What biological process causes methylmercury to build up in fish tissues over their lifespan?
Answer
Bioaccumulation
Bioaccumulation is the specific process by which methylmercury builds up in the tissues of a fish over the course of its life. Fish absorb this mercury compound from the water they inhabit and from the food they consume. Because larger, longer-lived predatory fish, such as King Mackerel, have extended lifespans, they provide more time for this compound to concentrate in their tissues, resulting in higher overall concentrations compared to smaller or shorter-lived species.
Related Questions
What biological process causes methylmercury to build up in fish tissues over their lifespan?Which fish is specifically identified among those containing higher mercury amounts compared to others commercially available?Which smaller mackerel species is generally considered a much safer, low-mercury alternative to King Mackerel?Which groups are often advised to completely avoid fish considered high in mercury, such as King Mackerel?What combination of traits perfectly describes a fish likely to be high in mercury, fitting the King Mackerel profile?Which regulatory body monitored mercury levels in commercial catches between 1990 and 2012?King Mackerel is categorized in the same tier of concern as which other large predatory fish mentioned?What is the general suggested limit for healthy adults regarding high-mercury species like King Mackerel?When consulting safety regarding locally caught King Mackerel, who should anglers check with for specific advisories?Through what initial process does mercury, often from industrial emissions, convert into the dangerous form absorbed by fish?