Distribution of trace elements in liver and muscle of Japanese quails

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine concentrations of trace elements in the selected tissues and organs of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japanica). The samples of liver and muscle were analyzed for the presence of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) on the atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Unicam Solar 939). The mean values of Cd, Cr, Zn and Cu found in leg muscle were 0.016; 0.361; 51.076 and 4.822 mg.kg-1 respectively; and in liver the values were 0.026; 0.277; 50.607 and 9.346 mg.kg-1, respectively. Tissue analysis showed an accumulation of Cd, Cr, Zn and Cu in the liver and muscle of Japanese quails and some significant relationship between liver and muscle metal concentrations.