Distribution and binding behaviour of trace metals in marine ecosystem of Thane Creek, Mumbai

Abstract Thane Creek, Mumbai, India receives discharges from various industries which can contaminate the marine ecosystem. Binding behaviour of trace metals (Pb, Cu, Cd and Co) was studied in sediment samples collected across the Thane Creek area, Mumbai, India using sequential extraction procedure. All the studied metals were found to be mainly associated with residual fraction in varying percentages. Trace metal contribution in the easily exchangeable and acid extractable fraction (bioavailable fraction) was observed to be lowest, an exception was observed for Cd. Distribution of trace metals in biota samples (Lizardfish, shrimps, prawn and crab) collected from the same locations was also studied. The concentration order of Pb, Cu and Co in the studied biota samples was found as follows Lizardfish Fig. 1 .