DISTRIBUTION OF TRACE METALS IN THE STRATIFED KRKA RIVER ESTUARY (CROATIA)

Distribution of trace metal(oid)s (Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, Ni, Co and As) along vertically stratified Krka river estuary was studied. The concentrations of trace metals are maintained at low levels across the estuary during winter, because of low input of trace metals by the Krka River and the lack of permanent diffusive sources. Localized anthropogenic influence was identified in the harbor of Šibenik town and in the two nautical marinas. However, due to the intensive nautical traffic during summer periods, a significant increase of metal concentrations (especially of Cu and Zn) in upper brackish layer was evidenced as a consequence of release of metals from the antifouling paints