Geochemistry of major and trace elements in sediments of Ghazaouet Bay (western Algeria): An assessment of metal pollution

Trace metals contaminations which impact littoral ecosystems result mainly from human activities (industrial, agricultural, or urban). Thus, the particles exported and accumulated in the coastal sediments are accurate anthropic pressure gauges on this kind of environment. Spatial variations of major and trace elements concentrations in the sediments of Ghazaouet Bay (Western coast of Algeria) have been monitored between July 2010 and June 2011. Contrasted gradients of trace metals concentrations are highlighted between the preserved zones and the strongly impacted areas. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and the enrichment factors (EF) show that the sediments in this coastal zone are highly polluted, especially by Zn, Cd, Cu, and Pb.