Heavy metal contamination in some commercial marine fishes of Pakistan

Anthropogenic activities, such as industrial discharge, cargo handling, and untreated wastewater release, have led to significant heavy metal contamination along the Karachi coastline, posing risks to marine life and human health. Current study evaluated the health risks associated with consuming five fish species (<i>Trichiurus lepturus</i>, <i>Sillago sihama</i>, <i>Acanthopagrus arabicus</i>, <i>Otolithes cuvieri</i>, and <i>Nemipterus japonicus</i>) by analysing muscle tissues for arsenic, chromium, copper, and nickel accumulation. <i>Nemipterus japonicus</i> and <i>Otolithes cuvieri</i> exhibited hazard index (HI) values greater than 1, indicating potential non-carcinogenic risks to adults, particularly due to high arsenic levels. Other species were deemed safe for consumption. Present study emphasises the need for further investigation into contamination sources and recommends regular monitoring of heavy metal levels to mitigate health risks from fish consumption.