Distribution, origin, and potential toxicological significance of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments of Kaohsiung Harbor, Taiwan

► Twelve harbor sediment samples were collected and analyzed for PAHs. ► Highest PAH concentrations were from the industrial zone docks. ► The possible source of PAHs in the industrial zone dock could be coal combustion. ► Higher total TEQcarc values were found at industrial zone docks.