MERCURY POLLUTION IN THE UPPER BENI RIVER, AMAZONIAN BASIN : BOLIVIA

摘要: This paper reports the extent of mercury contamination Bolivian River system in Amazon drainage basin. Surveys were conducted water fish and human hair to determine contamination. It was found that high concentrations noted from consumers carnivorous species. The potential health risk consumption evident people living areas near gold mining sites. Results revealed release into ecosystem during extraction Bolivia represents direct environmental threats. These threats affect both not only but also more importantly downstream at Andean basin outlet. Hence immediate attention is required for design appropriate public remedial measures prevent further