Assessment of heavy metal content in rivers and sediments: exploring relationships with land use and soil characteristics
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Heavy metal(s) (HM, HMs) are essential to biological and environmental processes, but excessive concentration threaten ecosystems and human health. This study assessed HM concentrations in river water and sediments, examining their relationships with land use and soil characteristics. A total of 26 sampling points were selected across Costa Rica, primarily based on land use: Arenal, Caño Negro, Tempisque, Pital, Toro, Tigre, Rincón, Sierpe, Torres, Poás, Segundo, Pacuare, Penshurt, and Birrís. The sampling period extended from September 2017 to July 2020. Most sampling sites showed detectable HM levels, with arsenic, nickel, and mercury sometimes exceeding thresholds for probable toxicity, most metals in sediments fell within an “undefined toxicity” range, though cadmium levels were notably high. Predictive models in sediments were more accurate: lead (70%), chromium (73%), arsenic (71%), and nickel (74%). The main predictors are: Urban land use (89%) for Lead; industrial activity (41.5%) and bare soil (17.7%) for Chromium; Cane (52%), Coffee (14%) and Cassava (13%) for Arsenic; and Bare Soil (78%) for Nickel. Models showed variable and complex patterns, but bivariate correlations were strong (80%, 90%, and 95%). Effective management strategies and continuous monitoring are critical to reducing contamination risks and protecting river ecosystems and water quality.
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