Physicochemical analysis and metallic trace elements assessment in aquatic matrices of the coastal region of Mahdia, Tunisia

Abstract

Environmental contamination by trace metallic elements has become an increasingly urgent issue, necessitating immediate scientific attention. This study employed a combination of physicochemical and ecotoxicological analyses to evaluate the environmental quality of the coastal region of Mahdia, Tunisia. The investigation focused on toxic elements across various environmental and food matrices, including water, sediments, plants, and fish, to provide a holistic assessment of contamination levels along the Mahdia coastline. Elemental analyses, performed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, revealed significant contamination in the region. Particularly high concentrations of barium (369.90 ± 223.23 mg/kg) and manganese (81.42 ± 40.01 mg/kg) were detected at the Rejiche coastal site. Additionally, the coastal site of La Chebba exhibited elevated titanium levels, averaging 41.40 ± 14.86 mg/kg, which were significantly higher than those at other studied sites. The biological matrices analyzed showed that Posidonia oceanica leaves and the tissues of fish species such as Sparus aurata and Sarpa salpa were the most contaminated. These findings indicate that these species could serve as reliable bioindicators for monitoring marine contamination. In conclusion, the significant levels of toxic trace elements detected along the Mahdia coast underscore the pressing need for targeted interventions to mitigate environmental pollution. Urgent and coordinated efforts are essential to address this issue and safeguard the ecological integrity and public health of the region.