Determination of PAHs levels in the skin and muscle tissues of Gölcük lake fish

Within the scope of this thesis, the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the skin and the muscle tissues of fish samples in Gölcük Lake taking place in the Gölcük Nature Park, in Bolu Province, were determined with respect to seasonal changes and environmental pollution factors such as barbecue and grilling aktivities. In this study, PAHs, which are the most important pollutants on the environment and living organisms, were carried out in two periods as summer and heating season (winter). The PAH levels measured in the fish tissues of Gölcük Lake and the fish tissues in the reference study areas were compared and it was revealed that the barbecue picnic activities are an important source of PAHs. It was concluded that PAHs measured in lake composite water samples and sediments cause bio-accumulation of PAH compounds in fish living in the pond. According to the diagnostic ratio calculations, it has been determined that Gölcük Nature Park is mainly affected by PAHs originating from barbecue picnic activities. In this study, the amount of PAH measured in summer and winter periods was found to be higher than the reference areas. According to the results of the study, it was determined that PAHs resulting from the barbecue activity in Gölcük Pond bio-accumulate in the skin and muscle tissues of the fish and that barbecue is an effective source in the formation of PAHs.