Bioaccumulation of Lead (Pb) in the macroalgae Padina australis Hauck in Makassar Marine Waters, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Marine pollution is a global problem that occurs in coastal areas. Pb lead pollutants derived from waste discharges and Makassar community activities can accumulate on the macroalgae Padina australis Hauck. This study determined the accumulation of Pb on P. australis and assessed the abundance of P. australis in three stations in Makassar marine waters of Lae-lae, Samalona and Barranglompo from November-April 2018. Sampling P. australis was done by purposive sampling method. Data of P. australis abundance was taken using the line transect method. Physico-chemical parameters measured were temperature, salinity, pH, light penetration, current, DO, and BOD. Pb analysis was done using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results showed difference of Pb content in P. australis was found from each research station. The content of Pb at Station I is in the range of 0.0964-0.1388 ppm, Station II 0.0496-0.1050 ppm, and station III 0.0597-0.1035 ppm which has exceeded the water limit specified (> 0.008) ppm. The average concentration of Pb at station I was compared to other stations because Station I was closer to the mainland, with potentially greater entry of heavy metal Pb. Abundance of P. australis at station I were 92 ind/m2, station II 152 ind/m2 and station III were 319 ind/m2. Correlation analysis data showed no significant value (ρ = 0.384, p > 0.05) which meant that the Pb concentration did not affect P. australis abundance.