Arsenic is found globally in both freshwater and marine ecosystems, posing a threat to aquatic life. It exists in organic and inorganic forms, with the inorganic variant being more toxic. While most water bodies contain inorganic arsenic, organic forms are often prevalent in fish. Both natural and human activities contribute to arsenic contamination in water. The bioaccumulation of arsenic and its transfer through the aquatic food chain highlight its significance as an environmental concern. Prolonged exposure to low levels of arsenic in fish can lead to accumulation, impacting higher trophic levels, including larger fish and humans who consume them. This review aims to enhance our understanding of arsenic sources, its bioaccumulation, food chain transfer, and effects on fish health. It underscores the urgent need to tackle arsenic contamination in water bodies to protect aquatic ecosystems and the well-being of wildlife and human populations reliant on these resources.
arsenic, fish health, bioaccumulation, biotransformation, arsenic speciation
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