Cristian Vodopivez - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Cristian Vodopivez

Research paper thumbnail of Registro continuo de parametros fisico - quimicos superficiales en mares antarticos. Primera parte : mar de weddell

Research paper thumbnail of Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil and surface marine sediment near Jubany Station (Antarctica). Role of permafrost as a low-permeability barrier

Science of The Total Environment, Sep 1, 2007

Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growi... more Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growing tourist and fisheries activities as well as scientific operations and their related logistic support are responsible for an increasing level of pollutants in this fragile environment. Soils and coastal sediments are significantly affected near scientific stations particularly by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In this work sediment and soil were sampled in two consecutive summer Antarctic expeditions at Potter Cove and peninsula, in the vicinity of Jubany Station (South Shetland Islands). Two- and 3-ring PAHs (methylnaphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene and anthracene) were the main compounds found in most sites, although total PAH concentrations showed relatively low levels compared with other human-impacted areas in Antarctica. Pattern distribution of PAHs observed in samples suggested that low-temperature combustion processes such as diesel motor combustion and open-field garbage burning are the main sources of these compounds. An increase in PAH concentrations was observed from surface to depth into the active soil layer except for a unique sampling site where a fuel spill had been recently reported and where an inverted PAH concentration gradient was observed. The highest level was detected in the upper layer of permafrost followed by a sharp decrease in depth, showing this layer is acting as a barrier for downward PAH migration. When PAH levels in soil from both sampling programs were compared a significant decrease (p<0.01) was observed in summer 2005 (range at 75-cm depth: 12+/-1-153+/-22 ng/g) compared to summer 2004 (range at 75-cm depth: 162+/-15-1182+/-113 ng/g) whereas concentrations in surface sediment collected nearby the station PAHs increased drastically in 2005 (range: 36+/-3-1908+/-114 ng/g) compared to 2004 (range: 28+/-3-312+/-24 ng/g). Precipitation regime and water run off suggest that an important wash out of soil-PAHs occurred during the interval time between samplings. Results showed that the present PAH contamination level of Jubany Station is relatively low compared to other reported cases in Antarctica but also suggests that an increase in rain and in thawing processes caused by the global warming could result in an important soil-associated PAH mobilization with unpredictable consequences for the biota of Potter Cove.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in Antarctic organisms

Polar Biology, Jan 16, 1997

To evaluate levels of essential (zinc and copper) and non-essential (mercury and cadmium) heavy m... more To evaluate levels of essential (zinc and copper) and non-essential (mercury and cadmium) heavy metals, 34 species of organisms from different areas close to the Antarctic Peninsula were analysed. These included algae, filter-feeders, omnivorous invertebrates and vertebrates. Mercury was not detected, while cadmium was found in the majority of organisms analysed (detection limit was 0.05 ppm for both metals). The highest cadmium concentration was observed in the starfish Odontaster validus. Anthozoans, sipunculids and nudibranchs showed maximum levels of zinc, while the highest copper level was found in the gastropod ¹rophon brevispira. Mercury and cadmium levels in fishes were below the detection limit. Concentrations of essential and non-essential metals in birds were highest in liver followed by muscle and eggs. Cadmium and mercury levels in muscle of southern elephant seals were above the detection limit, whereas in Antarctic fur seals they were below it. The objective of the study was to gather baseline information for metals in Antarctic Ocean biota that may be needed to detect, measure and monitor future environmental changes.

Research paper thumbnail of Niveles de hidrocarburos de petróleo en los alrededores del casco del buque "Bahía Paraíso", Puerto Arturo, Antártida

Research paper thumbnail of Resultados preliminares sobre el contenido de metales traza en lapas recolectadas en los alrededores de la Base Jubany (Isla 25 de Mayo, Antártida)

Research paper thumbnail of Low levels of PAHs and organotin compounds in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, Sep 1, 2021

