Sex-based Differences in Fatty Acids and Macro Elements Composition in Garfish, European Barracuda and Anglerfish from Aegean Sea, Türkiye

Abstract

Background: Fish, owing to its nutritional attributes, serves as a pivotal component of a wholesome diet. The constituents found in fish, specifically macroelements and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), play a crucial role in promoting human health. This study investigates the fatty acid profiles and macro element contents of economically significant fish species, including garfish (Belone belone), European barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena) and anglerfish (Lophius piscatorius), with a specific focus on gender-based differences. The research addresses a notable gap in existing literature, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the nutritional quality of these species. Methods: In February 2023, marine fish species, were obtained from the Aegean Sea located between the western and southwestern shores of Türkiye and the eastern shores of Greece. A total of fifteen samples, representing each fish species and gender within the sampling area, were collected for the analysis of fatty acids and macro elements. Result: The findings of this study indicate that, regardless of fish species and gender, the major fatty acids in the SFAs, MUFAs and PUFAs classes were palmitic (C16:0), oleic (C18:1n-9) and DHA (C22:6n-3), respectively. The examined species in this study exhibit average macro element levels. While PUFA, EPA and DHA values meet target levels of content for human health and quality food consumption, achieving these levels minimally implies that the studied species lack a rich fatty acid profile compared to those in prior research. Nonetheless, it is concluded that monitoring seasonal variations is essential for a comprehensive understanding of their fatty acid composition.