Heavy metal and metalloid contamination in the sediments of the Spekboom River, South Africa

Abstract The impact of anthropogenic activities such as mining, agriculture and urbanization is causing heavy metal contamination in many freshwater ecosystems. concentrations eight elements (As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb Zn) the Spekboom River, South Africa, were studied using enrichment factor (EF) geo-accumulation index (I geo ) to assess extent pollution river. Sediment samples collected analyzed sequential inductively coupled plasma—optical emission spectrometry. results showed deterioration sediment quality with high concentration Cr Ni at all sites, this a reflection from various area. current levels could be detrimental river may pose serious threat aquatic organisms humans, act secondary source water. It therefore recommended that urgent action should taken control effluents order prevent further pollution.