Sediment-bound trace metals in Golfe-Juan Bay, northwestern Mediterranean: Distribution, availability and toxicity


Sediment-bound trace metals in Golfe-Juan Bay, northwestern Mediterranean: Distribution, availability and toxicity

Tiquio, M. G. J.; Hurel, C.; Marmier, N.; Taneez, M.; Andral, B.; Jordan, N.; Francour, P.

The concentration, potential mobility, cation exchange capacity and toxicity of eight sediment-bound metals in Golfe-Juan Bay, France were examined. Results revealed significant spatial gradient of metal contamination along Golfe-Juan coast. The distribution and concentration of the metals appear to be influenced by the geochemical properties of the sediment, proximity to anthropogenic sources and general water circulation in the bay. The portion of trace metals found in the exchangeable, carbonate, oxidizable and reducible fractions of the sediment constitute 31%-58% ofthe total sediment-bound trace metal content, suggesting significant potential for remobilization of metals into the water column. Pb and Ni content ofthe sediment exceed the limits ofthe French marine sediment quality. Whole sediment extracts showed acute toxicity to marine rotifers. This study concludes that monitoring and management ofsediment-bound trace metals in Golfe-Juan Bay are important so as not to underestimate their availability and risk to the marine ecosystems.

Keywords: trace metals; sediment; mussels; remobilization

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Publ.-Id: 25727