Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) residues in marine fishes available in Coimbatore market and their suitability for human consumption

Abstract

Seven species of marine fishes totalling 732 individuals caught at Cochin and Rameshwaram coasts, and sold in Ukkadam fish market. Coimbatore between October 2004 and October 2006 were analysed for residues of 32 individual congeners, including six indicator PCBs (PCB 28, 52, 101, 138, 153 and 180) with Gas Chromatograph coupled with Mass Selective Detector. Fishes included in the present study are Indian Mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta), Japanese Threadfin Bream (Nemipterus japonicus), Oil Sardine (Sardinela Iongiceps), Great Barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), Malabar Travelly (Carangoides malabaricus), Tongue Sole (Cyanoglossus macrolepidotus) and King Seer (Scomberomollus commersonil)' Selection was based on human consumption (preference), commercial value and availability throughout the year in both the locations.