Publication Date
Spring 2025
Presentation Length
Poster/Gallery presentation
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Biology, Department of
Student Level
Undergraduate
SPARK Category
Research
Faculty Advisor
Ross Andrew
SPARK Session
10:15-11:45 Poster/Gallery - Beaman
Presentation Type
Poster
Summary
Mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems is a pressing environmental and public health concern, particularly in urban areas where industrial runoff and wastewater contribute to heavy metal accumulation. This study investigates mercury presence in fish from Richland Creek in Nashville, TN, by analyzing histological changes in liver and muscle tissues. Mercury bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains, potentially leading to physiological damage in fish and posing health risks to humans who consume contaminated seafood. While prior research has established mercury’s toxic effects, there is a need for localized studies assessing its presence in urban waterways. The hope is to find histological abnormalities in liver and muscle tissues, such as cellular degeneration and inflammation, indicative of mercury toxicity. Future analysis using atomic absorption spectroscopy is expected to confirm measurable levels of mercury in these tissues, correlating with observed damage. By identifying contamination patterns and potential health risks, this study aims to contribute to ongoing efforts in pollution management and environmental conservation.
Recommended Citation
Cockrill, Indy L. and Andrew, Ross, "Investigating Mercury Contamination in Urban Fish: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and Histological Analysis for Environmental and Human Health" (2025). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 100.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/100
Included in
Animals Commons, Environmental Health and Protection Commons, Environmental Public Health Commons, Tissues Commons, Toxicology Commons
