Long-Term Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Sprat (Sprattus sprattus) from the Romanian Black Sea: Ecological and Human Health Risks in the Context of Sustainable Fisheries

This study evaluates the heavy metals concentrations in sprat (Sprattus sprattus, Linnaeus, 1758) from the Romanian Black Sea, assessing both ecological implications and human health risks associated with consumption. Using long-term data spanning 1994–2019, levels of copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) in dorsal muscle tissues were analyzed to identify contamination trends and episodic pollution events. Although most concentrations remained below regulatory thresholds, occasional exceedances of Cd and Pb suggest intermittent pollution inputs. Health risks were assessed using dietary indices including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total hazard quotient (TTHQ), and carcinogenic risk index (CRI). Findings indicate that, under current exposure levels, regular sprat consumption poses minimal risk. However, prolonged intake during peak contamination periods may contribute to cumulative toxic effects, with implications for ecosystem stability and food safety. Given the persistence of heavy metals and their interactions with co-occurring pollutants, such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), ongoing monitoring remains essential. This study supports the development of sustainable environmental policies aimed at protecting marine biodiversity and consumer health in the Black Sea region.