Metals in water, sediments, and biota of an offshore oil exploration area in the Potiguar Basin, Northeastern Brazil

摘要: Metal concentrations were evaluated in water, bottom sediments, and biota four field campaigns from 2002 to 2004 the Potiguar Basin, northeastern Brazil, where offshore oil exploration occurs. Analyses performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry optical emission spectrometry. Total metal water (dissolved + particulate) sediments range expected for coastal oceanic areas. Abnormally high waters only found Ba (80 μg l−1) Mn (12 μg l−1) at releasing point of one outfalls, other metals, stations closer shore, suggesting continental inputs. In Fe showed abnormal effluent point. spatial distribution shelf influence silt–clay fraction distribution, with deeper edge shelf, which are much richer showing higher than shallower typically dominated carbonates. estuarine (mollusks crustaceans) marine (fish) organisms highest oysters (Crassostrea rhizophorae). Fish tissues similar between influenced area a control site. The results within reported pristine environments without metals contamination. global suggest small, if any, alteration due activity Basin. For monitoring purposes, inputs clay–silt need be taken into consideration interpreting environmental results.