Analysis of Heavy Metals in Mussels and Seawater from Jericho Yacht Club: Evidence of Bioaccumulation and Methodological Challenges

Abstract

This study investigated the accumulation of heavy metals in mussels and seawater collected from Jericho Yacht Club, using a 16-in-1 test strip to measure concentrations of iron (Fe), ammonia chloride (NH₄Cl), nitrate (NO₃), cyanuric acid (CYA), bromine (Br), and total alkalinity (TAL). Results indicated significant differences in the concentrations of Cu, NO₃, CYA, and TAL between mussels and seawater (p<0.05), suggesting bioaccumulation. However, no significant differences were observed for NH₄Cl and Br. The study identified key limitations, including dilution effects during sample preparation and challenges in interpreting test strip results. Calculations based on C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ demonstrated how dilution reduced detectable concentrations. These findings align with literature that emphasises the potential of mussels as bioindicators under optimised conditions.