TitleEffects of clam size on heavy metal accumulation in whole soft tissues of Galatea paradoxa (Born, 1778) from the Volta estuary, Ghana
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2009
AuthorsAmisah, S, Adjei-Boateng, D, Obirikorang, KA, Quagrainie, KK
JournalInternational Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Volume1
Issue2
Pagination14 - 21
Date Published2009
KeywordsGalatea paradoxa, Heavy metals, size classes, volta estuary
Abstract

The Volta basin clam, Galatea paradoxa, is collected for food and remains an important affordable protein source for the riparian communities in the catchment. Clams accumulate metals in their soft tissues, which can be toxic to humans when consumed. A study was, therefore, carried out to examine the concentrations of Mn, Zn, Fe and Hg in G. paradoxa, at 3 different size classes: small (20 - 40 mm), medium (41 – 60 mm) and large (>60 mm) at Ada and Aveglo in the Volta estuary area in Ghana. The concentrations of heavy metals in the clams varied considerably between the two locations. There were, however, no significant differences (p > 0.05) in Mn, Fe and Zn concentrations among the different size classes, indicating a similar bioavailability of the metals at both locations and, possibly, an efficient metabolism to keep the concentrations of Mn, Fe and Zn relatively similar. Mercury concentrations in the Ada clams varied significantly (p < 0.05) among the different size classes. A Risk Analysis indicated that the concentrations of heavy metals in the clams were within acceptable limits and safe for human consumption.

URLhttp://www.researchgate.net/publication/202401887_Effect_of_clam_size_on_heavy_metal_accumulation_in_whole_soft_tissues_of_Galatea_paradoxa_(Born_1778)_from_the_Volta_estuary_Ghana/file/d912f5138904d96207.pdf
Notice of Publication Number

NOP 09-A04 (English)