Geochemical investigations regarding the variability of metal pollution in the Amvrakikos Bay, Greece.

Abstract

The Amvrakikos Bay is one of the most important ecosystems in the Mediterranean with great environmental, ecological and biological value. However, over the years, water quality has suffered severe degradation and is now one of the most polluted environmental areas in Greece. In the present study, using the analytical data of concentrations of precipitated metal deposits at the bottom of Amvrakikos Gulf, at its three largest lagoons: Logaros, Tsoukalio and Rodia, and by applying the indicators PLI, Igeo and EF, an assessment of the level of pollution of the area was made. The use of these indicators may show the degree of pollution of the area with heavy metals, and reveal the source of pollution i,e. whether the heavy metals are of anthropogenic or of natural processes, assessing simultaneously the degree of anthropogenic effect. Based on the PLI indicator, the marine zone in Menidi and Paliovarka as well as the Rodia and Tsoukalio lagoons are considered to be polluted. According to the Igeo Index, the sampling areas are unchanged to slightly burden by heavy metals. The largest charge is caused by Ni, followed by Mn and Pb. Based on EF, the concentrations of Cr, Mn, Co, Pb and Ni are significantly influenced by the various anthropogenic activities.