The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presen... more The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presence in West Antarctica. The human presence, with all the activities associated such as logistic, scientific and tourism operations, represents a potential risk of chemical pollution with both, organic and inorganic contaminants. Under these conditions knowledge about the presence and levels of the main persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is essential to evaluate the environmental status of this ecologically relevant and sensitive area. In this work, which complements our previous study regarding trace elements, we performed the first regional-scale monitoring of 24 PAHs (16 of them included in EPA list of primary pollutant), and organotin compounds (OTCs:TBT, DBT and MBT) in surface sediment from 68 sites comprising six different areas in Maxwell Bay, southeast coast of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island. POPs were quantified in surface sediment samples (20-30 m depth) obtained during two summer Antarctic expeditions by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The two most anthropized areas (South Fildes and Potter Cove) showed moderated evidence of pollution for PAHs and OTC. In some sampling sites the concentration of total PAHs was higher than 100 ng/g dw, while TBT was detected in only five samples, two of them located in Potter Cove (ranged between 14 and 18 ng/g dw), and three, located in South Fildes area (ranged between 118 and 416 ng/g dw). Although POPs contamination was evidenced in some samples close to scientific stations, a pollution pattern was not clearly identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Determinacion automatica de amonio en aguas saladas

Research paper thumbnail of Registro continuo de parametros fisico-quimicos superficiales en mares antarticos. I: Mar de weddell

Research paper thumbnail of Niveles de hidrocarburos de petróleo en los alrededores del casco del buque" Bahía Paraíso", Puerto Arturo, Antártida

Research paper thumbnail of Element concentrations of environmental concern in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, 2019

Quality of sediments from the region with the greatest human presence in Western Antarctica Penin... more Quality of sediments from the region with the greatest human presence in Western Antarctica Peninsula, was evaluated. • The first data of Hg in marine sediments for the study area are reported. • Baseline levels are defined for 9 trace elements, Fe and Mn. • The Igeo/SC tool was used for the first time in many sites of the study area for the evaluation of the sediments quality. • The possible effect of iceberg scouring, ice-rafting-debris and ice calving on the composition of sediments is discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Arsenic biotargets in volcanic environments

Research paper thumbnail of Resultados preliminares sobre el contenido de metales traza en lapas recolectadas en los alrededores de la Base Jubany (Isla 25 de Mayo, Antártida)

Research paper thumbnail of Low levels of PAHs and organotin compounds in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, 2021

The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presen... more The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presence in West Antarctica. The human presence, with all the activities associated such as logistic, scientific and tourism operations, represents a potential risk of chemical pollution with both, organic and inorganic contaminants. Under these conditions knowledge about the presence and levels of the main persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is essential to evaluate the environmental status of this ecologically relevant and sensitive area. In this work, which complements our previous study regarding trace elements, we performed the first regional-scale monitoring of 24 PAHs (16 of them included in EPA list of primary pollutant), and organotin compounds (OTCs:TBT, DBT and MBT) in surface sediment from 68 sites comprising six different areas in Maxwell Bay, southeast coast of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island. POPs were quantified in surface sediment samples (20-30 m depth) obtained during two summer Antarctic expeditions by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The two most anthropized areas (South Fildes and Potter Cove) showed moderated evidence of pollution for PAHs and OTC. In some sampling sites the concentration of total PAHs was higher than 100 ng/g dw, while TBT was detected in only five samples, two of them located in Potter Cove (ranged between 14 and 18 ng/g dw), and three, located in South Fildes area (ranged between 118 and 416 ng/g dw). Although POPs contamination was evidenced in some samples close to scientific stations, a pollution pattern was not clearly identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Element concentrations of environmental concern in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, 2019

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of occurrence, bioaccumulation and molecular targets of arsenic and other selected volcanic elements in Argentinean Patagonia and Antarctic ecosystems

Science of The Total Environment, 2019

The relationship between volcanism and biota composition in Argentinean Patagonia and Antarctica ... more The relationship between volcanism and biota composition in Argentinean Patagonia and Antarctica is showed. • The highest arsenic concentration in water was related to the geothermal process on volcanoes. • As-protein bands were not detected (b0.25 μg/g) in As-accumulating species. • Hierarchical cluster analysis reveals high volcanism and low anthropic influence in these particular environments.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in sediments and soft tissues of the Antarctic clam Laternula elliptica: More evidence as a ? possible biomonitor of coastal marine pollution at high latitudes?

