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Papers by Filiz Kucuksezgin

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Aug 1, 2020

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the coastal region of Nemrut Bay, East... more Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the coastal region of Nemrut Bay, Eastern Aegean. Sediment and caged mussels were evaluated for sixteen PAHs. High contamination was observed in the sediment sampling sites next to the petrochemical refinery. Low molecular weight PAH levels were dominant in the sediments and the ratio LMW/HMW were higher than one, indicating petrogenic origin pollution. The m-ERM-q values of the sediments were classified as high-priority sites near the refinery while other sites were categorized as medium-low sites. 4-ring PAHs were found to be dominant in the mussels. PAHs were originated from petroleum and mixed sources (petrogenic, pyrogenic) both two transplantation experiments. The assessment of human health risk based on the Carcinogenic `Toxic Equivalents suggested that the mussels have high capability to give rise to carcinogenic risks. PAH levels in the mussels were above the Recommended Total Carcinogenic PAH limits set by the European Union.

Journal of Marine Systems, May 1, 2005

... A number of studies have been carried out on the characterization and influence of domestic a... more ... A number of studies have been carried out on the characterization and influence of domestic and wastewater to the Izmir Bay (Uslu, 1993 and Kısoglu et al., 1993) and on oceanographic characteristics (Buyukisik, 1986, IMST, 1990, IMST, 1999, Balcı et al., 1994, Kucuksezgin ...

Ege Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Sep 1, 2009

Environmental Science and Pollution Research, Jun 7, 2011

Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in surficial sediments from... more Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in surficial sediments from the Aegean Sea in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2008. Total aliphatic hydrocarbons (n-C12 to n-C35) ranged from 330 to 2,660 ng g(-1) dry weight (dwt), while aromatics (19 PAHs) varied between 73.5 and 2,170 ng g(-1) dwt. Total concentrations of both aliphatic hydrocarbons and PAHs ranged from a relatively low to a moderate PAHs pollution compared to other urbanized coastal areas worldwide. PAH consisted mainly of pyrolytic four- to five-ring compounds. Both pyrolytic and petrogenic PAHs are present in most samples, although petroleum-derived PAH are dominant at Izmir Inner Bay (IIB) and Dardanelles Strait, and pyrolytic sources are prevalent in other sampling sites. A high contribution of perylene, a diagenetic originated PAH, to the total penta PAHs was found greater than 70% in Meric River Estuary, Dikili Bay, Candarli Bay, and Gokova Bay sites. The spatial distributions of aliphatic hydrocarbons and PAHs indicated that urban runoff and transport from the continental shelf is the major input pathway of anthropogenic and biogenic hydrocarbons from terrestrial sources in the near-shore area. PAH levels at all sites were below the effects range-low (ERL) and effects range-median (ERM) values except fluorene. The average and maximum fluorene concentrations exceeded ERL, but below ERM, in the IIB. Meanwhile, the concentration levels of naphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, and chrysene were higher than threshold effect level values at the same site, but all these compounds were significantly lower than the probable effect level values. The results indicated that the sediments should have potential biological impact.

Chemosphere, Nov 1, 2013

h i g h l i g h t s Transplanted mussels were used to monitor contaminants in the Eastern Aegean.... more h i g h l i g h t s Transplanted mussels were used to monitor contaminants in the Eastern Aegean. Low metal pollution were observed in Canakkale Strait, Izmir, Saros and Candarli Bays. PAH contamination level classified as low along the Aegean coast. DDTs in mussels were derived from the recent inputs.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, May 1, 2012

The levels of selected organic markers, such as 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 16 of... more The levels of selected organic markers, such as 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 16 of which are classified as priority pollutants by the US-EPA, perylene, aliphatic hydrocarbons (linear alkanes) and petroleum biomarkers (hopanes and steranes) were assessed in Mytella charruana, a common bivalve mollusk from the convergence of the Mundaú Lagoon, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. The organic markers were evaluated in three campaigns (Jul/2006, Oct/2007 and Feb/2008) aiming to identify pollution sources, understand their status of contamination and determine baseline data looking for future management strategies. Higher Σ16HPAs concentration was observed in organisms with 10-30 mm (80% of the total mass of organisms from Mundaú Lagoon) collected in Feb/2008, whereas in individuals with 30-40 mm, the PAH concentrations were higher during Jul/2006 and Oct/2007. The sugarcane burning in Maceió-AL occurs between October and March. The Flt/(Flt + Py) and BaA/(BaA + Chry) ratios in Feb/2008 indicated a combustion process source. The PAH concentrations in Mytella charruana are below of the limit value considered by the WHO (10 ng g −1 for BaP). However, the results suggest that the sugarcane burning process lead to higher PAH concentrations in these organisms in Feb/2008. Many samples showed significant contamination by petroleum biomarkers, hopanes and steranes. Also, the aliphatic hydrocarbon chromatographic profiles were characteristic of petrogenic sources. The hydrocarbons measured in Mytella charruana from Mundaú Lagoon seems to be impacted by PAH in sugarcane burning periods. On the other hand, urban residues and fishing boats could be pointed as important petrogenic sources of aliphatic hydrocarbons in the same bivalve mollusk.

