An evaluation of fish and invertebrate mercury concentrations in the Caribbean Region

• DOI: 10.1007/s10646-024-02754-y
• Publication Date: 2024-06-05T12:15:55Z
• Authors: Linroy D. Christian; Mark E. H. Burton; Azad Mohammed; Wendy Nelson; Tahlia Ali Shah; Laël Bertide-Josiah; Helen G. Yurek; David C. Evers
• Keywords: Mercury

Mercury is a ubiquitous pollutant of global concern but the threat exposure not homogenously distributed at local, regional, or scales. The primary route human to mercury through consumption aquatic foods, which are culturally and economically important in wider Caribbean Region, especially for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). We compiled more than 1600 samples 108 unique species fish invertebrates collected between 2005 2023 from eleven countries territories Region. There was wide variability total concentrations with 55% below 0.23 µg/g wet weight (ww) guideline U.S. FDA/EPA (2022) 2 3 weekly servings 26% exceeding 0.46 ww consistent adverse effects on health continual consumption, particularly sensitive populations. Significant relationships were found taxonomic family, sampling country, length, trophic level. data analyzed here support need further concrete geospatial better understand patterns mechanisms allow informed decision making Region as well supporting efforts evaluate effectiveness national, international policies.