Anthropogenic trace metals in Setiu Wetland: Spatial and seasonal distribution and implications for environmental health

The growing urban wastewater volume poses a major global environmental challenge, especially in developing nations where inadequate treatment and discharge impact clean water availability. This study focused on Setiu Wetland, aiming to analyze seasonal and spatial variations of trace metals in particulate form from anthropogenic and pathogenic sources. Surface water samples were collected from multiple stations, measuring physical parameters like salinity, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Samples were filtered using ultrafiltration and analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Correlations between trace metals and other parameters were examined to understand their dynamics in the area. The study found that particulate trace metals were influenced by anthropogenic sources, including municipal, industrial, agricultural, and domestic wastewater discharge. The measured concentrations for Cd, Cu, Pb, Fe, and Zn were 10.9 & PLUSMN; 5.1, 31.8 & PLUSMN; 16.8, 72.5 & PLUSMN; 28.5, 20,206 & PLUSMN; 17,929, and 46,742 & PLUSMN; 30,898 & mu;g/g, respectively, indicating their significant presence. To gain deeper insights, a model incorporating principal component analysis (PCA) analyzed the relationships between trace metals, dissolved oxygen levels, and factors like pH, temperature, salinity, and DOC. Regression techniques predicted Cd, Zn, and Fe concentrations based on salinity, with pH serving as an additional predictor for Cu. Moreover, Pb concentration was influenced by temperature, dissolved oxygen, and dissolved organic carbon. These findings emphasize the importance of regular monitoring and assessment of trace metals in protected tropical areas and wetlands, helping mitigate environmental risks associated with wastewater discharge and preserving these ecosystems.

Automated summary

This study focused on analyzing the seasonal and spatial variations of particulate trace metals in Setiu Wetland, Malaysia. It found that these trace metals were influenced by anthropogenic sources, including municipal, industrial, agricultural, and domestic wastewater discharge. The study also identified correlations between trace metals and other parameters. The findings emphasize the importance of regular monitoring and assessment of trace metals in protected tropical areas and wetlands.