The Content of Heavy Metals in Bottom Sediments of the Streams of the Sikhote-Alin Biosphere Reserve and the Streams Draining Mines of the Transit Zone of the Reserve

Elevated concentrations of heavy metals, particularly zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd), were found in the bottom sediments of streams draining tin mines within the Sikhote-Alin Biosphere Reserve, exceeding permissible soil levels. The study defined background ranges for iron (Fe), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), Zn, and Cd in the reserve's streams, revealing significant metal enrichment near mining areas. Notably, Cu concentrations remained elevated even 10 km from the mines, while sediments from a gold and silver mine showed increased Cu, manganese (Mn), and lead (Pb) without exceeding permissible limits. Tailing ponds were enriched in Cu and Pb but lacked Cd, Ni, and Zn compared to background levels. The research analyzed fine-grained sediment fractions (<0.1 mm) from reserve streams and mining-affected areas, providing critical data on metal contamination dynamics.

Chernova, E. N., Potikha, E. V., & Nesterenko, O. E. (2015). The Content of Heavy Metals in Bottom Sediments of the Streams of the Sikhote-Alin Biosphere Reserve and the Streams Draining Mines of the Transit Zone of the Reserve. Achievements in the Life Sciences, 9(1), 9–14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.als.2015.05.002