Abstract
In the present study, we have assessed the degree of contamination of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn) in ten species of red and brown seaweeds, the seasonal variations in the concentration of metals, and the health risk due to the seaweeds. Overall metal concentrations for red and brown seaweeds followed the order Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd and Pb > Cu > Zn > Cd, respectively. Cd and Pb levels were found to be elevated in both the red and brown seaweeds. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that the sources of Cd and Pb are mainly anthropogenic. Despite the high concentrations of the non-essential metals (Cd and Pb) in the seaweeds, the health risk assessment revealed that they have a lower hazard index. Hence, consumption of edible red and brown seaweeds from the Tuticorin coast may not pose health hazards in humans for the time being.
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•Heavy metal (Cd, Cu, Pb & Zn) concentrations in red & brown seaweed were assessed.•Metal levels in red & brown seaweed is Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd & Pb > Cu > Zn > Cd, respectively.•PCA reveals that Cd & Pb are likely from anthropogenic sources of Tuticorin city.•Hazard index for red & brown seaweeds is 0.29 & 0.26, respectively.•Consumption of red & brown seaweed unlikely to cause human health issues, for now.