Radionuclides in south Indian seafoods: A special focus on major contributing species

Concentrations of natural radionuclides 238U, 208Tl (232Th), 226Ra, 210Po, 210Pb and 40K, and fallout 137Cs were determined in pelagic and demersal fishes which are of economic importance. Pelagic fishes concentrated more radionuclides in the muscle tissue when compared to benthic species. Similarly, teleosts registered more activity than elasmobranchs. Based on the activity levels in muscle, the intake, effective dose and lifetime risks to humans were estimated. The internal radiation doses received by fishes and human beings seem to be mainly due to 210Po and 40K. The fishes were found to be safe for consumption