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Description:
Author(s):
Pait, A. S., Whitall, D. R, Jeffrey, C. F. G, Caldow, C., Mason, A. L., Lauenstein, G. G, Christensen, J. D.
Title:
Chemical contamination in southwest Puerto Rico: An assessment of trace and major elements in nearshore sediments
Publication Date:
2008
Journal Title:
Marine Pollution Bulletin
Volume:
56
Issue:
11
Page(s):
1953-1956
Abstract:
"Occurring in tropical and subtropical waters, coral reefs are among the most biologically rich ecosystems on earth, and provide humans with living resources and services that have been valued at $375 billion per year (Costanza et al., 1997). It has been estimated by Bryant et al. (1998), however, that 58% of the worlds coral reefs are at medium to high risk from overexploitation, coastal development, and pollution from inland and marine based sources. Bryant et al. (1998) concluded that pollution (both inland and marine based) is responsible for 34% of the coral reefs rated at medium to high risk. Although pollution is often cited as a major factor in the decline of coral reefs, the degree to which pollution and more specifically chemical contaminants are present in coral reef areas is for the most part unknown...."
Keywords:
Southwest Puerto Rico; La Parguera; Trace elements; Metals; Coral reef ecosystems; Pollution
Electronic DOI:
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