Heavy metals in Mercenaria mercenaria and sediments from the New Bedford Harbor region of Buzzard's Bay, Massachusetts

Journal Article · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1981 · Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01622065· OSTI ID:6594339

Genest, P E ^[1]; Hatch, W I

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1. Southeastern Massachusetts Univ., North Dartmouth

M. mercenaria and sediments from the New Bedford region were analyzed for cadmium, copper, iron, lead, and zinc to investigate some of the relationships between environmental and organismal levels. It appears that at present there is no major contamination of clams or sediments in the areas studied. However, since levels of some metals approached the permissible limits at times, it would obviously be beneficial if all sources of pollution to the area could be identified and regulated. It is suggested that harvesting of clams could be managed seasonally so that tissue contaminants are at their periodic minima. For these metals late summer, fall, and winter appear to be favorable times. It is also suggested that clams harvested in the vicinity of recently dredged areas be monitored for heavy metal levels. The need for a continuous monitoring program for heavy metals and other toxic substances for New Bedford and surrounding areas to insure public safety is recommended.

• OSTI ID: 6594339
• Journal Information: Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol.; (United States), Journal Name: Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol.; (United States) Vol. 26:1; ISSN BECTA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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