Abstract

Coastal environments affected by historical industrial activity may accumulate mercury in marine organisms and pose risks to ecosystems and human consumers. The study was motivated by the need to assess whether legacy contamination continues to influence marine biota in the coastal area of Vlora Bay. It was hypothesised that mercury concentrations in selected molluscs and commonly consumed fish species reflect spatial differences in environmental contamination within the bay. Samples of two mollusc species and twelve fish species were collected from several locations and analysed for mercury concentration in tissue using standard laboratory procedures. The results showed low mercury levels in most organisms, with the lowest values recorded at the cleanest station and higher levels observed near the area influenced by past industrial activity. At the same time, fish concentrations remained below recommended limits for human consumption. These findings indicate a limited current risk for moderate consumers, confirm the persistence of localised contamination, and highlight the importance of regular environmental monitoring.