Ecological Risk Due to Heavy Metal Contamination in Sediment and Water of Natural Wetlands with Tourist Influence in the Central Region of Peru

In this study, the quality of sediment and surface water in two natural wetlands, Paca Tragadero, central region Peru was evaluated using pollution indices, including geoaccumulation index, pollutant load modified degree, potential ecological risk site rank for four heavy metals. Principal component analysis used to identify metal contaminant sources. The determination Fe, Zn, Pb, As performed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. average concentrations metals sediments both lagoons decreased order Fe > Zn Pb As. contamination indices determined that are elements contribute most environmental degradation wetlands. There is a strong correlation between values degree contamination, revealing wetland has moderate risk, while Tragadero presents high considerable risk. application index showed more than 50% sampling sites have severe contamination. principal presented 79.2% total variance. Finally, results study essential carry out preventive actions protection these lake ecosystems great importance many activities, such as bird watching.