Concentrations of Cd, Cu and Zn in the Fish Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus Caught from a Kelana Jaya Pond

Kelana Jaya Ponds are typical aquatic ecosystems of great importance with regard to biodiversity and aesthetic value in urban areas of Peninsular Malaysia. Concentrations of Cd, Cu and Zn were determined in the edible flesh (muscles), scales and gills of the fish tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus caught at one of the ponds in Kelana Jaya. The ranges of mean concentrations of metals (µg/g dry weight) in the fish were Cd: 2.42, 3.95 and 4.48; Cu: 1.98, 3.78 and 2.89 and Zn: 58.4, 71.1 and 80.5, in the muscles, scales and gills, respectively. Generally, scales and gills showed higher metal concentrations than muscles. Although the lake is thought to receive semi- untreated domestic wastes and dumping, the results of these metals (especially in the edible part of the fish) did not exceed the permissible limits for human consumption for fish product. Therefore, this should not pose health problems for consumers of the tilapia species but further intensive studies are warranted.