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, Jul 30, 2019

Marine aquaculture in Turkey is a rapidly growing sector but environmental quality of sediments i... more Marine aquaculture in Turkey is a rapidly growing sector but environmental quality of sediments in aquaculture areas has not been studied until today. The levels of petroleum hydrocarbon levels in marine sediments from three different fish farms located on the eastern coast of Aegean Sea were studied for assessing the quality status of aquaculture regions. The levels of 16 USEPA PAHs were determined with a mean concentration of 150 for Akkoy; 90 for Gulluk; 99 ng g À1 dw for Ildır sediment samples near fish farming, lower than the SQG effects range low (2460 ng g À1 dw) and threshold effect level (619 ng g À1 dw). However, the Trap sediment samples including sinking material under the edge of the cage contain significantly higher levels of aliphatics and PAHs. The results concluded that the sediments from the aquaculture sites except Traps may not cause acute biological damage. Besides, molecular ratios suggested that the PAHs were originated from pyrogenic sources for three different aquaculture areas.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Dec 1, 2012

ABSTRACT In this study, the state of the five stations' quality was assessed on the basis... more ABSTRACT In this study, the state of the five stations' quality was assessed on the basis of determination of temporal and spatial variability of nutrients with physicochemical variables. Besides this, organic matter of sediment, secchi disc depth and suspended solids were also determined. The samples were collected seasonally from different areas such as harbor and important touristic marinas along the eastern Aegean during June 2008-2009. As a result, the nutrients ranged between NH(4): 0.10-25.6, NO(2): 0.01-1.5, NO(3): 0.19-7.0, o.PO(4): 0.17-6.8, TPO(4): 0.32-9.6 and Si: 0.30-13.8μM, respectively. Precipitation leads to large changes in temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and nutrients. The highest nutrient values in this study were observed during the rainy season except o.PO(4)-P and TPO(4)-P. However, the physico-chemical variables have exhibited considerable temporal variations while nutrients showed spatial differences. The relatively high nutrient increase in the sampling stations coupled with surface runoff events during rainy period and pollution arising from both point and non-point sources.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, May 1, 2011

Regional Studies in Marine Science, Apr 1, 2019

Surface water quality impairment in agricultural watersheds is a major environmental concern in t... more Surface water quality impairment in agricultural watersheds is a major environmental concern in the United States. To assess seasonal and spatial variability of surface water quality and identify factors associated with surface water quality variability, we monitored surface water quality at seven locations in Bayou Plaquemine Brule Watershed in Louisiana twice monthly from March of 2002 to February of 2008 and performed multivariate analyses of the dataset. Using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model, we identified critical areas of nonpoint source pollution in the watershed. While temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), conductivity and pH were determined in the field using YSI Sonde (YSI Incorporated, Yellow Springs, Ohio), surface water samples were analyzed for total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), nitrate/nitrite-N (NO 3 /NO 2-N), soluble reactive phosphate (SRP), total suspended solids (TSS), and five-day biological oxygen demand (BOD 5) in laboratory. The monthly water quality sampling included a regular sampling and an after-rain-event sampling. Average DO for the summer months, March through November, was 4.91 ± 0.08 mg L-1 (4.91 ± 0.08 ppm), while average DO for the winter months, December through February, was 8.32 ± 0.12 mg L-1 (8.32 ± 0.12 ppm). Dissolved oxygen was negatively correlated with TN (r =-0.22, p ≤ 0.001), SRP (r =-0.17, p ≤ 0.001), TP (r =-0.17, p ≤ 0.001), BOD 5 (r =-0.25, p ≤ 0.001), and surface water temperature (r =-0.70, p ≤ 0.001). Turbidity was strongly correlated with TSS (r = 0.59, p ≤ 0.001), suggesting that most turbidity in the water body comes from suspended solids. Similarly BOD 5 was significantly positively correlated with TN (r = 0.43, p ≤ 0.001), NO 3 /NO 2-N (r = 0.26, p ≤ 0.001), TP (r = 0.25, p ≤ 0.001), and SRP (r = 0.18, p ≤ 0.001). Results of factor analyses showed sediment, phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), surface water temperature, dissolved solids, and acidity/alkalinity as the most important factors associated with surface water quality variability in this watershed. Although relatively higher concentrations of sediments, TP, and TN were observed in the upper reaches of the watershed based on water quality monitoring, the SWAT simulation results showed the critical nonpoint source pollution areas of sediment, P, and N in the lower reaches of the watershed. Lower reaches of the watershed have mainly rice and crawfish production, while the upper reaches include primarily sugarcane, pasturelands, and soybean production. Information on seasonal variability of surface water quality, factors associated with surface water quality variability, and the critical areas for nonpoint source pollution will be valuable inputs for developing a watershed management plan for effective nonpoint source pollution control in an agricultural watershed.

