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Spatial variability in selenium and mercury interactions in a key recreational fish species: Implications for human health and environmental monitoring
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-26, 07:18 authored by Jones, HJ, Butler, ECV, Catriona MacLeodCatriona MacLeodSelenium's (Se) protective effects against mercury (Hg) toxicity have been demonstrated; however, this is seldom considered in health assessments, where dietary exposure is still evaluated by Hg concentration alone. Se:Hg ratios and selenium health benefit values (Se HBVs) offer a more comprehensive seafood safety model. Here we describe total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) and Se concentrations in fish from a Hg-polluted estuary. Spatial variation in THg, MeHg and Se was evident, though all regions maintained Se:Hg ratio values >1. Se HBV varied between regions and in one region mean negative values (5.17) were evident. This study provides the first evidence that quoting a single all-encompassing Se HBV is not appropriate when species demonstrate strong site fidelity. It highlights the need for research into Se‚Äö-Hg relationships in environments with established Hg pollution and reinforces the assertion that Se concentration be considered in assessments of human health risk to Hg exposure.
History
Publication title
Marine Pollution BulletinVolume
74Article number
1Number
1Pagination
231-236ISSN
0025-326XPublication status
- Published
Rights statement
Copyright 2013 ElsevierRepository Status
- Restricted