Heavy metals in water, sediments, and chironomids

Abstract

Distribution of copper, chromium, lead, and zinc in the water, sediments, and chironomids was studied at five stations in Skeleton Creek, Oklahoma, a stream receiving oil refinery and municipal wastewater effluents, February through October 1973. Copper, chromium, and zinc concentrations in the water were higher in winter than in summer, and highest concentrations generally occurred just below the outfall. Metals in sediments were generally higher in summer than in winter and highest concentrations occurred farther downstream. Warm water temperature and the concomitant increased microbial activity probably were responsible for higher levels in sediments in summer. Organic matter and heavy metals in the sediments were related positively in summer, but no relationship was evident in winter. The < 0.5 mm particle size generally increased downstream and possibly affected the distribution of organic matter in Skeleton Creek. Ammonium acetate extractions were ineffective in removing ion exchangeable metals from sediments indicating that heavy metals are not adsorbed on the surfaces.