Distribution of heavy metals in estuaries of southeast coast of India

95-97Concentration of Zn in water showed higher level in the Vellar estuary when compared to other areas. The Zn and Cu level in sediment was found to be higher in Vellar and Uppanar estuary respectively largely due to their sediment texture and source of metal. A distinct seasonal pattern of both water and sediment metal concentration was observed with higher levels coinciding during monsoon and lower values during summer period