Science of The Total Environment, 2015

The potential of the Antarctic clam as biomonitor for heavy metals was evaluated. • Levels of Cd ... more The potential of the Antarctic clam as biomonitor for heavy metals was evaluated. • Levels of Cd and Cu in sediments were related to the contribution of the streams. • Remains of paints cause high Cr and Pb levels which are randomly detected in clam tissues. • Kidney from L. elliptica could be adequate for biomonitoring pollution with Cd and Zn.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in molted fur of the southern elephant seal Mirounga leonina

Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of Presence and Distribution of Persistent Toxic Substances in Sediments and Marine Organisms of Potter Cove, Antarctica

Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 2010

Research paper thumbnail of The use of epilithic antarctic lichens (Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antarctica) to determine deposition patterns of heavy metals in the Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Science of the Total Environment, 1997

Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U... more Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, sampled close to the Argentine scientific station 'Jubany' on '25 de Mayo' (King George) Island, in the Southern Shetland Archipelago (Antarctica). The corresponding heavy-metal levels have been measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometry, following internationally accepted analytical methods. The results obtained support the hypothesis that an atmospheric circulation of trace metals exists on the assessed area, and the activities developed at the different scientific stations located on this island would be a potential source of heavy metals to the evaluated environment. The geographical distribution of trace metals atmospherically transported in the area close to 'Jubany Station' was studied through the corresponding metal contents of the assessed lichens. Finally, the suitability of both analyzed lichen species, Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, as biological indicators for quantitative monitoring of airborne metals for this antarctic environment was recognized. 0 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.

Research paper thumbnail of Metal (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu) levels in the Antarctic fish Notothenia coriiceps

Polar Biology, Oct 31, 1998

During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were ... more During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were collected at King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, to determine the levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu in muscle, liver, gonad and kidney. Metal levels were assessed using the inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) technique. The levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu observed in both sexes of N. coriiceps were signi®cantly lower in muscle tissue than in liver, kidney and gonad; the livers of males and gonads of females had the highest levels. The dierences between the sexes were signi®cant for Zn and Mn in gonads and for Cu in liver. Despite the modest size-range of the specimens, the Cu levels in liver, muscle and kidney were signi®cantly inversely correlated with female mass (P < 0.05) as was gonad Cu level and male body length. Fe mainly presented the highest concentrations and Cu and Mn the lowest ones. Mean muscle metal levels are similar to those of hake, cod, herring and mackerel; however, the level of Fe was slightly higher. Accumulation may occur for Fe, Zn and Mn in liver, kidney and gonad, which have higher levels than those of most prey.

Research paper thumbnail of Registro continuo de parametros fisico - quimicos superficiales en mares antarticos. Primera parte : mar de weddell

Research paper thumbnail of Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil and surface marine sediment near Jubany Station (Antarctica). Role of permafrost as a low-permeability barrier

Science of The Total Environment, Sep 1, 2007

Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growi... more Although Antarctica is still considered as one of the most pristine areas of the world, the growing tourist and fisheries activities as well as scientific operations and their related logistic support are responsible for an increasing level of pollutants in this fragile environment. Soils and coastal sediments are significantly affected near scientific stations particularly by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In this work sediment and soil were sampled in two consecutive summer Antarctic expeditions at Potter Cove and peninsula, in the vicinity of Jubany Station (South Shetland Islands). Two- and 3-ring PAHs (methylnaphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene and anthracene) were the main compounds found in most sites, although total PAH concentrations showed relatively low levels compared with other human-impacted areas in Antarctica. Pattern distribution of PAHs observed in samples suggested that low-temperature combustion processes such as diesel motor combustion and open-field garbage burning are the main sources of these compounds. An increase in PAH concentrations was observed from surface to depth into the active soil layer except for a unique sampling site where a fuel spill had been recently reported and where an inverted PAH concentration gradient was observed. The highest level was detected in the upper layer of permafrost followed by a sharp decrease in depth, showing this layer is acting as a barrier for downward PAH migration. When PAH levels in soil from both sampling programs were compared a significant decrease (p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.01) was observed in summer 2005 (range at 75-cm depth: 12+/-1-153+/-22 ng/g) compared to summer 2004 (range at 75-cm depth: 162+/-15-1182+/-113 ng/g) whereas concentrations in surface sediment collected nearby the station PAHs increased drastically in 2005 (range: 36+/-3-1908+/-114 ng/g) compared to 2004 (range: 28+/-3-312+/-24 ng/g). Precipitation regime and water run off suggest that an important wash out of soil-PAHs occurred during the interval time between samplings. Results showed that the present PAH contamination level of Jubany Station is relatively low compared to other reported cases in Antarctica but also suggests that an increase in rain and in thawing processes caused by the global warming could result in an important soil-associated PAH mobilization with unpredictable consequences for the biota of Potter Cove.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in Antarctic organisms

