Distribution, levels, sources and risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the bottom sediments of a Mediterranean river under multiple anthropopressures (Soummam River), Algeria

• Published in: Marine pollution bulletin 2024-05, Vol.202, p.116416-116416, Article 116416
• Main Authors: Bensadi, Lydia, Azzoug, Moufok, Benslimane, Abdelhakim, Benlaribi, Rabia, Bouledouar, Samira, Merzeg, Farid Ait
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Algeria; biomass; combustion; ecological restoration; Environmental Monitoring; Geologic Sediments - chemistry; human health; Humans; marine pollution; petroleum; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons - analysis; Principal Component Analysis; risk; Risk Assessment; rivers; Rivers - chemistry; sediment contamination; Sediment pollution; Soummam River; toxicity; Water Pollutants, Chemical - analysis; wetlands
• ISSN: 0025-326X; 1879-3363
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116416

The Soummam River, a vital watercourse in Algeria is threatened by anthropogenic activities despite its protected wetland status. This study is the first to assess sediment pollution in the Soummam River, examining levels, compositions, sources of 16 PAHs and their effects on the environment and human health. Analysis employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and molecular diagnostic ratios pointed to petrogenic sources, likely stemming from petroleum leaks originating from aging pipeline and vehicles, as well as pyrogenic sources arising from vehicle exhaust and biomass combustion. Environmental and health risks were assessed through risk quotients (RQ), Sediments Quality Guidelines (SQG) and Total Lifetime Cancer Risk (TLCR). Ecological risk was found to range from moderate to high, with anticipated biological impacts, while cancer risk was deemed low. Toxicity assessment, measured by TEQ, revealed that the majority of monitoring stations exceeded safe levels. Consequently, urgent action by local authorities is warranted to implement ecosystem rehabilitation measures. [Display omitted] •Concentrations of PAHs ranged from 1862.75 ng/g to 22,939.98 ng/g.•Diagnostic ratios and PCA revealed a combination of petrogenic and pyrogenic inputs.•Ecological risk was evaluated by RQ and SQG and was classified as moderate to high.•Total Life Time Cancer (TLCR) indicated a low risk.•Most of the stations exceeded the safe level for toxicity.