Seasonal Variability of Heavy Metals in Surface Sediment of Lake Sapanca, Turkey

Lake Sapanca is exposed to heavy urbanization and industrialization because of its natural beauty and its proximity to the metropolitan İstanbul, Turkey. In this study, it was aimed to investigate seasonal changes of some heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Zn and Cd) concentration of surface sediment. Nine different stations were chosen as sampling points. Samples were taken every three months and the seasonal and annual average concentration of the elements were determined. Seasonal highest values of heavy metals were observed as follows; Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni and Zn in Summer, Cd in Autumn. There was no seasonal difference for Pb, Cr and Cd. It seems that Lake Sapanca has not been polluted yet. However, it was found that Cu and Ni concentrations in surface sediment exceed lowest effect level.