Polar Biology, Jan 16, 1997

To evaluate levels of essential (zinc and copper) and non-essential (mercury and cadmium) heavy m... more To evaluate levels of essential (zinc and copper) and non-essential (mercury and cadmium) heavy metals, 34 species of organisms from different areas close to the Antarctic Peninsula were analysed. These included algae, filter-feeders, omnivorous invertebrates and vertebrates. Mercury was not detected, while cadmium was found in the majority of organisms analysed (detection limit was 0.05 ppm for both metals). The highest cadmium concentration was observed in the starfish Odontaster validus. Anthozoans, sipunculids and nudibranchs showed maximum levels of zinc, while the highest copper level was found in the gastropod ¹rophon brevispira. Mercury and cadmium levels in fishes were below the detection limit. Concentrations of essential and non-essential metals in birds were highest in liver followed by muscle and eggs. Cadmium and mercury levels in muscle of southern elephant seals were above the detection limit, whereas in Antarctic fur seals they were below it. The objective of the study was to gather baseline information for metals in Antarctic Ocean biota that may be needed to detect, measure and monitor future environmental changes.

Research paper thumbnail of Niveles de hidrocarburos de petróleo en los alrededores del casco del buque "Bahía Paraíso", Puerto Arturo, Antártida

Research paper thumbnail of Resultados preliminares sobre el contenido de metales traza en lapas recolectadas en los alrededores de la Base Jubany (Isla 25 de Mayo, Antártida)

Research paper thumbnail of Low levels of PAHs and organotin compounds in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, Sep 1, 2021

The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presen... more The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presence in West Antarctica. The human presence, with all the activities associated such as logistic, scientific and tourism operations, represents a potential risk of chemical pollution with both, organic and inorganic contaminants. Under these conditions knowledge about the presence and levels of the main persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is essential to evaluate the environmental status of this ecologically relevant and sensitive area. In this work, which complements our previous study regarding trace elements, we performed the first regional-scale monitoring of 24 PAHs (16 of them included in EPA list of primary pollutant), and organotin compounds (OTCs:TBT, DBT and MBT) in surface sediment from 68 sites comprising six different areas in Maxwell Bay, southeast coast of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island. POPs were quantified in surface sediment samples (20-30 m depth) obtained during two summer Antarctic expeditions by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The two most anthropized areas (South Fildes and Potter Cove) showed moderated evidence of pollution for PAHs and OTC. In some sampling sites the concentration of total PAHs was higher than 100 ng/g dw, while TBT was detected in only five samples, two of them located in Potter Cove (ranged between 14 and 18 ng/g dw), and three, located in South Fildes area (ranged between 118 and 416 ng/g dw). Although POPs contamination was evidenced in some samples close to scientific stations, a pollution pattern was not clearly identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Determinacion automatica de amonio en aguas saladas

Research paper thumbnail of Registro continuo de parametros fisico-quimicos superficiales en mares antarticos. I: Mar de weddell

Research paper thumbnail of Niveles de hidrocarburos de petróleo en los alrededores del casco del buque" Bahía Paraíso", Puerto Arturo, Antártida

Research paper thumbnail of Element concentrations of environmental concern in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, 2019

Quality of sediments from the region with the greatest human presence in Western Antarctica Penin... more Quality of sediments from the region with the greatest human presence in Western Antarctica Peninsula, was evaluated. • The first data of Hg in marine sediments for the study area are reported. • Baseline levels are defined for 9 trace elements, Fe and Mn. • The Igeo/SC tool was used for the first time in many sites of the study area for the evaluation of the sediments quality. • The possible effect of iceberg scouring, ice-rafting-debris and ice calving on the composition of sediments is discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Arsenic biotargets in volcanic environments

Research paper thumbnail of Resultados preliminares sobre el contenido de metales traza en lapas recolectadas en los alrededores de la Base Jubany (Isla 25 de Mayo, Antártida)

Research paper thumbnail of Low levels of PAHs and organotin compounds in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, 2021

