Relation of Some Hydrochemicals with Hydrogen Sulphide Levels in Sediments of Lake Burullus, Egypt

Abstract

Lake Burullus, as one of the northern deltaic lakes in Egypt, is an important economic, recreational and Fish breeding reservoir. The study used nine georeferenced stations to assess hydrogen sulphide (H2S) levels, its relationship with some selected hydrochemical parameters, and the implication on this lake’s biota. The study reveals that areas mostly affected by drainage water with high load of organic matter, aid to the production of H2S into sediments and dispersion to water. The results indicate that H2S levels in lake sediments increase with increasing water temperature, biological oxygen demand (BOD) and load of organic matter (OM) in water. On the other hand, clear water areas with high oxygen levels aid in reducing levels of H2S in sediments as proved from correlation analysis. The positive correlation between variables as OM and BOD with H2S was observed using the distribution maps. The amount of different wastes, particularly in large quantities, increase the level of H2S, and therefore affected biota so it is highly recommended to treat wastewater to conserve the biodiversity of this lake.