Preliminary Report on the Total Mercury Content of Patagonian Toothfish (Dissostichos eleginoides)

Primary data on mercury content in Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichos eleginoides) revealed that low to relatively high contents of this metal are present in the flesh. Values ranging between 0.12 and 0.73 mg kg−1were found in 18 specimens analysed. These figures are in accordance to the feeding habits and long life of this fish. Mercury being a naturally occurring contaminant, and taking into account the values obtained for the mercury content, it is suggested that Patagonian toothfish be included in the Mercury Monitoring Programmes in other countries.