Levels of trace metals in Shatt Al-Arab branches during spring and summer seasons, 2006.

Abstract

The levels of trace metals Co, Cu, Ni and Zn in both dissolved and particulate phases of water from six branches of Shatt Al-Arab River have been investigated during two seasons, spring and summer 2006 by means of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Levels recorded in μg/ml were: Co (0.019-0.078), Cu(0.163 - 0.240), Ni(0.035 – 0.094) and Zn (0.130–0.215) in dissolved phase during both seasons compared to particulate phase in which levels recorded in μg/g were Co (11.10 – 26.468), Cu(76.340- 376.543), Ni (7.778 – 150.676) and Zn (222.546 – 654.128). These levels were higher than most previous studies at the same sites. It is appeared that all studied branches are highly polluted and water appears highly turbid, viscose and greenish in color due to the expected abundance of phytoplanktons.