The use of pectinatella magnifica as bioindicator for heavy metals pollution in danube delta

Water pollution with heavy metals is a persistent and hazardous issue, due to these pollutants incapacity to decompose and their tendency to accumulate in biota. These effects extend on the aquatic ecosystems from Danube Delta, which are subjected to anthropogenic pressures, due to intensive agriculture practices, intense tourism activities and the lack of sewage systems. In the context of global warming effects, alien species are developing in the waters of Danube Delta, such as Pectinatella magnifica. The present study explores the hypostasis according to which the aforementioned bryozoan can be used as a suitable bioindicator for heavy metals pollution in Soschi Lake, Danube Delta. Samples of water, sediments and biota were collected from the study area and the following metals were analysed: cadmium, lead, nickel, chromium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese and cobalt. The bioaccumulation factor was calculated, in order to highlight the accumulation potential of the bryozoan. The obtained values of metals concentration were compared to the national regulation related to the quality of surface waters. The following accumulation trend was identified in the bryozoan: Fe>Zn>Mn>Cu>Ni>Cr>Co>Cd>Pb.