Distribution of Po-210 in two species of predatory marine fish from the Brazilian coast

Polonium-210 (210Po) concentration was quantified in the muscle tissue and organs of two predatory marine fishes (Genypterus brasiliensis and Cynoscion microlepidotus) from Cabo Frio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The species C. microlepidotus, a benthic carnivore, registered higher 210Po in its tissue. The organs associated with digestion displayed the maximum radionuclide compared with other organs. The average activity was 2 mBq kg−1 for G. brasiliensis and it was 6 mBq kg−1 for C. microlepidotus. The activity concentrations varied significantly between the species and among organs. •We analyzed the distribution of 210Po in two species of predator marine fish.•210Po tends to accumulate in some organs, which make this radionuclide radiotoxic.•The consumption of small quantities of fish can represent high potential of 210Po exposure.•Data about 210Po bioaccumulation in tropical predator marine fish are limited.