Pollution analysis of metals in the sediments of lagoon lakes in Türkiye: Toxicological risk assessment and source insights

This study addresses gaps in understanding the distribution, sources, and health risks of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the sediments of lagoon lakes Akgöl and Simenit in Türkiye. Sediment samples from 16 locations were analyzed for Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Cr, Ni, As, Pb, Cd, and Hg. Findings indicate higher concentrations of Fe and Mn in Simenit Lake and elevated levels of Cr and Ni in both lakes. The Enrichment Factor (EF), Contamination Factor (CF), and Pollution Load Index (PLI) were used to evaluate contamination levels in sediments, while sediment quality guidelines and the Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI) assessed ecotoxicological risks. Results reveal moderate to high pollution in Simenit Lake,…