Abstract

Ports are highly anthropized areas that receive multiple sources of pollution, requiring monitoring plans to improve environmental status. In this context, we suggest detecting the combined effects of different types of pollutants discharged into the port of Tabarka on the golden grey mullet Chelon auratus (Risso, 1810). We focused on comparing the biochemical responses of the Tabarka port population and another sample from a nearby non-anthropized marine area. Biochemical responses were assessed through enzymatic activities (CAT and AChE) and lipid peroxidation levels (MDA). Our results revealed variations in CAT enzymatic activity and MDA levels between the port and marine fish populations, confirming a general state of oxidative stress in the former. Additionally, neurotoxicity due to neurotoxins in the port fish was demonstrated. Overall, the biochemical responses approach appears to be valuable for harbor water biomonitoring, as they collectively highlight the effects of different pollutants on mullet fish physiology and could provide guidance for future adapted environmental monitoring.

Keywords:Chelon auratus; Biomarkers; Water biomonitoring; Port of Tabarka