This study was carried out to assess the levels of trace metals (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu) in the macroalgae and sediment of the Sundarban mangrove estuary in Bangladesh. In this connection, macroalgae, water and sediment samples were collected seasonally (pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon) for a year from the study area. The surface water of the estuary was found to be quite rich in NO 3 , PO 4 and NH 4 , which is more than that of the sediment pore water. Trace elements were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The amount of trace metals in the samples were found in the order of Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu. Enrichment factor was done for trace metals in sediment and showed non-crustal origin of Zn and Cu in the monsoon period. Analysis of variance revealed the seasonal variation of trace metal concentration in sediment (except Mn; p > 0.05) and macroalgae (except Zn; p > 0.05). Iron in sediment showed significant positive correlation both with Fe (r = 0.84, p < 0.05) and Mn (r = 0.87, p < 0.01) in macroalgae. Similarly, Cu in sediment demonstrated a significant positive correlation with Cu in macroalgae (r = 0.81, p < 0.01). The findings reveal a significant communication of metals in sediment and macroalgae.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.