Analysis of Heavy Metal Contents in Litopenaeus vannamei and Metapenaeus monoceros Cultivated Within Selected Aquaculture establishments in Kerala

Abstract

This study investigated the concentrations of heavy metals in two species of prawns (Litopenaeus vannamei and Metapenaeus monoceros) cultured in aquaculture farms in Kerala, India. A total of 22 samples were analyzed for the presence of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg). The findings showed that the hepatopancreas of prawns had different amounts of heavy metal pollution, with Cd and Hg being the most prominent. The quantities of Cd and Hg were higher than safety standards, indicating possible health concerns associated with eating contaminated prawns, even if Pb levels were within allowable limits. This study examines how these findings may affect environmental management and food safety in aquaculture environments. The statistical data assessments and the real data results were aligned, revealing exactly the same.