediments. The highest PCB level was found at Site 5 located near a petroleum refinery of the Petkim Port. According to sediment quality criteria, PCB levels at Sites 1, 4, 5, and 6 may have an adverse biological impact. PCB concentrations varied among samples; congeners 28, 153, 101, and 118 were most prevalent in sediments, whereas congeners 138, 153, 101, and 118 were most prevalent in mussels. i7PCB concentrations were below the maximum residual levels permitted in fishery products. In addition, calculations of the hazard ratio and estimated daily intake show no potential negative impacts from PCB exposure. Significantly positive correlations appeared between PCB (28, 52, 101, 118) levels and the condition index of the mussels. The highest amounts of ∑i7PCB in mussels were identified in September 2016 at Site 2 and in October 2017 at Site 1. Industrialization around the Port of Nemrut had a harmful impact on Sites 1 and 2. Preventing marine pollution plays a key role in ensuring the sustainability of marine living resources and sustainable coastal management.