Journal of Applied Ichthyology, Dec 1, 2009

This paper describes marine aquaculture production and the regulation thereof in Turkey. Dominate... more This paper describes marine aquaculture production and the regulation thereof in Turkey. Dominated by the cage farming of sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and sea bream (Sparus aurata), shellfish farming is insignificant. Finfish farmers must obtain permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) as the main authority responsible for regulating marine finfish aquaculture. In addition, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MEF) controls the compatibility of interactions with the environment while the provincial governments issue permits for marine public property use and organize the leasing procedures. Finfish farming activities are controlled by a number of specific laws and regulations administered mainly through the MARA and the MEF. This article provides a review of the development and present status of the licensing, regulating and monitoring procedures for finfish aquaculture in Turkey. The notable expansion of the finfish aquaculture sector in recent years and the problems created in relation to the current relevant legislation and applications are presented and discussed.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Dec 1, 2007

Total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations were investigated in two different sp... more Total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations were investigated in two different species from the Izmir Bay. The levels of THg and MeHg in fish tissue, ranging from 4.4 to 221.4 µg THg kg and 3.8-194.8 µg MeHg kg (wet wt.), varied according to sampling point and season. The results indicate that none of the fish analysed was ≥ 0.500 µg g for THg and ≥ 0.300 µg g for MeHg and nor did they exceed the WHO limit [1].

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Nov 1, 2012

h i g h l i g h t s High levels of OCs were found near urban areas, shipping and industrial activ... more h i g h l i g h t s High levels of OCs were found near urban areas, shipping and industrial activities. Ubiquitous contaminants were PCBs, DDTs, and chloropyrifos. DDT and HCHs inputs at several locations appear to be from recent usage. OC levels were similar to those observed in sediments of the Mediterranean Sea. Areas of expected potential ecotoxicological risk were identified.

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, Feb 24, 2009

The aim of this study was to monitor the heavy metal contents and fecal pollution in Tapes decuss... more The aim of this study was to monitor the heavy metal contents and fecal pollution in Tapes decussatus (carpet shell clam) from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean). Bivalve mollusks were sampled on January, March, July, and October 2007 in the Izmir Bay. Izmir Bay is one of the great natural bays of the Mediterranean. Concentrations of heavy metals were determined in the clams from the different seasons. Fecal coliform densities were determined to evaluate the degree of water pollution and clams' microbiological accumulation of the classical microbial pollution indicators. The concentration of heavy metals in T. decussatus from Izmir Bay were Hg 0.044-0.13; Cd 0.026-0.24; Pb 0.38-1.2; Cr 2.3-3.7; Cu 6.4-8.4; Zn 56.0-81.8, and Ni 8.1-9.6 microg/g (dry weight). The maximum values were generally obtained in July and March except Ni. This study found that the levels of heavy metals except Cr in T. decussatus were below Spanish and European Communities legislations for shellfish as food. Microbial pollution indicators (heterotrophic bacteria and fecal coliform) were measured in T. decussatus. Maximum heterotrophic bacteria and fecal coliforms were recorded in the winter while the lowest were detected in summer.

Environmental Earth Sciences, Sep 1, 2017

The brackish Bafa Lake located in the southwestern part of Turkey is under stress because of both... more The brackish Bafa Lake located in the southwestern part of Turkey is under stress because of both natural and untreated wastewater effluents. The purpose of this research is to determine spatiotemporal distributions of some physicochemical variables in water column (temperature, salinity, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, NH 4-N, NO 2-N, NO 3-N, oPO 4-P, TPO 4-P, chlorophyll-a, total suspended solids) and sediment (TN, TC, TOC, TP) and their relationships at coastal stations. In the water column, nitrate and phosphate concentrations showed seasonal variations with high values recorded in winter period. Ammonium was determined as a main source of TIN component. During summer period, a large amount of total phosphorus was found as dissolved organic form. However, in the winter period, inorganic phosphate levels increased at sampling stations. N limitation was a common feature throughout the lake where P-limitation was only observed in summer period. The total phosphorus levels which showed hypereutrophic condition at the western part of the lake changed between 1.55 and 4.99 lM and did not remain in the range for uncontaminated condition. In the lake sediment, a strong relationship was found between TOC and TC levels. Generally, the mean TOC concentrations constitute small amount of TC values in the sampling stations. The results also indicated that a strong correlation exists between TOC and TN values, and TN was greatly regulated by organic sources. In the lake, TOC:TN ratios changed between 5 and 13; the ratio greater than 10 could be an indicator of algal and land plant sources mixing as an organic matter.

