Using dominant macroalgae and seagrass in Sinop coastline of the Black Sea as biomonitor for determination of heavy metal pollution

In this study, heavy metal concentrations of macroalgae and seagrasses used as biomonitor in order to determine pollution levels of the coastal line of Sinop Province in Turkey are evaluated together with water and sediment associations. In Turkey Black Sea waters, leaf-water and root-sediment associations of seagrasses were first identified. This study was performed seasonally in Türkeli, Ayancık, Inceburun, Akliman, Tersane, Karakum, DSI and Gerze stations. Heavy metal levels of dominant macroalgae and sea grasses with water and sediment have been measured by ICP-MS apparatus. Macroalgae and sea grasses absorb different concentrations of heavy metals depending on many various factors. As a result of the study, there were differences according to seasons and stations. There is no intense pollution in Sinop where industry does not develop. However, discharges of agricultural and domestic wastes continuously create pollution pressure. In order to identify pollutants and their effects, macroalgae and seagrasses are proposed as biological quality elements under EU-MSFD. For this reason, it is important to monitor the current situation of pollution regularly with living organisms in the water to provide GES.