A preliminary investigation on the distribution of heavy metals in surface sediments of the Cona tidal marsh (Venice Lagoon)

Data are from the two series of surface sediment samplings in an interface area between the Venice Lagoon and the mainland. The distribution of heavy metals gives a correlation with polluted source-sites—identified in the channel systems with a highly polluted input—and allows us to identify the localities of accumulation. Restricted to the estuary of the river tributary transporting a high concentration of pollutants into a tidal marsh area of the lagoon, the study shows the effect of the fresh water forcing to distribute heavy metals on surface sediments. Within the scope of this preliminary investigation, indications from sampling identify a sector of the «Palude di Cona» in this estuary, which is highly suitable for detailed studies on processes affecting heavy-metal distributions in bottom surface sediments of shallow-water areas.