Journal of Applied Ichthyology, Oct 30, 2010

ABSTRACT This research examines the current water quality status of Izmir Bay, using the trophic ... more ABSTRACT This research examines the current water quality status of Izmir Bay, using the trophic index (TRIX) as a tool for the regulation of Turkish marine finfish aquaculture. In 2007, new legislation was enacted in Turkey related to the protection of coastal waters, especially those of enclosed bays and gulfs, from pollution by fish farming. However, the legislation does not apply to any other coastal zone stakeholders; for this reason the entire Izmir Bay was examined. Use of the composite trophic status index (TRIX) produced mean TRIX values of 3.6 for the aquaculture area (AA) and 2.5 for areas of the outer bay where no aquaculture takes place; this indicates ‘no risk of eutrophication’ as defined by Turkish law. In the inner Izmir Bay, there is a mean TRIX value of 4.3, which is above the threshold of four and typical for ‘high eutrophication risk’ areas, as expected because of heavy urbanization. The study then applied the UNTRIX indices adjusted to local conditions, revealing that both the inner bay and the aquaculture area (AA) can be classified as of ‘poor’ status whereas the outer bay can be defined as ‘good’. The UNTRIX-based trophic classification is in good agreement with TRIX for both the outer and inner parts of the bay; however, there is no agreement regarding the classification of the aquaculture area.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Dec 1, 2012

The residual levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were... more The residual levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in surface sediments collected from Candarli Gulf. Total concentrations of OCPs and PCBs in sediments ranged from 10.2 to 57.3 and 2.8 to 205 ng g⁻¹ dwt, respectively. DDTs in sediments were derived from the aged and weathered agricultural soils in 61% of the sampling stations while 39% of the sites originated from the recent DDT inputs. Their concentrations appeared to be relatively low by global standards and only sediments receiving the impact from the Bakircay River and petrochemical industry approached the sediment quality guidelines for PCBs and DDTs. Based on ERL/ERM guidelines, DDT and PCBs posed ecological risk to the bottom-dwelling consumers.

Chemosphere, Oct 1, 2014

The arsenic compounds in marine biota were evaluated from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean) and found th... more The arsenic compounds in marine biota were evaluated from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean) and found that inorganic arsenic occurred as a minor fraction. No information is available on the annual variations of arsenic in important edible biota species from Izmir Bay. Fish and mussel samples were taken from different regions of Izmir Bay between 2009 and 2011 (n=854 individual specimens). The average percentages of inorganic arsenic to total arsenic for all biota samples were 3.43±3.38% with a range of 0.11-11.8%. The importance of speciation analysis for arsenic is supported by our work, because arsenic is ubiquitous in the ecosystem, and flexible toxicity of arsenic is based on chemical form. The average total As levels in Mullus barbatus were 6 times higher than Diplodus annularis and Mytilus galloprovincialis. This study also revealed that spatial variation influenced the arsenic levels in the fish samples and the highest concentrations of arsenic were found in Gediz site. Our study showed that estimated daily intakes of arsenic via consumption of flesh fish and shell fish were below the BMDL0.5 values established by FAO/WHO.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Nov 1, 2012

Aliphatics and PAHs were determined in sediments from the Candarli Gulf in 2009. Aliphatics range... more Aliphatics and PAHs were determined in sediments from the Candarli Gulf in 2009. Aliphatics ranged from 3.88 to 24.7 lg g À1 while aromatics varied between <4.15 and 405 ng g À1 (dw). PAHs ranged from a relatively low to a moderate PAHs pollution compared to other urbanized coastal areas worldwide. 3ring PAHs were most abundant in the sampling area. Both pyrolytic and petrogenic PAHs were present in most samples, although petroleum derived PAHs were dominant at the stations situated near the refinery and petrochemical, metal industry and pyrolytic sources were mainly prevalent in the estuary of Bakircay River. The ratio of UCM to n-alkanes and CPI values in station 6 indicate that the main contribution to petroleum hydrocarbon contamination is via oil and its products. PAH levels at all sites were below the ERL and ERM except fluorene. The results indicated that the sediments should have no potential biological impact except stations 6 and 14.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Apr 1, 2012

Aliağa Bay is one of the most important maritime zones of Turkey where shipping activity, shipbre... more Aliağa Bay is one of the most important maritime zones of Turkey where shipping activity, shipbreaking industry, steel works and petrochemical complexes exist together. Concentrations of heavy metals and organic carbon in sediment of the Aliağa Bay were investigated to evaluate an environmental risk assessment from metals contamination in 2009-2010. Comparison of the metal concentrations with average shale and Mediterranean background levels revealed that most of the samples from the Aliağa were polluted with Hg, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Mn and Ni. It was found that Hg, Pb, Cu, Zn and Ni levels in Aliağa Bay exceeded the PEL values. Sediments, contaminated with Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn and Ni were considered as heavily polluted per the SQG.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Aug 1, 2020

