Distribution, enrichment and source of heavy metals in surface sediments of the eastern Beibu Bay, South China Sea

► We have examined TOC and heavy metal elements of surface sediments recovered from the eastern Beibu Bay. ► Cd contamination is present in the study area primarily attributed to rivers input around. ► Fine clay particles and organic matter act as important trace metals carrier in sediments. ► Zn, Cr, Pb, partly Cu were mainly from lithogenic inputs nearby. Hg and As were mainly from anthropogenic input.