Spatial patterns and ecological risks of heavy metals in sediments from China's major lakes: a multi-indicator...

Heavy metal contamination in lake sediments poses significant ecological and health risks, yet comprehensive national-scale assessments remain limited. This study systematically evaluates the spatial distribution, ecological risks, and human health implications of heavy metals Cu, Zn, Pb, Cr, Cd, and As in sediments from 41 representative large lakes across China. Analyses were conducted using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), the geoaccumulation index (I_geo), the potential ecological risk index (PERI), and health risk models. Spatial analysis via geographic information systems (GIS) revealed that heavy metal contamination was generally higher in eastern lakes (0.19-376.00 mg/kg) than in western lakes (0.17-339.00 mg/kg), with southwestern lakes (11.55-339.00 mg/kg) emerging as a notable pollution hotspot. Cd was identified as the predominant contributor to ecological risk, with 80% of lakes exceeding moderate risk thresholds (PERI > 60). Severe Cd pollution hotspots were observed notably in Chaohu (34.5 mg/kg), Dianchi (1.30 mg/kg), and Fuxian (7.90 mg/kg) lakes. Non-carcinogenic risk (hazard quotient (HQ) < 1) for Cd, Pb, Zn, and Cu were negligible, and carcinogenic risks for Cr and As (10⁻⁵-10⁻⁴) remained within acceptable limits. This multi-metric assessment underscores Cd as a priority pollutant requiring urgent mitigation. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers to design region-specific pollution control strategies and advance sustainable lake management in China.