Trace Metal Pollution in Estuaries of South India

Abstract

Studies were conducted to determine the dynamics of heavy metals in selected stations of three major economically important estuaries of south India, viz, Vembanad, Ashtamudi and Veli. Heavy metals in the surface water of selected stations were analysed on monthly basis during April 2003 to March 2004. Significantly higher levels of copper and zinc were detected in most of the samples throughout the year. Trace levels of Cr, Cd, As, Sb, Se, Mn, Ni, V and Pb were detected and their occurrence was seasonal. The paper discusses in detail about the seasonal variations of different trace metals and the results revealed that these estuaries are less polluted.