Spatial and temporal variations of PAHs in surface sediments of estuarine and coast of CanGio wetland, Vietnam

Surface sediments from estuarine and coast of CanGio wetland (CGW) of Hochiminh City, Vietnam, were investigated to identify the spatial and temporal variations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The total PAHs showed wide variation but similar to patterns observed (F = 0.901, p = 0.46) in LongTau (31 +/- 77 ng/g dry weight, n = 13), SoaiRap (53 +/- 81, n = 4), ThiVai (60 +/- 62, n = 10) estuaries, and coastal areas (112 +/- 211, n = 9). A decreasing trend in the wet season (F = 8.8, p = 0.01) reflected that inland sources such as wastewater discharged and atmospherically transported contaminants contributed to PAHs in sediments. The risk posed by the PAHs in the coastal and estuarine areas of CGW is still negligible. The present study provides baseline data, which can be used for regular monitoring and future strategy of environmental protection for the study area.

Automated summary

The study conducted in CanGio wetland of Hochiminh City, Vietnam revealed wide variation in total PAHs in surface sediments, with similar patterns observed in other estuaries and coastal areas. A decreasing trend of PAHs in the wet season was attributed to inland sources such as wastewater discharge and atmospherically transported contaminants, posing a negligible risk in the coastal and estuarine areas of CGW. This study provides baseline data for regular monitoring and future environmental protection strategies in the study area.