Essential mineral content of common fish species in Chanoga, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Common fish species in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, offer significant potential to address mineral deficiencies in developing regions. Research reveals that these fishes, particularly Barbus poechii, contain essential minerals such as calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and phosphorus (P) within ranges comparable to global standards. The study used atomic absorption spectrometry, flame photometry, and UV-VIS spectrometry to analyze mineral content in edible flesh of large fish (>130mm) and whole small fish (<130mm). Significant variations in mineral content were observed among species, with Barbus poechii showing the highest levels. These findings suggest that incorporating Okavango Delta fish into diets could effectively combat mineral deficiency diseases, providing a sustainable solution for nutrient intake in vulnerable populations.

O, M., K, M., & W, R. L. M. (2015). Essential mineral content of common fish species in Chanoga, Okavango Delta, Botswana. African Journal of Food Science, 9(9), 480–486. https://doi.org/10.5897/ajfs2015.1307