Concentrations of zinc and copper in the tissues of decapod crustaceans

Abstract

Concentrations of zinc and copper have been measured in 18 species of decapod crustaceans, ranging from freshwater to purely marine species. Although the intake of zinc and copper probably varies considerably, the majority of animals contain between 20 and 35 μg/g of both metals. This is probably because the concentrations in the body fluids and tissues are regulated. Reasons for differences between the concentrations of zinc and copper in the individual tissues of different species are discussed and the ways in which regulation is achieved are compared.