Mercury distribution in different environmental matrices in aquatic systems of abandoned gold mines, Western Colombia: Focus on human health

Total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) in water, sediments, macrophytes, fish and human health risks were analyzed assessed from abandoned gold mining ponds (AGMPs)/ areas Western Colombia to know its present environmental condition. Concentrations of THg water (avg. 13.0 ± 13.73 ng L-1) was above the EPA threshold level (12 L-1), suggesting possible chronic effects. Sediment sample revealed that are methylated (%MeHg: 3.3–11). Macrophyte Eleocharis elegans presented higher content underground biomass (0.16 0.13 µg g-1 dw) than aerial (0.05 0.04 indicating accumulation THg. MeHg most abundant chemical species (MeHg/THg: 83.2–95.0%), signifying bioavailability risk towards health. Fish samples (15%) indicate WHO limit (0.5 g), particularly Ctenolucius beani, Hoplias malabaricus lowest Sternopygus aequilabiatus Geophagus pellegrini. Bioaccumulation biomagnification carnivores representing a source exposure potential threat Fulton's condition factor (K) for bioaccumulation decrease with increasing trophic fishes. Overall results suggest, found different AGMPs compartments should be monitored this region.