METABOLOMIC AND IONOMIC STATUS OF HERBIVOROUS, CARNIVOROUS, AND OMNIVOROUS FISHES IN VELLAR ESTUARY, INDIA

Abstract

This study investigated trophic-related variations in biochemical composition and elemental profiles of six estuarine fish species using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma–Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Fish representing herbivorous, carnivorous, and omnivorous feeding habits were analyzed using liver tissue to assess metabolic fingerprints and mineral content. FT-IR analysis revealed clear differences in proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates among trophic groups, with significant species-specific variation confirmed by principal component analysis and one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05). Carnivorous species exhibited relatively higher protein and lipid signatures, whereas herbivorous species showed lower protein content and distinct carbohydrate-associated bands. Omnivorous species displayed intermediate metabolic profiles, reflecting dietary flexibility. ICP-OES results indicated that potassium and magnesium were the predominant elements across all species, while cadmium was consistently detected at minimal levels. Elevated accumulation of certain trace metals in carnivorous species suggests trophic transfer and potential implications for food safety.

The findings highlight the potential of FT-IR–based metabolic fingerprinting coupled with elemental analysis for food quality assessment, traceability, and safety evaluation of aquatic food resources.