ABSTRACT
The spatio-temporal trend of trace metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in a tropical urban estuary under the influence of monsoon was determined using diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) in situ samplers. Three different climatic periods were observed: period 1, dry with dredging activity; period 2, intermediate meaning from dry to wet event; and period 3, wet having continuous rainfall. Conforming to monsoon regimes, these periods correspond to the following: transition from winter to summer, winter, and summer monsoons, respectively. The distinction of each period is defined by their specific hydrological and physico-chemical conditions. Substantial concentrations of the trace metals were detected. The distribution and trend of the trace metals under the challenge of a tropical climate were able to follow using DGT as a sensitive in situ sampler. In order to identify the differences among periods, statistical analyses were performed. This allowed discriminating period 2 (oxic water) as significantly different compared to other periods. The spatio-temporal analysis was then applied in order to distinguish the trend of the trace metals. Results showed that the trend of trace metals can be described according to their response to (i) seasonal variations (Cd and Cr), (ii) spatio-temporal conditions (Co, Cu, Ni, and Pb), and (iii) neither (i) nor (ii) meaning exhibiting no response or having constant change (Zn). The correlation of the trace metals and the physico-chemical parameters reveals that Cd, Co, Cu, and Cr are proportional to the dissolved oxygen (DO), Cd and Ni are correlated pH, and Zn lightly influenced by salinity.
