Assessment of Lead (Pb) Absorption in Selected Macroalgae and Seagrasses from the Red Sea, Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

An assessment of lead (Pb) absorption by macroalgae and seagrasses of the Red Sea, Jazan region, Suadi Arabia, were evaluated. Samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy ICP-AES (Method 3050B). Among all the species of macroalgae and seagrasses Sargassum spp. showed a high concentration of lead (Pb) and recorded the highest level (11.35 ppm) at a station near a sewage plant among the species in this study. In contrast, the least Pb-accumulated species was Cymodocea rotunda. Contamination of lead (Pb) for all macroalgae and seagrasses determined in this study were recorded in ascending order Cymodocea rotunda < Cladophora spp. < Halodule uninervis < Sargassum spp., collected close to the sewage plant. The results obtained from the study could be used for monitoring ecosystem lead pollution and the health of the shoreline.