Elemental Composition of Sediment and Surface Water in Polluted and Unpolluted Marine Areas in the Territorial Waters of Northern Cyprus

Abstract

In this study, sampling was carried out in 5 regions selected to represent the territorial waters of Northern Cyprus. In the regions of Famagusta, South and North Karpaz, Kyrenia and G & uuml;zelyurt, surface water sediment samples were collected during summer and winter seasons and the levels of 12 different metals were determined using ICP/OES. The highest level of Sr was found in the surface water. Sediment was analyzed at 3 different depths and 3 different particle sizes in each region and season. Iron was found to be the most abundant element in the sediment. It was also found that As, Cr and V metals varied similarly in different sediment samples. Zinc, Pb and Cu metals were found at very high levels in the Famagusta region compared to other regions. No correlations were observed among metals in surface water samples, whereas significant correlations were identified among metals in sediment samples. Surface water and sediment samples, compared with international quality standards, revealed instances where threshold values were exceeded. This study represents the most recent and geographically extensive investigation into heavy metal accumulation in Northern Cyprus, specifically focusing on territorial waters. Comparisons with previous studies highlighted the trends in heavy metal accumulation across regions, providing valuable insights to guide the planning of future research in the area.