Distribution Οf Metals & Organic Contaminants Ιn Mussels from Thermaikos Gulf

The levels and the distribution of metals, hydrocarbons and organochlorine compounds were studied
in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and surface sediments collected from Thermaikos gulf in March
1999. Hydrocarbon values were indicative of moderate pollution, whereas in some cases clear evidence
for the presence of petroleum residues was found. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, DDTs, PCBs and
metal concentrations were low, but clearly higher than those measured in the same area during the previous
years. Different spatial distribution patterns were observed between organic and inorganic contaminants
bioaccumulated in mussels and between sediment and mussel values. In all cases the contaminant
concentrations in mussels were well below the permissible limits for consuming seafood.