Heavy metal distribution in Pondicherry harbour, southeast coast of India

Abstract

Attempt was made to evaluate the extent of distribution of selected heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Cd and Ph) in water, sediment and plankton over a period of two years from Pondicherry harbour (lat.11°47' N, long.79°50' E). A distinct

seasonal variation in the distribution of metals in the ambient water ,. sediment and plankton was observed. The metals were high during monsoon and low during summer. The order of metal abundance in water, sediment and plankton was Zn>Cu>Pb>Cd. Plankton showed greater adsorption and absorption capacity for most of the heavy metal as revealed by the concentration factor. A significant linear relationship was also observed between metal level in the ambient water and plankton. Salinity plays an important role in the distribution of metal in the study area.