Review of metal concentration in Sardina pilchardus: Insights from the seas and oceans

Abstract

16 articles, meeting stringent criteria, were selected from 71 initially identified articles. Data on metal concentrations in Sardina pilchardus muscle were extracted, focusing on Al, As, B, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn, as well as vital macro and micronutrients. Exclusions encompassed non-indexed or non-peer-reviewed journals and studies lacking species names or specimen origin clarity. The Adriatic and Marmara Seas presented significant variations in metal concentrations, attributed to environmental, geographical, and anthropogenic influences. The Aegean Sea showed lower metal concentrations but remained a concern due to multiple anthropogenic sources. In the Mediterranean, disparities between Algeria and Morocco highlighted geological and anthropogenic influences. Variances in the Atlantic Ocean between the Canary Islands and the Azores reflected differing levels of human activity and natural processes.