Assessment of heavy metal contamination in the sediments of Marchica Lagoon: Sources, ecological risks, and mitigation strategies

Assessment of heavy metal contamination in the sediments of Marchica Lagoon: Sources, ecological risks, and mitigation strategies

Heavy metal contamination in coastal ecosystems poses an environmental challenge, particularly in lagoons affected by agricultural, urban, and other anthropogenic discharges. This study examines the concentrations, spatial distribution, and ecological risks of heavy metalsincluding lead (Pb), cadmiu...

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Main Authors: El Mekki Ouiam, Layachi Mostafa, Baghour Mourad, Petrova Petranka, Stankov Jovanovi Vesna P., Benyaich Abdelhay, Rahhou Abderrahmane, Zidane Hakima, Akodad Mustapha, Rezzoum Noreddine, Elouamari Najib, Kaddouri Nassir, Oujidi Bouchra, Skalli Ali
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: EDP Sciences 2025-01-01
Series:E3S Web of Conferences
Subjects:
heavy metals
sediment contamination
marchica lagoon
x-ray fluorescence (xrf)
Online Access:https://www.e3s-conferences.org/articles/e3sconf/pdf/2025/32/e3sconf_joe52025_01019.pdf
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Summary:Heavy metal contamination in coastal ecosystems poses an environmental challenge, particularly in lagoons affected by agricultural, urban, and other anthropogenic discharges. This study examines the concentrations, spatial distribution, and ecological risks of heavy metalsincluding lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn)in the sediments of Marchica Lagoon, Morocco. Sediment samples from ten stations were analyzed using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer. Pearson correlation and multivariate analysis were applied to identify contamination sources and assess pollution levels. The results indicate elevated Pb and Cd concentrations in urbanized areas, exceeding sediment quality guidelines. Cr and Ni display strong correlations, suggesting a common anthropogenic origin, while localized Hg and As contamination may be linked to natural mineralization and historical mining. Zn exhibits a diffuse distribution influenced by both natural and human activities. Urban runoff contributes to Pb, Cd, and Zn enrichment, whereas agricultural and geogenic processes affect Cr, Ni, and As distribution. These findings highlight the need for enhanced environmental monitoring and mitigation strategies to curb heavy metal accumulation. Periodic sediment assessments and targeted remediation are essential for preserving the lagoon’s ecological integrity and guiding sustainable coastal management policies.
ISSN:2267-1242

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