Scyliorhinus canicula (Linnaeus, 1758) metal accumulation: A public health concern for Atlantic fish consumers?

One of the most landed sharks in Portuguese fisheries is the lesser-spotted dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula), which is ever-present in Portuguese fish markets and consumed as cheap fish protein source. The focus of this study was to evaluate element contamination in consumed tissues of Atlantic S. canicula, with the intent of safeguarding possible public health issues. A total of 74 specimens were analysed for metals and metalloids in the deeper white muscle and skin. Arsenic, zinc, iron and aluminium were the elements with higher mean values. There was a tendency for higher levels in the skin, with differences between life-stage and gender. Many individuals surpassed stipulated guideline limits for mercury and arsenic, posing a risk for human consumption (according to the health risk assessment performed for the average Portuguese fish consumption) or even for use in feed production. Besides the public health concern, this study also evidences troubling signs on marine contamination status.