The impact of urbanization on tropical mangroves (Fortaleza, Brazil): evidence from PAH distribution in sediments.
This investigation represents the first environmental diagnosis of the distribution and sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments from a tropical mangrove in Fortaleza, northeastern Brazil. Sediment cores from six sampling stations in the Cocó and Ceará Rivers were retrieved in June-July 2006 to determine 17 priority PAHs. The total PAH concentrations (Sigma(PAHs)) ranged from 3.04 to 2234.76 microg kg(-1)(Cocó River) and from 3.34 to 1859.21 microg kg(-1) (Ceará River). These levels are higher than those of other cities with more industrial development. PAH concentrations did not reach probable effect levels (PELs). However, from 4.5 to 87.5% of individual PAH concentrations can occasionally cause adverse biological effects for aquatic organisms. The PAH molecular ratios indicate that the PAHs in the sediment core were derived mainly from petroleum, wood, and charcoal combustion (pyrogenic source), and that atmospheric deposition and urban runoff may serve as important pathways for PAH input to the sediment. Clearly, the Sigma(PAHs) in sediments collected in the Cocó and Ceará Rivers indicate that ongoing pollution is more severe than past pollution.
Cavalcante
Rivelino M
RM
Laboratório de Análise Traço, Departamento de Química Analítica e Físico Química, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Bloco 940, Campus do Pici, 60451-970 Fortaleza-CE, Brasil. rivelino@labomar.ufc.br
Sousa
Francisco W
FW
Nascimento
Ronaldo F
RF
Silveira
Edilberto R
ER
Freire
George S S
GS
D019015:Geologic Sediments / Q000737:chemistry*; D011083:Polycyclic Compounds / Q000032:analysis*; D011786:Quality Control; D043982:Rhizophoraceae / Q000737:chemistry*; D014507:Urbanization; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical / Q000032:analysis*
D011083:Polycyclic Compounds; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical