Assessment of Metalic Pollution in Water of Lake Dayet Er-Roumi (Morocco)

Abstract

The Contamination of aquatic ecosystems by heavy metals remains a serious and growing environmental problem. They are present and can persist in water, sediment, fauna, and flora. Therefore, the protection of these ecosystems is essential for the balance of aquatic species. The lake Dayet Er-Roumi is the only permanent natural lake in the region of Khemisset (Morocco), this wetland is also subject to various sources of anthropogenic pollution. In this context, we carried out this study, which relates to the evaluation of the level of contamination of lake water by trace metallic elements (Manganese, Aluminum, Lead, and Barium). It aims to characterize the spatial and temporal variation of trace element metal contamination during winter and summer in order to assess the effects of anthropogenic activities on this ecosystem. The metallic analysis was carried out at seven measurement points. Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES) was used to measure the concentration of heavy metals. The results were analyzed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) methods. The results found reveal globally, a high concentration of Al and Mn, during both seasons, and a presence at Medium dose of Pb during the summer season. These concentrations exceed the quality standards of the fish waters and the Canadian standards on the protection of the aquatic life, with a low presence of Barium (0,075 mg/l). These results show metallic pollution in lake water, which requires an intervention. The protection and the sustainable conservation of this hydrological system classified site of biological and ecological interest is necessary and imperative.