Nutrient regeneration mediated by extracellular enzymes in water column and interstitial water through a microcosm experiment.

In coastal lakes the role of microorganisms in driving nutrients regeneration at different water depths and in sediments is not yet fully understood. The dynamics of microbial (algal and bacterial) abundance and bacterial activities involved in organic matter transformation were measured, together with nutrient concentrations, through a microcosm experiment set up using the oligotrophic Faro lake as a study model over a total period of 15 days and with a four-day frequency. Water column at different depths (surface, middle and bottom) and interstitial water obtained by sediment centrifugation were used in appropriate ratios (mixed 1:1 with surface waters) to fill 21-Litre plastic aquaria in order to simulate processes occurring in natural conditions.

Heavy metals concentrations in some commercially key species from Sicilian coasts (Mediterranean Sea): Potential human health risk estimation.

Trace elements were measured in the edible tissues of target marine species (Sardina pilchardus, Mullus barbatus, Mullus surmuletus, Merluccius merluccius and Parapenaeus longirostris) collected in some of the main ports of the Sicilian coast (southern Italy) in order to evaluate the potential human health risk associated to their consumption. Cadmium, Pb and Hg were below the tolerable limits reported by the European Union in foodstuffs (Commission Regulation (EC) 1881/2006) except for Hg in P. longirostris from one sampling site.