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the coastal region of Nemrut Bay, East... more Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the coastal region of Nemrut Bay, Eastern Aegean. Sediment and caged mussels were evaluated for sixteen PAHs. High contamination was observed in the sediment sampling sites next to the petrochemical refinery. Low molecular weight PAH levels were dominant in the sediments and the ratio LMW/HMW were higher than one, indicating petrogenic origin pollution. The m-ERM-q values of the sediments were classified as high-priority sites near the refinery while other sites were categorized as medium-low sites. 4-ring PAHs were found to be dominant in the mussels. PAHs were originated from petroleum and mixed sources (petrogenic, pyrogenic) both two transplantation experiments. The assessment of human health risk based on the Carcinogenic `Toxic Equivalents suggested that the mussels have high capability to give rise to carcinogenic risks. PAH levels in the mussels were above the Recommended Total Carcinogenic PAH limits set by the European Union.

Journal of Marine Systems, May 1, 2005

... A number of studies have been carried out on the characterization and influence of domestic a... more ... A number of studies have been carried out on the characterization and influence of domestic and wastewater to the Izmir Bay (Uslu, 1993 and Kısoglu et al., 1993) and on oceanographic characteristics (Buyukisik, 1986, IMST, 1990, IMST, 1999, Balcı et al., 1994, Kucuksezgin ...

Ege Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Sep 1, 2009

Environmental Science and Pollution Research, Jun 7, 2011

Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in surficial sediments from... more Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in surficial sediments from the Aegean Sea in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2008. Total aliphatic hydrocarbons (n-C12 to n-C35) ranged from 330 to 2,660 ng g(-1) dry weight (dwt), while aromatics (19 PAHs) varied between 73.5 and 2,170 ng g(-1) dwt. Total concentrations of both aliphatic hydrocarbons and PAHs ranged from a relatively low to a moderate PAHs pollution compared to other urbanized coastal areas worldwide. PAH consisted mainly of pyrolytic four- to five-ring compounds. Both pyrolytic and petrogenic PAHs are present in most samples, although petroleum-derived PAH are dominant at Izmir Inner Bay (IIB) and Dardanelles Strait, and pyrolytic sources are prevalent in other sampling sites. A high contribution of perylene, a diagenetic originated PAH, to the total penta PAHs was found greater than 70% in Meric River Estuary, Dikili Bay, Candarli Bay, and Gokova Bay sites. The spatial distributions of aliphatic hydrocarbons and PAHs indicated that urban runoff and transport from the continental shelf is the major input pathway of anthropogenic and biogenic hydrocarbons from terrestrial sources in the near-shore area. PAH levels at all sites were below the effects range-low (ERL) and effects range-median (ERM) values except fluorene. The average and maximum fluorene concentrations exceeded ERL, but below ERM, in the IIB. Meanwhile, the concentration levels of naphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, and chrysene were higher than threshold effect level values at the same site, but all these compounds were significantly lower than the probable effect level values. The results indicated that the sediments should have potential biological impact.

Chemosphere, Nov 1, 2013

h i g h l i g h t s Transplanted mussels were used to monitor contaminants in the Eastern Aegean.... more h i g h l i g h t s Transplanted mussels were used to monitor contaminants in the Eastern Aegean. Low metal pollution were observed in Canakkale Strait, Izmir, Saros and Candarli Bays. PAH contamination level classified as low along the Aegean coast. DDTs in mussels were derived from the recent inputs.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, May 1, 2012

The levels of selected organic markers, such as 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 16 of... more The levels of selected organic markers, such as 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 16 of which are classified as priority pollutants by the US-EPA, perylene, aliphatic hydrocarbons (linear alkanes) and petroleum biomarkers (hopanes and steranes) were assessed in Mytella charruana, a common bivalve mollusk from the convergence of the Mundaú Lagoon, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. The organic markers were evaluated in three campaigns (Jul/2006, Oct/2007 and Feb/2008) aiming to identify pollution sources, understand their status of contamination and determine baseline data looking for future management strategies. Higher Σ16HPAs concentration was observed in organisms with 10-30 mm (80% of the total mass of organisms from Mundaú Lagoon) collected in Feb/2008, whereas in individuals with 30-40 mm, the PAH concentrations were higher during Jul/2006 and Oct/2007. The sugarcane burning in Maceió-AL occurs between October and March. The Flt/(Flt + Py) and BaA/(BaA + Chry) ratios in Feb/2008 indicated a combustion process source. The PAH concentrations in Mytella charruana are below of the limit value considered by the WHO (10 ng g −1 for BaP). However, the results suggest that the sugarcane burning process lead to higher PAH concentrations in these organisms in Feb/2008. Many samples showed significant contamination by petroleum biomarkers, hopanes and steranes. Also, the aliphatic hydrocarbon chromatographic profiles were characteristic of petrogenic sources. The hydrocarbons measured in Mytella charruana from Mundaú Lagoon seems to be impacted by PAH in sugarcane burning periods. On the other hand, urban residues and fishing boats could be pointed as important petrogenic sources of aliphatic hydrocarbons in the same bivalve mollusk.

Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, Jul 30, 2019

Marine aquaculture in Turkey is a rapidly growing sector but environmental quality of sediments i... more Marine aquaculture in Turkey is a rapidly growing sector but environmental quality of sediments in aquaculture areas has not been studied until today. The levels of petroleum hydrocarbon levels in marine sediments from three different fish farms located on the eastern coast of Aegean Sea were studied for assessing the quality status of aquaculture regions. The levels of 16 USEPA PAHs were determined with a mean concentration of 150 for Akkoy; 90 for Gulluk; 99 ng g À1 dw for Ildır sediment samples near fish farming, lower than the SQG effects range low (2460 ng g À1 dw) and threshold effect level (619 ng g À1 dw). However, the Trap sediment samples including sinking material under the edge of the cage contain significantly higher levels of aliphatics and PAHs. The results concluded that the sediments from the aquaculture sites except Traps may not cause acute biological damage. Besides, molecular ratios suggested that the PAHs were originated from pyrogenic sources for three different aquaculture areas.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Dec 1, 2012

ABSTRACT In this study, the state of the five stations&#39; quality was assessed on the basis... more ABSTRACT In this study, the state of the five stations&#39; quality was assessed on the basis of determination of temporal and spatial variability of nutrients with physicochemical variables. Besides this, organic matter of sediment, secchi disc depth and suspended solids were also determined. The samples were collected seasonally from different areas such as harbor and important touristic marinas along the eastern Aegean during June 2008-2009. As a result, the nutrients ranged between NH(4): 0.10-25.6, NO(2): 0.01-1.5, NO(3): 0.19-7.0, o.PO(4): 0.17-6.8, TPO(4): 0.32-9.6 and Si: 0.30-13.8μM, respectively. Precipitation leads to large changes in temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and nutrients. The highest nutrient values in this study were observed during the rainy season except o.PO(4)-P and TPO(4)-P. However, the physico-chemical variables have exhibited considerable temporal variations while nutrients showed spatial differences. The relatively high nutrient increase in the sampling stations coupled with surface runoff events during rainy period and pollution arising from both point and non-point sources.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, May 1, 2011

Regional Studies in Marine Science, Apr 1, 2019

Surface water quality impairment in agricultural watersheds is a major environmental concern in t... more Surface water quality impairment in agricultural watersheds is a major environmental concern in the United States. To assess seasonal and spatial variability of surface water quality and identify factors associated with surface water quality variability, we monitored surface water quality at seven locations in Bayou Plaquemine Brule Watershed in Louisiana twice monthly from March of 2002 to February of 2008 and performed multivariate analyses of the dataset. Using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model, we identified critical areas of nonpoint source pollution in the watershed. While temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), conductivity and pH were determined in the field using YSI Sonde (YSI Incorporated, Yellow Springs, Ohio), surface water samples were analyzed for total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), nitrate/nitrite-N (NO 3 /NO 2-N), soluble reactive phosphate (SRP), total suspended solids (TSS), and five-day biological oxygen demand (BOD 5) in laboratory. The monthly water quality sampling included a regular sampling and an after-rain-event sampling. Average DO for the summer months, March through November, was 4.91 ± 0.08 mg L-1 (4.91 ± 0.08 ppm), while average DO for the winter months, December through February, was 8.32 ± 0.12 mg L-1 (8.32 ± 0.12 ppm). Dissolved oxygen was negatively correlated with TN (r =-0.22, p ≤ 0.001), SRP (r =-0.17, p ≤ 0.001), TP (r =-0.17, p ≤ 0.001), BOD 5 (r =-0.25, p ≤ 0.001), and surface water temperature (r =-0.70, p ≤ 0.001). Turbidity was strongly correlated with TSS (r = 0.59, p ≤ 0.001), suggesting that most turbidity in the water body comes from suspended solids. Similarly BOD 5 was significantly positively correlated with TN (r = 0.43, p ≤ 0.001), NO 3 /NO 2-N (r = 0.26, p ≤ 0.001), TP (r = 0.25, p ≤ 0.001), and SRP (r = 0.18, p ≤ 0.001). Results of factor analyses showed sediment, phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), surface water temperature, dissolved solids, and acidity/alkalinity as the most important factors associated with surface water quality variability in this watershed. Although relatively higher concentrations of sediments, TP, and TN were observed in the upper reaches of the watershed based on water quality monitoring, the SWAT simulation results showed the critical nonpoint source pollution areas of sediment, P, and N in the lower reaches of the watershed. Lower reaches of the watershed have mainly rice and crawfish production, while the upper reaches include primarily sugarcane, pasturelands, and soybean production. Information on seasonal variability of surface water quality, factors associated with surface water quality variability, and the critical areas for nonpoint source pollution will be valuable inputs for developing a watershed management plan for effective nonpoint source pollution control in an agricultural watershed.

