This study investigates the distribution, sources, and ecological risks of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in marine and beach sediments of Tangier Bay, Southwestern Mediterranean. Sediments from 22 locations were analyzed for physicochemical properties and concentrations of metals such as As, Cr, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Cu. Elevated levels of As (up to 40.28 mg/kg), Cr (40.60 mg/kg), and Zn (57.29 mg/kg) were found in marine sediments near industrial discharge areas, while beach sediments had higher Cd levels (up to 35.85 mg/kg), indicating urban runoff contamination. The spatial variation in metal levels is influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. Geological characteristics and river inputs establish baseline concentrations, but industrial activities, wastewater discharge, and maritime operations exacerbate pollution. Risk assessment using geo-accumulation, enrichment factor, and ecological risk indices revealed significant pollution, notably from Cd and As. These findings emphasize the need for focused remediation efforts to protect Tangier Bay’s environmental health.

中文翻译：

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评估地中海西南部丹吉尔湾海洋和海滩沉积物中潜在有毒元素的生态和健康风险


本研究调查了地中海西南部丹吉尔湾海洋和海滩沉积物中潜在有毒元素 （PTE） 的分布、来源和生态风险。分析了来自 22 个位置的沉积物的物理化学性质和金属浓度，如 As、Cr、Zn、Cd、Pb 和 Cu。在工业排放区附近的海洋沉积物中发现 As 含量升高（高达 40.28 mg/kg）、Cr （40.60 mg/kg） 和 Zn （57.29 mg/kg），而海滩沉积物的 Cd 含量较高（高达 35.85 mg/kg）， 表明城市径流污染。金属水平的空间变化受自然和人为因素的影响。地质特征和河流输入确定了基线浓度，但工业活动、废水排放和海上作业加剧了污染。使用地质累积、富集因子和生态风险指数的风险评估揭示了严重的污染，尤其是来自 Cd 和 As。这些发现强调了需要集中的修复工作来保护丹吉尔湾的环境健康。