Levels and spatial distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in superficial sediment from 15 Italian marine protected areas (MPA)

► PAHs are widespread classes of environmental pollutants. ► MPAs fail to offer protection against contamination by chemicals. ► Sediments represent the most important reservoirs of PAHs in the marine environment. ► PAH ratio analysis showed a prevalence of pyrolytic origin at most of the MPAs. ► The present study provides the baseline of PAHs levels for future studies.