Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Trace Metals in Shallow Marine Sediments of the Yucatan Shelf, Gulf of Mexico.

ABSTRACT

We investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of V and Cd in surface sediments of the Yucatan Shelf to establish current average values for the area. V and Cd concentrations are similar to those reported internationally for limestone rocks and surface marine sediments. The observed variability of V concentrations between cruises may be the result of changes in ocean current direction in summer (SW-S) and strong prevailing winds in autumn (N-NE). In addition to the hydrodynamics described above, Cd variations may also be associated with inputs of particulate material by upwelling events and subsequent transport and distribution to the shelf by the Yucatan Channel current (autumn). Considering that both metals showed significant spatial and temporal differences, a range of values for V (0.4-1.5 µg g-1) and Cd (0.05-0.2 µg g-1) are proposed as baseline reference for sediments of the Yucatan Shelf.