The influence of feed supply time on the fatty acid profile of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on a diet enriched with n-3 fatty acids

The purpose of the study was to examine the fatty acid profiles of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) submitted to different feeding times (0, 10, 20 and 30 days) on a diet enriched with n-3 fatty acids, by addition of flaxseed oil in substitution for sunflower oil. The main fatty acids detected were palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:0), oleic (C18:1n9), linoleic (C18:2n6) and -linolenic (C18:3n3) in all the treatments. The 30 day-fed fish presented the best values for total n-3 fatty acids, with a prominence of -linolenic acids, showing that the flaxseed oil as well as the feed supply time influenced the fatty acid profiles.     

Influences of sex and seasons on levels of heavy metals in tissues of green tiger shrimp (Penaeus semisulcatus de Hann, 1844)

Seasonal changes in heavy metal (Ag, Cr, Ni, Pb, Cu, Fe, Zn) concentrations in muscle, gill, hepatopancreas and gonad tissues of both male and female green tiger shrimp (Penaeus semisulcatus) from Iskenderun Bay (Northern East Mediterranean Sea, Turkey) were measured for a year period by using ICP-AES. The relationships in various heavy metal concentrations in organs were compared according to sex and seasons. Heavy metal content varied with type of metals, seasons and sex. Accumulations also differed significantly in certain organs. Metal concentrations (as μg g⁻¹ w.w.) were highest in male gonads whereas lowest in the muscle of all shrimp species. From the human consumption point of view, heavy metal concentrations except for copper in male and female green tiger shrimp’s muscle were below the admissible limits. Thus, precautions should be taken on account of higher content of heavy metals as well as in other organs that could be affected by industrial pollution.