Multivariate analysis and seasonal dynamics of toxic trace elements and antibiotics in shrimp (Penaeus vannamei, boon, 1931) aquaculture: Impacts on human and environmental health.

Capture fisheries, mainly shrimp production, have declined, while cultivation has increased due to market demand, delicacy, and health benefits. This study examined toxic trace elements (TTEs) and antibiotics in water, sediment, and farmed shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) along India's southeastern coast. TTE concentrations in seawater during summer and winter were 0.37-4.18 μg/L for Arsenic (As), 0.51-10.52 μg/L for cadmium (Cd), not detected (ND)-0.45 μg/L for mercury (Hg), and 0.01-0.35 μg/L for lead (Pb), all below World Health Organization (WHO) and US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) limits. The TTE levels in the sediment were below the interim sediment quality guidelines (ISQG). Cd, Hg, and Pb concentrations in P. vannamei ranged from ND to 0.189 mg/kg, ND to 0.117 mg/kg, and ND to 0.374 mg/kg, respectively, which were below the European Commission (EC) and Food Safety Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) limits. The chromium (Cr) and As levels were 0.01 to 1.09 mg/kg and ND to 3.66 mg/kg, respectively, below the MRLs (12 and 76 mg/kg) prescribed by the FSSAI for fishery products. Health risk assessments showed target hazard quotient (THQ)/total THQ (TTHQ) and lifetime cancer risk (LCR) values within USEPA guidelines, indicating no significant health risk. Biological and ecological pollution indices showed most water and sediment samples posed low risk, with <9 % toxicity probability for coastal biota. This study provides data on environmental pollutants in farmed shrimp, offering insights for policymakers to strengthen monitoring frameworks, food safety standards, and sustainable aquaculture practices aligned with trade regulations.