Trace metal residues in shellfish from Maryland waters, 1976-1980

Levels of seven heavy metal residues, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury and zinc were monitored in samples of the American oyster (Crassostrea virginica), the soft shell clam (Mya arenaria), the hard shell clam (Mercinaria mercinaria) and the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus). Samples were taken from the Maryland section of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries over a five year period (1976-80). This study was undertaken to provide an estimate of a baseline for values of trace heavy metals. Also, the oyster, being a non-mobile filter feeder, provides information regarding the level of metal residues in its environment (water and sediment), because heavy metal uptake is related to the surrounding metal concentrations. Additionally, this type of monitoring program is essential to ensure that shellfish sold for human consumption are within safe limits established for toxic substances by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Results of the study are consistent with data from previous years and no statistically significant year-to-year trends were observed over the period of the investigation.