Heavy metals in sediments of the lower Paraíba do Sul River and Estuary, R.J., Brazil.

摘要: The Paraiba do Sul River receives both industrial and domestic wastes, mostly without any treatment. According to previous studies performed in the mid point portion of river, as well as, some its tributaries (Paraibuna, Pomba Muriae Rivers), contamination by heavy metals has been reported. main source these pollutants are effluents urban wastes (Torres, 1992; Malm, 1986; Azcue, 1987) gold mining activities (Pomba Rivers) (Souza, 1994). Although pollution sources were identified, metal concentrations observed continental shelf near mouth River, showed little or no antropogenic influence, could be considered (Carvalho, Lacerda et al, 1993). Therefore, lower section may act an efficient trap for metals, decreasing their concentration coastal waters. a drainage area approximately 55.400 km 2