This overview presents in detail the state of knowledge of the abilities of various
components of the Baltic Sea environment to accumulate trace elements and
radionuclides. Particular components of the Baltic ecosystem (abiotic and biotic)
are considered as potential monitors of pollutants. The use of seaweeds, e.g. Fucus
vesiculosus or Zostera marina is recommended, also molluscs, e.g. Mytilus edulis,
for biomonitoring surveys of metal pollutants and radionuclides in the Baltic Sea.
However, several requirements need to be met if results are to be reliable. Since
metal levels and radionuclide activities in the growing tips of F. vesiculosus reflect
exclusively the levels of their dissolved species in the ambient seawater, this alga is
very useful for monitoring dissolved species of metal pollutants and radioisotopes
in the Baltic ecosystem. In contrast, M. edulis, a filter feeder is an appropriate tool
for monitoring trace elements occurring in both chemical forms, i.e. dissolved and
suspended species. Therefore, full information on the bioavailability and toxicity
of heavy metals (depending on their chemical speciation) as pollutants of the
Baltic Sea can be obtained if at least two biomonitoring organisms are applied
simultaneously, e.g. F. vesiculosus and M. edulis. Moreover, the data matrix can
be interpreted more accurately if not only trace element but also macroelement
concentrations (Ca, Mg, Na, K) in these two representatives of Baltic phytoand
zoobenthos are taken into consideration; this point requires special attention. Two coastal species of fish, i.e. Zoarces viviparus and Perca fluviatilis, are good
biomonitors of metallic contaminants, so their use as sentinels is recommended.
The budgets of chemical elements and the ecological status of the Baltic Sea are
presented. Several ‘blacksp ots’, e.g. large estuaries and seaport towns, heavily
polluted by trace elements, are identified in the Baltic Sea and other enclosed
seas such the Mediterranean and the BlackS eas. Of these seas, the Baltic is the
most heavily loaded with trace elements and organic pollutants. The overview
identifies gaps in our environmental knowledge of the Baltic Sea, and sets out
possible priorities, key areas or strategies for future research.
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