Bioaccumulation and Distribution of Heavy Metals in Muscle, Gill, and Liver Tissues of Coptodon rendalli from local fish markets of Nashik Maharashtra

Fish is an important protein source globally and is widely consumed in Nashik, Maharashtra, India. This study quantified cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn) in the muscle, liver and gill tissues of Coptodon rendalli obtained from local fish markets using acid digestion followed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Metal concentrations (mg/kg wet weight) were compared with the maximum limits set by the European Commission, FAO/WHO and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. Mn, Ni and Zn were detected in all organs, whereas Cd was not detected in any organ and Pb was detected only in gills at low levels. All measured concentrations were below the relevant regulatory limits. Non‑carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks were evaluated using estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI) and target cancer risk (TR). THQ and HI values were <1 and TR for Pb was below 10⁻⁶, indicating no significant non‑carcinogenic or carcinogenic risk for consumers under the assumed exposure scenario.