Trace metal concentration in some marine algae of the Maharashtra coast (India)

Abstract

74 marine algal species representing Chlorophyta, Phaeophyta and Rhodophyta from ten different stations along the Maharashtra Coast were analysed for the concentration of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb Concentration varies with species and also from station to station The concentration of Fe shows a wide range from 115-31380 ppm, followed by Mn from 41-739 ppm Co, Ni Cu, Zn and Pb were comparatively lower than Fe and Mn Statistical analysis indicates significant variation of trace-metal concentration in different species and no variation with algal groups In general filamentous algae show more concentration of all the seven metals The effect of pollution on algae is discussed in relation to the concentration of trace metals