Trace element concentrations in barramundi (Lates calcarifer) collected along the coast of Vietnam

Abstract We determined concentrations of 23 trace elements (TEs), and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope (δ 13 C and δ 15 N) signatures in barramundi ( Lates calcarifer ) specimens collected along the coast of Vietnam in the Northern (NCZ), Central (CCZ) and Southern (SCZ) zones in the period 2007–2010. A combination of δ 13 C and δ 15 N signatures provided insight into ontogenetic shifts in barramundi foraging choices. There were clear zone-dependent differences in Mn, As, Sr and Tl concentrations; levels of Tl were highest in the NCZ, As in the CCZ, and Mn and Sr in the SCZ. Lowest concentrations of Rb occurred in the NCZ, Bi was lowest in the CCZ, and Cd and Cs were lowest in the SCZ. δ 15 N values significantly increased with increasing Zn, Se, Sn and Cs. Concentrations of TEs in barramundi from Vietnam were below worldwide guidelines for human consumption.