Metal Pollution and Marine Organisms

Dear colleagues,

Marine ecosystems are under serious threat due to ongoing pollution. In particular, metal contamination is a global concern that has attracted critical attention. Trace metals (e.g., cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), etc.) occur naturally in the environment mainly through rock erosion and weathering; however, the ever-increasing human settlement in coastal areas and associated urbanization and intensification of anthropogenic activities (e.g., exploitation of natural resources, agricultural practices, industrial wastes, etc.) has increased their concentration in the marine environment in such a way that may bioaccumulate and pose toxicity to the living organisms. Moreover, they can be widely disseminated through atmospheric and oceanic currents.

These metals represent a serious concern due to their toxicity, persistence and their capacity to bioaccumulate in the marine biota as well as to biomagnify through the trophic chains, posing ecological and health risks. This may impact not only individuals but also populations, communities, species interactions and ecosystem functioning.

Thus, studies aiming to evaluate the occurrence and distribution of metal pollution in the marine environment and associated impact are essential in order to improve relevant biological understanding and better protect marine organisms and ecosystems, especially in the coastal areas.

This Species Issue invites the submission of relevant frontline articles and review papers to share recent discoveries into the causes, impacts and solutions for metal pollution in the marine environment. We are particularly eager to publish findings specifically on risk assessment, (bio)monitoring, toxicity and bioaccumulation studies in marine organisms from the different trophic levels as well as remediation processes (conventional vs. biological treatments).

Contributions to establishing background concentrations and spatial distribution of metal pollution in sediment and water compartments are also welcome, as are novel methodologies to use in risk assessment and (bio)monitoring.

Dr. Hugo C. Vieira
Dr. Maria Bordalo e Sá
Guest Editors

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