Seasonal variations in proximate and elemental composition of pearl oyster (Pinctada radiata,Leach, 1814)

Pearl oysters (Pinctada radiata) were investigated for proximate and elemental composition throughout the year. Oysters were collected bimonthly by hand during scuba diving from the Gulf of Antalya. Ranges of dry matter, protein, fat and ash contents were 144.7–209.8, 65.9–160.4, 4.3–10.9 and 4.6–27.0 g kg^?1, respectively. While the highest protein and fat values were found in the summer months, the highest dry matter and ash contents were found in the winter months. The highest element contents were found in the spring and autumn months. Cadmium and zinc were found to be over the legislative limits, while copper was below, throughout year. The highest concentration among the elements was obtained for zinc. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry