Mercury Contamination
Derwent River in Tasmania-Highest source of Mercury contamination in the world.
High concentrations of methylmercury may have toxic effects, such as memory loss, behavioural changes and even death.
Scientists have detected levels of mercury up to 10 times higher in hotspots in the Derwent River than in other highly contaminated systems. This is largely a result of toxic industry operations along the river in the estuary.
People who consume significant amounts of fish often have up to 20 mg of mercury per kg of bodyweight, according to researchers. The takeaway here is that moderation is key but, nonetheless, mercury exposure in humans remains a dangerous problem.
