Overview of Chemicals in Mississippi River Fish
In 2019, Mississippi River fish are a potential food source for many people. However, the presence of certain toxic chemicals in the water have raised concerns about safety. This article will provide an overview of the chemicals that river fish are exposed to and their potential impacts on human health.
The Mississippi River has been dealing with historical pollution problems for decades, as a variety of chemicals and industrial pollutants have been released into the river. Many of these pollutants, such as PCBs and mercury, bioaccumulate in fish and other animals. The accumulation leads to a higher concentration of these toxic substances in larger, predatory fish.
Mercury is a common pollutant found in the Mississippi River. A 2017 survey of thirteen Mississippi River tributaries found mercury concentrations in some fish samples ranging from 0.005 – 0.175 milligrams per kilogram. Exposure to elevated mercury levels may cause neurological and immunological damage, particularly in fetuses and young children.
Polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, are also found in Mississippi River fish. In 2009, the EPA conducted a survey of fish from the main stem of the Mississippi River. They reported PCB concentrations ranging from 0.378 – 1.25 milligrams per kilogram. Studies have linked high levels of PCBs to an increased risk of developing various forms of cancer.
In addition to mercury and PCBs, there are a number of other potentially toxic substances present in the Mississippi River, such as DDT, dioxins, and hexachlorocyclohexane. It is important to note that the concentration of these substances may vary from one river tributary to another.
Given the presence of these pollutants in the Mississippi River, it is important to undertake appropriate measures when considering harvesting and consuming its fish. Fisheries experts recommend that people limit their intake of large, predatory species, such as largemouth bass, because they are likely to have higher concentrations of bioaccumulated contaminants.
Session 2
Identifying and Measuring Contaminants in Fish
Many people are concerned about potential contaminants in the fish they consume. In order to identify and measure the concentration of contaminants in fish, it is important to have a good understanding of the water system you are fishing in.
First, it is essential to gather information about local water quality. The EPA has developed an online tool called Water Quality Criteria (WQC) to provide information about water contaminants on a state by state basis. This tool can provide useful information about levels of contaminants in your local area.
Once contaminant levels have been identified, it is then necessary to measure the levels in the fish itself. Ana