The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presen... more The Northern region of the Antarctic Peninsula constitutes the area with the highest human presence in West Antarctica. The human presence, with all the activities associated such as logistic, scientific and tourism operations, represents a potential risk of chemical pollution with both, organic and inorganic contaminants. Under these conditions knowledge about the presence and levels of the main persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is essential to evaluate the environmental status of this ecologically relevant and sensitive area. In this work, which complements our previous study regarding trace elements, we performed the first regional-scale monitoring of 24 PAHs (16 of them included in EPA list of primary pollutant), and organotin compounds (OTCs:TBT, DBT and MBT) in surface sediment from 68 sites comprising six different areas in Maxwell Bay, southeast coast of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island. POPs were quantified in surface sediment samples (20-30 m depth) obtained during two summer Antarctic expeditions by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The two most anthropized areas (South Fildes and Potter Cove) showed moderated evidence of pollution for PAHs and OTC. In some sampling sites the concentration of total PAHs was higher than 100 ng/g dw, while TBT was detected in only five samples, two of them located in Potter Cove (ranged between 14 and 18 ng/g dw), and three, located in South Fildes area (ranged between 118 and 416 ng/g dw). Although POPs contamination was evidenced in some samples close to scientific stations, a pollution pattern was not clearly identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Element concentrations of environmental concern in surface sediment samples from a broad marine area of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island, South Shetland Islands

Science of The Total Environment, 2019

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of occurrence, bioaccumulation and molecular targets of arsenic and other selected volcanic elements in Argentinean Patagonia and Antarctic ecosystems

Science of The Total Environment, 2019

The relationship between volcanism and biota composition in Argentinean Patagonia and Antarctica ... more The relationship between volcanism and biota composition in Argentinean Patagonia and Antarctica is showed. • The highest arsenic concentration in water was related to the geothermal process on volcanoes. • As-protein bands were not detected (b0.25 μg/g) in As-accumulating species. • Hierarchical cluster analysis reveals high volcanism and low anthropic influence in these particular environments.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in sediments and soft tissues of the Antarctic clam Laternula elliptica: More evidence as a ? possible biomonitor of coastal marine pollution at high latitudes?

Science of The Total Environment, 2015

The potential of the Antarctic clam as biomonitor for heavy metals was evaluated. • Levels of Cd ... more The potential of the Antarctic clam as biomonitor for heavy metals was evaluated. • Levels of Cd and Cu in sediments were related to the contribution of the streams. • Remains of paints cause high Cr and Pb levels which are randomly detected in clam tissues. • Kidney from L. elliptica could be adequate for biomonitoring pollution with Cd and Zn.

Research paper thumbnail of Heavy metals in molted fur of the southern elephant seal Mirounga leonina

Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of Presence and Distribution of Persistent Toxic Substances in Sediments and Marine Organisms of Potter Cove, Antarctica

Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 2010

Research paper thumbnail of The use of epilithic antarctic lichens (Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antarctica) to determine deposition patterns of heavy metals in the Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Science of the Total Environment, 1997

Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U... more Trace-metal contents were recorded for the epilithic antarctic lichens Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, sampled close to the Argentine scientific station 'Jubany' on '25 de Mayo' (King George) Island, in the Southern Shetland Archipelago (Antarctica). The corresponding heavy-metal levels have been measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometry, following internationally accepted analytical methods. The results obtained support the hypothesis that an atmospheric circulation of trace metals exists on the assessed area, and the activities developed at the different scientific stations located on this island would be a potential source of heavy metals to the evaluated environment. The geographical distribution of trace metals atmospherically transported in the area close to 'Jubany Station' was studied through the corresponding metal contents of the assessed lichens. Finally, the suitability of both analyzed lichen species, Usnea aurantiacoatra and U. antartica, as biological indicators for quantitative monitoring of airborne metals for this antarctic environment was recognized. 0 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.

Research paper thumbnail of Metal (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu) levels in the Antarctic fish Notothenia coriiceps

Polar Biology, Oct 31, 1998

During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were ... more During the 1994/1995 Antarctic summer 20 Antarctic cod (Notothenia coriiceps) of both sexes were collected at King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, to determine the levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu in muscle, liver, gonad and kidney. Metal levels were assessed using the inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) technique. The levels of Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu observed in both sexes of N. coriiceps were signi®cantly lower in muscle tissue than in liver, kidney and gonad; the livers of males and gonads of females had the highest levels. The dierences between the sexes were signi®cant for Zn and Mn in gonads and for Cu in liver. Despite the modest size-range of the specimens, the Cu levels in liver, muscle and kidney were signi®cantly inversely correlated with female mass (P < 0.05) as was gonad Cu level and male body length. Fe mainly presented the highest concentrations and Cu and Mn the lowest ones. Mean muscle metal levels are similar to those of hake, cod, herring and mackerel; however, the level of Fe was slightly higher. Accumulation may occur for Fe, Zn and Mn in liver, kidney and gonad, which have higher levels than those of most prey.