Heavy Metals Analysis in Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Channa striata (Bloch, 1793) from Poondi Lake, Tamil Nadu, India

This study investigated the contamination levels of heavy metals—chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb)—in the muscle, liver, and gills of two fish species, Oreochromis niloticus (omnivorous) and Channa striata (carnivorous), collected from Poondi Lake, Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. The primary objective of this study is to assess the contamination levels of selected heavy metals (Chromium, Copper, and Lead) in different organs (muscle, liver, and gills) of the fish species Oreochromis niloticus (omnivorous) and Channa striata (carnivorous), considering their feeding behavior and ecological roles.The results revealed high accumulation of chromium, particularly in the muscle tissues, with concentrations exceeding WHO safety limits. In contrast, copper and lead levels were found to be within permissible limits. O. niloticus exhibited higher metal accumulation compared to C. striata, likely due to differences in feeding behavior and ecological roles. These findings highlight the potential health risks associated with the consumption of contaminated fish and underscore the importance of regular environmental monitoring and effective pollution control measures.