External authors:

• Stephanny Curaz-Leiva ( Universidad de Concepcion , Universidad de Playa Ancha , Universitat d'Alacant )
• Maria Jose Diaz ( Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso , Universidad de Playa Ancha )
• Jhoel Ruiz ( Universidad de Valparaiso )
• Macarena Perez ( Universidad de Playa Ancha )
• Daniel Gonzalez-Labra ( Universidad de Playa Ancha , Universitat d'Alacant )
• Brittany Paredes-Ocaranza ( Universidad de Playa Ancha , Universitat d'Alacant )
• M. Gabriela Lobos ( Universidad de Valparaiso )
• Celine Lavergne ( Universidad de Playa Ancha , CSIC - Instituto de Ciencias del Mar (ICM) )
• Sebastian A. Klarian ( Universidad Andres Bello , University of Connecticut )
• Veronica Molina ( Universidad de Concepcion , Universidad de Playa Ancha )
• Claudio A. Saez ( Universidad de Playa Ancha , Universitat d'Alacant )

Abstract:

Although Quintero-Puchuncav & iacute; Bay, Chile, is a coastal area historically known to be subject to multiple industrial pressures, few studies have focused on the associated risks to marine ecosystems and, through edible species, to human health. We studied concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb, V, Zn, and Hg in marine species and sediments from Quintero-Puchuncav & iacute; Bay and a reference site. Results were compared with seafood safety guidelines, and target hazard quotients (THQs) were evaluated. Sediments and biota from the impacted area generally exhibited higher metal concentrations. Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) levels were the highest across all species, particularly in crustaceans, reflecting both physiological requirements and anthropogenic inputs. Cadmium (Cd) concentrations were higher in pelagic species from the impacted bay, but no differences were found in sediments or benthic species, suggesting the influence of upwelling conditions. Comparison with seafood safety guidelines revealed that Cd and Pb concentrations exceeded permissible limits in crabs, fish, and mussel species, and THQ >= 1 values were found for Cd concentrations in benthic species from the impacted bay, highlighting potential risks to consumers. The absence of permissible thresholds for certain environmentally relevant metals in Chilean regulations underscores the need to align with international standards, certainly to protect coastal ecosystems and human health.