Environmental assessment of coastal surface sediments at Tarut Island, Arabian Gulf (Saudi Arabia)

Journal Article

مستخلص المنشور

Thirty eight surface sediments samples have been collected in the area around Tarut Island, Saudi Arabian
Gulf to determine the spatial distribution of metals, and to assess the magnitude of pollution. Total concentrations
of Fe, Mn, As, B, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mo, Pb, Se, and Zn in the sediments were measured using
ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer). Nature of sediments and heavy metals distribution
reflect marked changes in lithology, biological activities in Tarut bay. Very high arsenic concentrations
were reported in all studied locations from Tarut Island. The concentrations of Mercury are
generally high comparing to the reported values from the Gulf of Oman, Red Sea. The concentrations
of As and Hg exceeded the wet threshold safety values (MEC, PEC) indicating possible As and Hg contamination.
Dredging and land filling, sewage, and oil pollution are the most important sources of pollution in
the study area.