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Title: The impact of industrial discharges on metal levels in biota of the West Cumbrian coast - 1990
Author: W.J. Langston
Author: N.D. Pope
Document Type: Monograph
Abstract:
A suite of intertidal organisms (Fucus vesiculosus, Littorina littorea, Nucella lapillus , Patella vulgaca, Mytilus edulis) have been used to determine the influence of industrial discharges on metal levels in biota from the Cumbrian Coast between Seascale and the Solway Firth. Sediments and infauna (Scrobicularia plana and Nereis diversicolor) were also sampled at a number of estuarine and harbour sites. The most impacted shoreline was that between Whitehaven and St. Bees where exceptionally high levels of Cd, Cu, Zn, Ni, an Cr occur in tissues. Acute effects are restricted to a relatively small area arguably however chronic contamination for several elements is detectable over the entire survey area. Localised inputs are indicated at other sites (eg. Harrington, [Pb]; Workington and Maryport, [Fe and Mn]), though often factors other than environmental levels can explain the relatively enhanced bioavailability at these sites.
Publisher: National Rivers Authority
Publication Date: 1991
Publication Place: Warrington
Subject Keywords: Water pollutionHeavy metalsCoastal watersEstuariesHarboursAquatic organismsSedimentsIndustrial wastesImpact assessment
Geographic Keywords: EA North WestCumbria
Taxonomic Keywords: Fucus vesiculosusLittorina littoreaNucella lapillusPatella vulgacaMytilus edulisScrobicularia planaNereis diversicolor
Extent: 76
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:3406
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