A longitudinal study of the heavy metals in the sediments of Marsa Matrouh beaches, Mediterranean Sea, Egypt

Abstract

The beaches of Marsa Matrouh City in Egypt attract numerous local and international beach enthusiasts, particularly during the summer. This study evaluates the changes in the environmental conditions of marine sediments over a decade. Pollution indices were calculated, and the obtained results were compared against sediment quality guidelines. The study provides insights into pollution trends and potential anthropogenic impacts on the coastal ecosystem. The study evaluates the sediment quality of Marsa Matrouh beaches in Egypt, comparing the findings from 2011 to 2021. Ten sediment samples were collected from the ten beaches and prepared to analyze heavy metal concentrations, organic matter (OM), and carbonate levels. Sediments generally showed a uniform sand content with varying OM and carbonate levels. Heavy metal concentrations follow the order Fe > Ni > Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd, highlighting environmental diversity. Heavy metal concentrations revealed Cd as a primary contaminant, indicating a shift from moderate to strong pollution levels over the decade. Environmental factors such as sediment nourishment and construction activities influenced pollution indices, highlighting anthropogenic sources for Cd, Pb, and Ni. Cu, Pb, and Zn exhibited varying pollution levels, with El-Boseet notably polluted in 2021. Overall, the study highlights that Cadmium (Cd) is a major concern in Marsa Matrouh beach sediments.

Keywords

• Marsa Matrouh
• Heavy Metals
• Beaches
• Sediments
• Pollution Indices
• Anthropogenic Activities