Microbial and physico-chemical assessment of seawater in fishing locations on the Tripoli Coast, Libya: Potential risks to marine animal life and public health.

Background: Seawater quality is critical to maintaining ecological balance and ensuring the safety of fish consumed by people. However, untreated wastewater discharge along the Tripoli coast threatens marine animals and public health, especially in fishing areas. Aim: This study aims to evaluate seawater quality by analyzing microbial, physical, and chemical parameters across three selected locations along the Tripoli coastline characterized by intensive fishing activities, in order to assess the potential impacts of water quality on the health of marine animals and the safety of consumers. Methods: Seawater samples were collected from three various fishing locations along the Tripoli coastline. Using a composite sampling method, the collected seawater samples were subjected to laboratory analysis to assess both physical and chemical properties, including pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, nitrate and phosphate (PO Results: The results of physico-chemical analysis of seawater from all selected locations met permissible limits, except for the PO Conclusion: The present study reveals that the quality of seawater in regions with high fishing activity along the Tripoli coastline shows signs of chemical and microbial contamination, which may impact marine animals' health and pose threats to consumers. These results highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and effective wastewater management to ensure safe fishing practices and protection of consumers' health.