Anthropogenically-induced ecological risks in Lake Erikli, NW Turkey

Abstract

This study examined the vertical distribution of heavy metals in the core sediments of Lake Erikli, Turkey and their potential ecological risks. Two core samples 48 and 34 cm in length were taken with a Kajak gravity core sampler. The samples were divided into 2 cm sub-samples in the laboratory and analyzed using ICP-MS. The enrichment factors (EF), potential ecological risk factor (PERI) and pollution load index (PLI) were calculated to evaluate the environmental quality of the sediment. According to the results, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, and Cr come from natural sources in both cores and there is no anthropogenic contribution to the distribution of these elements, while some anthropogenic effects were detected for As, Cd and Hg. According to the calculated risk index (CRI) for each metal, the potential risk of Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, As and Cr is low. Two metals posing a threat to the ecosystem were identified; Cd and Hg. PLI values significantly increased from the bottom of the slice to the surface in accordance with the EF and PERI values. Continuation of the pumping of domestic waste into Lake Erikli will accelerate the process of deterioration.