Which disease is caused by eating fish contaminated by industrial waste, containing mercury compounds? 

Minamata disease

The correct answer is option 1. Minamata disease.

Minamata disease is a neurological disorder caused by the ingestion of fish and shellfish contaminated with methylmercury, a toxic form of mercury. The contamination typically arises from industrial discharges into water bodies, where mercury compounds are converted into methylmercury by bacteria. Here's an explanation of Minamata disease:

1. Mercury Pollution:

Minamata disease originated in the city of Minamata, Japan, where a chemical company discharged untreated wastewater containing methylmercury into Minamata Bay. The mercury compounds released into the water were transformed by bacteria into methylmercury, which accumulated in marine life, particularly in fish and shellfish.

2. Bioaccumulation:

Methylmercury undergoes a process called bioaccumulation, where it becomes increasingly concentrated as it moves up the food chain. Small fish consume contaminated organisms, and larger fish that prey on them accumulate higher levels of methylmercury. This process continues, leading to high concentrations of mercury in apex predators like predatory fish.

3. Human Exposure:

Communities living near contaminated water bodies who consume fish and shellfish from those waters are at risk of mercury exposure. Methylmercury is absorbed into the human body when contaminated seafood is consumed.

4. Neurological Effects:

Methylmercury is particularly harmful to the nervous system. Chronic exposure to high levels can result in neurological symptoms and damage, including sensory disturbances, muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and in severe cases, paralysis and death.

5. Minamata Bay Outbreak:

The Minamata disease outbreak in the 1950s and 1960s was characterized by neurological symptoms among residents who consumed contaminated seafood. The disease was initially identified in cats that exhibited neurological abnormalities, leading to its name, Minamata disease.

6. Recognition and Actions:

The Minamata disease outbreak led to increased awareness of the environmental and health impacts of industrial mercury pollution. The incident prompted regulatory measures and international efforts to control mercury discharges and mitigate the risks associated with its exposure.

Minamata disease serves as a poignant example of the severe consequences of environmental pollution and the importance of regulating industrial practices to protect both ecosystems and human health. Efforts to address mercury pollution continue globally to prevent similar incidents and safeguard aquatic ecosystems and communities.