Heavy metals are generally defined as a group of chemical elements, commonly associated to the transition metals, that are characterized by their high atomic weight, by having a specific gravity greater than 4.0, and a density greater than 5 g/cm3. For this research, one of the most important characteristics of a heavy metal is that it exhibits the potential for toxicity when it accumulates in living tissue. Heavy metals are relatively rare natural components in the earth's crust and are naturally introduced to the environment by geochemical activities, however, almost all human activities have the potential to introduce heavy metals into the environment through industrial waste. Since heavy metals cannot be degraded, they have the potential for biomagnification, bioaccumulation, and bioconcentration in distinct trophic levels in a food chain, which affects the overall health of the ecological region. In this research, the presence and abundance of nickel, cobalt, zinc, cadmium, lead and iron in water bodies, sediment samples and flora present in the biotopes from the Cavernas del Rio Camuy National Park were evaluated. This cave system is part of a large network of natural limestone caves and underground canals that are considered the third largest in the world. This project is part of the research initiatives that constitute the Cooperation Agreement between UPR-Arecibo, UPR-Aguadilla and the Department of Recreation and Sports of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for the scientific, academic and educational use of the National Park, Tanamá River and surrounding areas. The sediment and collected water samples were treated in the laboratory following EPA Methods 3050B and 200.2, respectively. Plant sampling will be performed on the north side of the cave and collected based on its characteristics and abundance in the region. Plants include diffuse Commelina (Purple Cohitre), Pteridium aquilinum (Common Fern) and Usnea barbata. Samples of plant tissue will be digested using an open-beaker acid treatment. Spikes and SRM were also prepared to verify the recovery of the metal. Analyses will be carried out by means of a flame atomic absorption spectrometer. The results of this study will allow a better understanding of the environmental quality of the studied ecosystem and can help in future management measures specifically aimed at tracking pollution and contamination by metals in the cave system.

Determination of heavy metals in distinct ecological matrix of the biotopes near the “Cavernas del Rio de Camuy” National Park

2019 Spring National Meeting

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