Assessment of heavy metals distribution in Barguzin River aquatic system (Lake Baikal basin)

Abstract

This study is devoted to the analysis of the distribution of heavy metals in the aquatic system of the Barguzin River. This is one of the largest rivers of the Baikal basin. The element composition of surface water, bottom sediments, water plants (
L., Potamogeton perfoliatus L., Hippuris vulgaris L., Nymphoides peltata (S.G. Gmelin) O. Kuntze) and fish (Abramis brama, Cyprinus rubrofuscus, Perca fluviatilis, Rutilus rutilus lacustris) of the Barguzin River is studied. The following sequence of the accumulation of metals in aquatic plants: Mn > Fe > u (Zn) > r > Ni > o > Pb > Cd > Hg is established. Hippuris vulgaris L. contains the highest concentration of the studied metals. In the distribution of metals over the body of the studied fish species the following sequence Zn Fe> Cu Mn Cr > Pb> Ni Cd> Hg is observed. There is an accumulation of zinc, manganese and chromium in fish scales, and iron, lead in the liver. The obtained data of the distribution of heavy metals broadens and clarify the understanding of the biochemical characteristics of aquatic system components. This research provides one of the important steps for the development of environmental standards and environmental risk assessments.