TRACE METALS IN THE DEEP SOUTHERN ADRIATIC SEA SEDIMENTS (MEDITERRANEAN SEA)

Anthropogenic trace metal concentrations were studied in sediments of the South Adriatic basin. This study shows that in some Anthropogenic trace metal concentrations were studied in sediments of the South Adriatic basin. This study shows that in some Mediterranean sedimentation systems, the anthropogenic trace metal contamination is affecting not only the coastal areas and continental shelf, but is transferred to some extent also in the adjacent continental slope and deep basin. Complex morphology and sedimentary processes are responsible for the spatial differences in trace metal concentrations between different sub-areas of the South Adriatic. Historical trace metal profiles show trends that were increasing in the 20 century and decreasing in the last 30 years.