EVALUATION OF TRACE METAL ELEMENT LEVELS IN WATER, SEDIMENT AND TWO FISH SPECIES (CLARIAS GARIEPINUSAND OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS) IN TEN FISH FARMS IN THE MOUNGODEPARTMENT, LITTORAL REGION, CAMEROON

This study evaluated trace metal element(TME)concentrations in water, sediments, and muscle tissues of Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus collected from ten aquaculture farms in the Moungo Department, Littoral Region, Cameroon. Sampling was conducted during the rainy season, and analyses were performed using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (Shimadzu EDX-7000). The main elements detected were Fe, Cu, Zn, Ca, K, P, S, Si, and Ti. No regulated heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg) were detected above the analytical limits of detection. Total arsenic, which is not regulated in fish flesh under European Union legislation,was also below detection limits.High concentrations of Fe (20.94 65.94 mg/L) and Cu (30.83 34.72 mg/L) were measured in rearing water, exceeding WHO guideline values for drinking water.These levels likely reflect local geochemical conditions, with possible additional inputs from agricultural practices or metal equipment used in farming systems. Sediments were identified as the main accumulation compartment, particularly for Fe and Si, indicating a predominantly geological origin.Fish exhibited site specific bioaccumulation patterns, especially for Fe and Ca, but levels of priority toxic metals remained low. These findings do not indicate regulatory concern but highlight the need for regular monitoring to detect potential changes in contamination levels in the context of expanding aquaculture systems.