Multi-elemental concentrations in tissues of Japanese common squid (Todarodes pacificus)

Forty-five elements were determined in mantle muscle and liver of juvenile Japanese common squid, To-darodes pacificus, collected from three locations in and near Japanese coasts, using a high-resolution inductively coupled p lasma mass spectrometer (HR-ICP-MS) and an inductively coupled plasma atomi c emission spectroscope (ICP-AES). Multivariate statistical techniques were applied to discriminate populations of squids from these three locations b y treating absolute and relative concentrations of trace elements. Signific ant differences were found in the concentrations of elements, particularly for some alkaline and alkaline earth elements in the muscle and liver and f or some 3d transition elements in the liver of three groups of squids. Squi ds from the Pacific Ocean could be distinguished from those of the Sea of J apan by discriminant function analysis of elemental concentrations. Based o n the analysis, the squids collected from the Nemuro Strait in Japan were p redicted to belong to those from the Sea of Japan. Elemental concentrations and discriminant function analysis can be used to identify subpopulations and migratory routes of squids.