Metüülelavhõbedaks

Metüülelavhõbedaks, also known as methylmercury, is an organometallic compound with the chemical formula Hg(CH3)2. It is a highly toxic substance that occurs naturally in the environment through the methylation of inorganic mercury by certain microorganisms in aquatic ecosystems. Methylmercury is lipophilic, meaning it readily dissolves in fats, which allows it to bioaccumulate in the tissues of living organisms.

Once formed, methylmercury enters the food chain. Small organisms absorb it from the water and sediment, and as larger predators consume these smaller organisms, the concentration of methylmercury increases at each trophic level. This process is known as biomagnification. Consequently, top predators, including humans who consume contaminated fish and seafood, can be exposed to significantly higher levels of methylmercury than those found in the environment.

Exposure to methylmercury can have severe health consequences, particularly for the developing nervous system. Infants and fetuses are especially vulnerable, and prenatal exposure can lead to developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and motor skill deficits. In adults, high levels of methylmercury can cause neurological damage, including tremors, memory loss, and vision problems. Due to its toxicity, regulatory agencies worldwide set limits on methylmercury levels in food, particularly in fish, to protect public health.