Seasonal investigation of heavy metal deposits of water, sediment and some economic fish species of West Black Sea coasts

In this study, it was aimed to determine the seasonal variation of heavy metal pollution in Western Black Sea coast. For this purpose, water, sediment and fish (Engraulis encrasicolus, Sarda sarda, Pomatomus saltatrix, Merlangius euxmus) samples were obtained from Kastamonu, Sinop and Zonguldak shores in December 2016, March 2017, June 2017 and September 2017; afterwards Mn, Cd, Zn, Cu, Fe, Ni and Pb contents of these samples were determined. After performing necessary laboratory practices and statistical analyzes, the data obtained were evaluated by comparing with the literature. As a result, it has been determined that the amount of heavy metal in water and sediment supports each other. It was concluded that the factors affecting the differences between stations are geological structure, industry and industrial activities, quantity and diversity of pollutants nearby. It was seen that the heavy metal levels detected in the muscle tissue of the fish are within the consumable limits according to the international and local standards. In general, heavy metal levels were found to be equal or less than the literature data. For this reason, it can be said that heavy metal pollution on the coasts of Kastamonu, Sinop and Zonguldak has not reached a dangerous level yet. Finally, similar pollution studies should be carried out at regular intervals and reported routinely to the competent authorities.