Work

Sediment-Bound Metals in a Protected Karstic Lagoon: Seasonal Dynamics and Ecological Risk to Biota and Public Health

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Coastal lagoons in karstic regions are highly vulnerable to anthropogenic inputs via permeable aquifers. This study evaluates heavy metal distribution and ecological/health risks in Ría Lagartos, Mexico. Surface sediments from eleven sites across three seasons were analyzed using geochemical indices (EF, Igeo, RI) and NOAA's SQuiRTs guidelines. Cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) were the primary contaminants, consistently exceeding SQuiRT thresholds with enrichment levels reaching "extremely severe". Spatial analysis linked hotspots to urban/waste sectors, with a Cd-Sn association indicating localized sources. While the overall potential ecological risk was low, localized exceedances for Cd, As, and Ni indicate specific ecotoxicological threats. Human health risk assessments identified significant concerns for arsenic exposure via ingestion, particularly for children. These findings emphasize the karst aquifer as a critical transport pathway and highlight the necessity for integrated geochemical and health monitoring in vulnerable coastal ecosystems.

Source: Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology

DOI: 10.1007/s00128-026-04347-3

Authors: B. C. Juan-Diaz, F. Arcega-Cabrera, K. León-Aguirre, E. Lamas-Cosío, I. Oceguera-Vargas, J. A. Martínez-Trejo

Institution: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Language: English

Topic: Heavy metals in environment

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Good health and well-being, Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,990