Bioavailable metals in tourist beaches of Richards Bay, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

E. Vetrimurugan, M. P. Jonathan, Priyadarsi D. Roy, V. C. Shruti, O. M. Ndwandwe

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Scopus citations

Abstract

Acid Leachable Trace Metal (ALTMs) concentrations in tourist beaches of Richards Bay, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa were assessed. 53 surface sediment samples were collected from five different beaches (Kwambonambi Long Beach; Nhlabane Beach; Five Mile Beach; Alkanstrand Beach and Port Durnford Beach). The results of ALTMs (Fe, Mn, Cr, Cu, Ni, Co, Pb, Cd, Zn, As, Hg) suggest that they are enriched naturally and with some local industrial sources for (avg. in μg g-1) Fe (3530-7219), Mn (46-107.11), Cd (0.43-1.00) and Zn (48-103.98). Statistical results indicate that metal concentrations were from natural origin attributed to leaching, weathering process and industrial sources. Comparative studies of metal concentrations with sediment quality guidelines and ecotoxicological values indicate that there is no adverse biological effect. Enrichment factor and geoaccumulation indices results indicate moderate enhancement of Fe (Igeo class 1 in FMB), Cd (EF > 50; Igeo classes 2-4) and Zn (Igeo classes 1 & 2).

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)430-436
Number of pages7
JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin
Volume105
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 15 Apr 2016

Keywords

  • Acid Leachable Trace Metals (ALTMs)
  • Beach sediments
  • Enrichment factor
  • Geoaccumulation index
  • Richards Bay
  • South Africa

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