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| Biological Importance |
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  Copper
is required for the normal functioning of plants, animals, humans,
and most microorganisms. It is incorporated into a variety of proteins
which perform specific metabolic functions. Because it is an essential
metal, daily dietary requirements have been recommended by a number
of agencies around the world.
The chemical nature of copper is very important in determining its
biological availability, both in the environment and in food. Although
evidence of this continues to accumulate, the impact of excess copper
is still far too frequently inferred from levels of "total copper"
or even the "presence" of copper.
Some of the uses of copper come from its ability to control the growth
of organisms. This occurs when copper is biologically available and
at concentrations that are detrimental. As a result, copper is used
in a range of bactericidal agents. For example, copper has been demonstrated
to be an effective antibacterial, antiplaque agent in mouthwashes
and toothpastes. Copper also continues to be widely used for the control
of unwanted organisms in fish farming. Evidence in both fresh water
and salt water indicates no hazardous effect to consumers of the fish.
Copper antifouling agents used on fish net pens have been considered
a source of metal to the sediments but there is little evidence that
they provide an important source of dissolved copper when there is
adequate water exchange for fish farming. |
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