An overview of the Gulf of Batabanó (Cuba): Environmental features as revealed by surface sediment characterisation

The main environmental features of the Gulf of Batabanó, Cuba, Caribbean, were investigated through the analyses of surface sediments collected at 23 sites. In order to highlight the potential threats affecting the sedimentary compartment of this area, samples were analysed for: granulometry, mineralogy, heavy metals concentration (As, Cd, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn), organic carbon, total nitrogen and radionuclides. Findings were compared with published data and “grey” literature. Results showed: granulometric homogeneity and a widespread carbonatic condition all over the gulf, probably due to stable bathymetry and lack of terrigenous input (except for the La Coloma basin); a rather pristine environment for what concerns heavy metals pollution, except for La Coloma where a large arsenic input was recorded; very low levels of natural and artificial radioactivity; a relevant quantity of sedimentary organic matter, providing biota with useful substrate for feeding and enhancing the food-web development while indirectly supplying lobster fisheries. Combined data highlighted the impact of the Dique Sur in reducing terrigenous input in the coastal area. Future studies should focus on dating of sediment cores for identifying and quantifying the changes acting in the gulf and on investigating the origins of the large arsenic input to La Coloma. ► The main environmental features of the Gulf of Batabanó, Cuba, were investigated through the analyses of surface sediments collected at 23 sites. ► The mineralogy of the gulf displays a carbonatic condition and a very limited terrigenous input. ► In terms of pollution the gulf is generally rather pristine. ► The sedimentary organic matter provides biota with a relevant quantity of useful substrate for feeding, so enhancing the food-web development that could indirectly supply lobster fisheries. ► The impact of Dique Sur, as highlighted by data on mineralogy, organic matter, heavy metal contents and radioactivity, seems to have reduced terrigenous input in the area.