Assessment of metals contamination in sediment and water of Sungai Gemang, Jeli, Kelantan

¹ Faculty of Earth Science, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, Jeli, Kelantan
² Environment & Sustainable Development Research Group, Faculty of Earth Science, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, Jeli, Kelantan

^* Corresponding author: shahirul@umk.edu.my

Abstract

You Sediment and water contamination by metals poses a significant environmental risk to aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Concerns about the environmental and health impacts of these metals have grown, emphasizing the need for comprehensive analysis. Sungai Gemang, located near a residential area, serves as a vital source of water and protein. Due to the potential carcinogenic and toxic nature of these contaminants, their impact on both the environment and human health has raised considerable concern. Therefore, this study aims to determine the concentrations of metals (Zn, Pb, Ni, Cu) in the sediment and water samples of Sungai Gemang. Additionally, the correlation between metal concentrations in sediment and water samples was studied. Risk characterization was analyzed using Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo). The results indicate a low distribution of metal concentrations in Sungai Gemang, suggesting an uncontaminated status of the water sources. While the water quality meets acceptance standards, the elevated metal concentrations in sediment compared to water highlight the dynamic interplay between water and sediment. This underscores the importance of sustainable management practices for this crucial aquatic ecosystem.