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Petroleum hydrocarbon contamination in Nelson Lagoon, Alaska, sampling three different matrices
Ellen W Lance1, Angela C Matz, Mari K Reeves
1Anchorage Fish and Wildlife Field Office, 605 W. 4th Ave. Rm G61, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States. Ellen_Lance@fws.gov
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|August 21, 2012
Summary
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels in Alaska's Nelson Lagoon were generally low. However, benzo(a)pyrene concentrations in mussels were comparable to industrialized areas, indicating potential localized risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Marine Biology
- Ecotoxicology
Background:
- Nelson Lagoon, Alaska, is considered a relatively pristine marine environment.
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are common environmental contaminants.
- Understanding PAH distribution is crucial for assessing ecosystem health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure and compare Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) levels in sediments, bivalves, and semi-permeable membrane devices (SPMDs) within Nelson Lagoon.
- To evaluate the influence of different sampling media on PAH contamination assessments.
- To identify specific PAH compounds and their sources in this Alaskan marine environment.
Main Methods:
- Sediment, blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) tissue, and SPMD samples were collected from Nelson Lagoon.
- PAH concentrations were analyzed across a range of molecular weights.
- Comparison of PAH profiles across different environmental matrices.
Main Results:
- Overall PAH levels in Nelson Lagoon were low, aligning with global background concentrations.
- Blue mussels exhibited a broad range of PAH concentrations in their tissues.
- SPMDs detected lower molecular weight PAHs (2-3 rings) from the dissolved phase, while sediments contained higher molecular weight PAHs (5-6 rings) associated with particulate matter.
- Benzo(a)pyrene, a known carcinogen, was detected in mussels at levels comparable to those found in industrialized Alaskan harbors.
Conclusions:
- Sampling media significantly impacts the interpretation of PAH contamination data.
- While Nelson Lagoon is generally pristine, the presence of benzo(a)pyrene in mussels at concerning levels warrants further investigation.
- PAH sources may differ based on their molecular weight and association with dissolved or particulate phases.
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