| Based on the inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) data of concentrations of 7 heavy metals (including Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb and As) in suspended particles and surface sediments samples collected at 6 and 2 13-hours-mooring stations, respectively, in Quanzhou Bay. The average contents of Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Pb, and Cd are 1.610-0.359, 0.730-0.150, 2.249-0.319, 6.421-1.266, 0.131-0.027, 4.176-1.101 μg/L and 17.526-2.260 ng/L, respectively, in different stations in the suspended particles and are 65.3-82.6, 37.8-39.8, 37.4-51.4, 121.0-172.8, 3.3-3.4, 42.2-76.9 and 0.217-0.493 μg/g, respectively, in the surface sediments of two stations. The concentrations of heavy metals in suspended particles varied significantly and the distribution patterns corresponded to the tidal and estuarine processes at the estuary area in a tidal cycle. While at the outer area, the varieties of concentrations were relatively unobvious and the re-suspension from surface sediments might play a significant role on distribution patterns of heavy metals in suspended particles. In a tidal cycle, the varieties of heavy metals concentrations in surface sediments were corresponding to that in suspended particles', which indicated that exchanges of heavy metals existed between surface sediments and suspended particles. These study results provide a reference to comprehensive understanding on distribution, migration and exchange of heavy metals in the Quanzhou Bay. |
