Potentially toxic elements status and distribution in Usangu agroecosystem-Tanzania

This study was conducted to highlight status and distribution of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in Usangu agroecosystem-Tanzania. The involved 198 soil samples from 10 irrigation schemes including three land use. concentrations selected PTEs (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn, As, Hg, Co, Nie etc.) were determined estimate status, distribution, contamination hierarchy. total bioavailable by aqua regia digestion Mehlich 3 methods, respectively. We observed variable concentration (in mg/kg) among use such as Cr (15), Co (2.9), Fe (7371), Mn (263), Zn (18.2). Also, other µg/kg) As (1382), Cd (22), Cu (3342), Hg (3.3), Ni (4107), Pb (5661). It that 99.5, 87, 66 12% the studied soils had Fe, Se above allowable threshold agricultural soils, fraction lower than values different schemes, higher associated with intensifications. agroecosystem be at level cause damaging effect invertebrates, plants, animals human if remain unregulated. highlights baseline information evidence for site-specific environmental management planning a scientific basis required establish ensure health food safety.