Analysis of Selected Trace Metals and Pesticides Offshore of the Florida Keys
Strom RN, Braman RS, Jaap WC, Dolan P, Boomer-Donnelly K, Martin DF. 1992. Analysis of Selected Trace Metals and Pesticides Offshore of the Florida Keys. Florida Scientist. 55(1):1-13
Trace metal and pesticide contents of sediments and producer and consumer organisms were analyzed from samples taken from 18 stations off the Florida Keys from Biscayne National Park to the Dry Tortugas. Samples were analyzed for total mercury, tin (inorganic and organic), arsenic (inorganic and methylated), lead, copper, cadmium, and halogenated pesticides. Pesticide concentrations were below detection limits. In general, concentrations of trace metals increased from sediments to producers to consumers at each station. Though the concentrations tended to be low, some deviations were ascribed to human inputs. Fewer significant correlations were observed than expected possibly because of the dependence of the uptake mechanism upon the ability of the system (sediment, producer, consumer) to remove trace metals from particular materials. Sponges have this ability and may represent a useful means of monitoring the quality of the environment on a sustained basis. The results are generally consistent with a relatively clean environment with some localized anthropogenic effects. (Author's abstract, modified)
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Strom, Richard; Braman, Robert; Jaap, Walter; Dolan, Paula; Boomer-Donnelly, Kelly; Martin, Dean
- Units
- BISC , DRTO
- Keywords
- Benthos, FL, Florida Keys, Indicator Species, Pesticides, Physical Sciences, Sediment, Sponges (Porifera), Trace Metals