Water Quality and Contaminants
Florida's diverse aquatic resources are threatened by many human
activities that can affect water quality and fish habitat and
increase the likelihood of contaminants accumulating in water and
fish. Project staff members monitor changes in water quality and
levels of contaminants, including mercury in fish, in Florida's
fresh and marine waters.
Some fish contain mercury and other contaminants, which can be harmful to human health. Fish-consumption advisories provide citizens with guidelines on how much fish they can safely eat to minimize their exposure to contaminants.
This article details the history of FWC's mercury-monitoring program and the development of consumption advisories for Florida fishes.
This article provides background information about mercury, including its sources, how it accumulates in fish and wildlife, and what risks it poses to wildlife and human health.
Do you have questions about mercury in fish? Read the FAQ for answers.
FWC is working with state and federal partners to monitor water
quality and assess potential risks associated with Hurricane
Katrina.
Persons with Disabilities