Variation in radical antioxidant capacity and the total amount of carotenoids in razor clams, Ensis marginatus (Pennant, 1777), from the Çanakkale Strait (Abidealtı), Turkey

Metabolic activities such as breathing and digestion, resulting from natural functions of the body through oxidation, lead to the formation of free radicals that cause cancer, premature cardiac aging and some chronic diseases. Antioxidants are substances that remove free radicals and prevent cell damage. Seafood significantly contributes to the elimination of free radicals, especially owing to its high quality nutrient content. In this context, the objective of the study was to determine the radical antioxidant capacity and the total amount of carotenes in razor clams. The IC₅₀ (mg g⁻¹) value of the DPPH radical sweeping effect varied over the months (p < 0.05), showing the highest value in June, gradually decreasing from September and reaching the lowest level in February. The total amount of carotenoids also varied, with the highest value in September (p < 0.05). The total amount of chlorophyll ranged from 6.15 μg g⁻¹ in August to 66.71 μg g⁻¹ in December.