Heavy metal contamination in surface water of Mohammedia wetland, Morocco

Abstract

Assessing heavy metal concentrations in wetlands and identifying sources of metal contamination are critical steps in protecting wetlands. Using seven sampling stations, we evaluated the spatial variation of some heavy metal concentrations in surface waters of the Mohammedia wetland and a selected segment of the El Maleh wadi that feeds the wetland. Field observations made it possible to identify and map the pollution discharged into El Maleh wadi, carrying heavy metals into the wetland. The analyses showed that the concentrations of lead, manganese, and cadmium far exceed the thresholds relating to fish life in 100% of sampling stations. All the evidence points to heavy metals contamination of surface water in Mohammedia wetland, generated by industrial activities, wastewater discharges, and leachate from the old landfill located upstream.

Assessment of water quality in the Oued Kert (Eastern Rif, Morocco): Physicochemical analyses and heavy metals

“…Station 5 (S5) exhibits the highest manganese concentration (159 µg L -1 ), while station 3 (S3) has the lowest concentration (3,85 µg L -1 ). The concentrations of Mn downstream are higher than those recorded upstream [13]. Geological processes, geochemistry, and hydrological properties of water sources also affect water quality [24].…”