Journal of Applied Ichthyology, Dec 1, 2009

This paper describes marine aquaculture production and the regulation thereof in Turkey. Dominate... more This paper describes marine aquaculture production and the regulation thereof in Turkey. Dominated by the cage farming of sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and sea bream (Sparus aurata), shellfish farming is insignificant. Finfish farmers must obtain permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) as the main authority responsible for regulating marine finfish aquaculture. In addition, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MEF) controls the compatibility of interactions with the environment while the provincial governments issue permits for marine public property use and organize the leasing procedures. Finfish farming activities are controlled by a number of specific laws and regulations administered mainly through the MARA and the MEF. This article provides a review of the development and present status of the licensing, regulating and monitoring procedures for finfish aquaculture in Turkey. The notable expansion of the finfish aquaculture sector in recent years and the problems created in relation to the current relevant legislation and applications are presented and discussed.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Dec 1, 2007

Total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations were investigated in two different sp... more Total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations were investigated in two different species from the Izmir Bay. The levels of THg and MeHg in fish tissue, ranging from 4.4 to 221.4 µg THg kg and 3.8-194.8 µg MeHg kg (wet wt.), varied according to sampling point and season. The results indicate that none of the fish analysed was ≥ 0.500 µg g for THg and ≥ 0.300 µg g for MeHg and nor did they exceed the WHO limit [1].

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Nov 1, 2012

h i g h l i g h t s High levels of OCs were found near urban areas, shipping and industrial activ... more h i g h l i g h t s High levels of OCs were found near urban areas, shipping and industrial activities. Ubiquitous contaminants were PCBs, DDTs, and chloropyrifos. DDT and HCHs inputs at several locations appear to be from recent usage. OC levels were similar to those observed in sediments of the Mediterranean Sea. Areas of expected potential ecotoxicological risk were identified.

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, Feb 24, 2009

The aim of this study was to monitor the heavy metal contents and fecal pollution in Tapes decuss... more The aim of this study was to monitor the heavy metal contents and fecal pollution in Tapes decussatus (carpet shell clam) from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean). Bivalve mollusks were sampled on January, March, July, and October 2007 in the Izmir Bay. Izmir Bay is one of the great natural bays of the Mediterranean. Concentrations of heavy metals were determined in the clams from the different seasons. Fecal coliform densities were determined to evaluate the degree of water pollution and clams&amp;amp;#39; microbiological accumulation of the classical microbial pollution indicators. The concentration of heavy metals in T. decussatus from Izmir Bay were Hg 0.044-0.13; Cd 0.026-0.24; Pb 0.38-1.2; Cr 2.3-3.7; Cu 6.4-8.4; Zn 56.0-81.8, and Ni 8.1-9.6 microg/g (dry weight). The maximum values were generally obtained in July and March except Ni. This study found that the levels of heavy metals except Cr in T. decussatus were below Spanish and European Communities legislations for shellfish as food. Microbial pollution indicators (heterotrophic bacteria and fecal coliform) were measured in T. decussatus. Maximum heterotrophic bacteria and fecal coliforms were recorded in the winter while the lowest were detected in summer.

Environmental Earth Sciences, Sep 1, 2017

The brackish Bafa Lake located in the southwestern part of Turkey is under stress because of both... more The brackish Bafa Lake located in the southwestern part of Turkey is under stress because of both natural and untreated wastewater effluents. The purpose of this research is to determine spatiotemporal distributions of some physicochemical variables in water column (temperature, salinity, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, NH 4-N, NO 2-N, NO 3-N, oPO 4-P, TPO 4-P, chlorophyll-a, total suspended solids) and sediment (TN, TC, TOC, TP) and their relationships at coastal stations. In the water column, nitrate and phosphate concentrations showed seasonal variations with high values recorded in winter period. Ammonium was determined as a main source of TIN component. During summer period, a large amount of total phosphorus was found as dissolved organic form. However, in the winter period, inorganic phosphate levels increased at sampling stations. N limitation was a common feature throughout the lake where P-limitation was only observed in summer period. The total phosphorus levels which showed hypereutrophic condition at the western part of the lake changed between 1.55 and 4.99 lM and did not remain in the range for uncontaminated condition. In the lake sediment, a strong relationship was found between TOC and TC levels. Generally, the mean TOC concentrations constitute small amount of TC values in the sampling stations. The results also indicated that a strong correlation exists between TOC and TN values, and TN was greatly regulated by organic sources. In the lake, TOC:TN ratios changed between 5 and 13; the ratio greater than 10 could be an indicator of algal and land plant sources mixing as an organic matter.

