Systematic review of mercury contamination in aquatic organisms of Sepetiba Bay, RJ, Brazil

Abstract

Sepetiba Bay is an ecologically and economically significant lagoon for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. However, the development of this region has been linked to numerous environmental contaminations, leading to the accumulation of trace metals across various ecosystems. Mercury is particularly concerned for public health due to its propensity to bioaccumulate and biomagnify in marine organisms, subsequently entering the human body through consuming contaminated fish. Six studies were identified, with their findings indicating that mercury concentrations in fish from Sepetiba Bay do not exceed the maximum limits set by national legislation (Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency) and the World Health Organization. This systematic review sought to compile research related to mercury contamination in fish from Sepetiba Bay between 2000 and 2024, following the PRISMA-P protocol. A total of six studies were selected, with an additional 27 articles included because of their relevance in understanding the feeding habits of fish, bringing the total to 33 articles. Our findings suggest that, despite the low risk to human consumption, there is a need for the development of public policies focused on the continuous monitoring and control of mercury contamination in the bay’s fish, intending to decontaminate the environment and prevent a progressive increase in mercury levels in species that constitute a significant part of the local diet.