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BIOACCUMULATION OF ORGANIC POLLUTANTS IN BLACK SEA FISH: A THREAT TO SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES
Abstract
The Black Sea ecosystem is increasingly affected by anthropogenic pressures, including the accumulation of organic pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). These contaminants,known for their persistence and toxicity, pose serious risks to marine biodiversity and food safety. The increasing presence of hydrocarbons in marine ecosystems poses a significant threat to biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. This study investigates the bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in various fish species collected from multiple stations along the Romanian Black Sea coast during the summer of 2024. Analytical results revealed detectable concentrations of PAHs (fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo[a]pyrene) and PCBs (PCB28, PCB101, PCB153) in all sampled species, with notable accumulation in Trachurus mediteraneus ponticus, Engraulis encrasicolus and Sprattus sprattus. The highest total hydrocarbon loads were recorded in specimens from Porti?a and Costine?ti, with naphthalene and PCB153 showing elevated levels exceeding 7 g/g dry weight in some cases. These findings highlight species-specific and location-dependent bioaccumulation patterns, suggesting chronic exposure and potential trophic transfer. The presence of persistent organic pollutants in commercially important fish underscores the need for mitigation strategies to safeguard marine food webs and ensure the sustainability of regional fisheries.
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References8
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