Journal of Applied Ichthyology, Oct 30, 2010

ABSTRACT This research examines the current water quality status of Izmir Bay, using the trophic ... more ABSTRACT This research examines the current water quality status of Izmir Bay, using the trophic index (TRIX) as a tool for the regulation of Turkish marine finfish aquaculture. In 2007, new legislation was enacted in Turkey related to the protection of coastal waters, especially those of enclosed bays and gulfs, from pollution by fish farming. However, the legislation does not apply to any other coastal zone stakeholders; for this reason the entire Izmir Bay was examined. Use of the composite trophic status index (TRIX) produced mean TRIX values of 3.6 for the aquaculture area (AA) and 2.5 for areas of the outer bay where no aquaculture takes place; this indicates ‘no risk of eutrophication’ as defined by Turkish law. In the inner Izmir Bay, there is a mean TRIX value of 4.3, which is above the threshold of four and typical for ‘high eutrophication risk’ areas, as expected because of heavy urbanization. The study then applied the UNTRIX indices adjusted to local conditions, revealing that both the inner bay and the aquaculture area (AA) can be classified as of ‘poor’ status whereas the outer bay can be defined as ‘good’. The UNTRIX-based trophic classification is in good agreement with TRIX for both the outer and inner parts of the bay; however, there is no agreement regarding the classification of the aquaculture area.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Dec 1, 2012

The residual levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were... more The residual levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in surface sediments collected from Candarli Gulf. Total concentrations of OCPs and PCBs in sediments ranged from 10.2 to 57.3 and 2.8 to 205 ng g⁻¹ dwt, respectively. DDTs in sediments were derived from the aged and weathered agricultural soils in 61% of the sampling stations while 39% of the sites originated from the recent DDT inputs. Their concentrations appeared to be relatively low by global standards and only sediments receiving the impact from the Bakircay River and petrochemical industry approached the sediment quality guidelines for PCBs and DDTs. Based on ERL/ERM guidelines, DDT and PCBs posed ecological risk to the bottom-dwelling consumers.

Chemosphere, Oct 1, 2014

The arsenic compounds in marine biota were evaluated from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean) and found th... more The arsenic compounds in marine biota were evaluated from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean) and found that inorganic arsenic occurred as a minor fraction. No information is available on the annual variations of arsenic in important edible biota species from Izmir Bay. Fish and mussel samples were taken from different regions of Izmir Bay between 2009 and 2011 (n=854 individual specimens). The average percentages of inorganic arsenic to total arsenic for all biota samples were 3.43±3.38% with a range of 0.11-11.8%. The importance of speciation analysis for arsenic is supported by our work, because arsenic is ubiquitous in the ecosystem, and flexible toxicity of arsenic is based on chemical form. The average total As levels in Mullus barbatus were 6 times higher than Diplodus annularis and Mytilus galloprovincialis. This study also revealed that spatial variation influenced the arsenic levels in the fish samples and the highest concentrations of arsenic were found in Gediz site. Our study showed that estimated daily intakes of arsenic via consumption of flesh fish and shell fish were below the BMDL0.5 values established by FAO/WHO.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Nov 1, 2012

Aliphatics and PAHs were determined in sediments from the Candarli Gulf in 2009. Aliphatics range... more Aliphatics and PAHs were determined in sediments from the Candarli Gulf in 2009. Aliphatics ranged from 3.88 to 24.7 lg g À1 while aromatics varied between <4.15 and 405 ng g À1 (dw). PAHs ranged from a relatively low to a moderate PAHs pollution compared to other urbanized coastal areas worldwide. 3ring PAHs were most abundant in the sampling area. Both pyrolytic and petrogenic PAHs were present in most samples, although petroleum derived PAHs were dominant at the stations situated near the refinery and petrochemical, metal industry and pyrolytic sources were mainly prevalent in the estuary of Bakircay River. The ratio of UCM to n-alkanes and CPI values in station 6 indicate that the main contribution to petroleum hydrocarbon contamination is via oil and its products. PAH levels at all sites were below the ERL and ERM except fluorene. The results indicated that the sediments should have no potential biological impact except stations 6 and 14.

Marine Pollution Bulletin, Apr 1, 2012

Aliağa Bay is one of the most important maritime zones of Turkey where shipping activity, shipbre... more Aliağa Bay is one of the most important maritime zones of Turkey where shipping activity, shipbreaking industry, steel works and petrochemical complexes exist together. Concentrations of heavy metals and organic carbon in sediment of the Aliağa Bay were investigated to evaluate an environmental risk assessment from metals contamination in 2009-2010. Comparison of the metal concentrations with average shale and Mediterranean background levels revealed that most of the samples from the Aliağa were polluted with Hg, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Mn and Ni. It was found that Hg, Pb, Cu, Zn and Ni levels in Aliağa Bay exceeded the PEL values. Sediments, contaminated with Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn and Ni were considered as heavily polluted per the SQG.