Heavy metal pollution in a reforested mangrove ecosystem (Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, Southern Vietnam): Effects of natural and anthropogenic stressors over a thirty-year history

In order to assess the impact of recent industrialization and land-use changes in the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a Biosphere Reserve in Southern Vietnam, we analyzed heavy metal (HM), total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) concentrations in a 210Pb-dated sediment core, allowing for the environmental reconstruction of the last three decades. C/N ratios were very high (>20) until ~1990, reflecting highly refractory organic matter. Sediment Quality Guidelines (SQG's) violations were observed particularly after the establishment of industries in the area in the late-1990s. Chromium (Cr) and copper (Cu) exceeded the threshold effect levels (TEL); whereas nickel (Ni) was above the probable effects level (PEL), identifying the risk of potential adverse biological effects. Moderate contamination, mainly from cobalt (Co) and lead (Pb), was detected by the contamination factor (CF) index, with Pb levels likely originating from mainly anthropogenic sources, particularly after ~1992, as indicated by elevated enrichment factor (EF) values. A high positive correlation was found between Pb, Cr, Cu and Ni (r ≥ 0.8), while Co, cadmium (Cd) and TOC were highly positive correlated (r = 0.9). We identified evidence of point sources, atmospheric pollution and erosion as the main contributors to enhanced HM levels. However, negative values of the Geo-accumulation index (I-geo) indicated uncontaminated sediments. This discrepancy in pollution indices was likely due to the use of shale averages instead of regional levels as background values, as well as the influence of multiple stressors. [Display omitted] •Heavy metal (HM) pollution is a key issue facing mangrove conservation.•HM pollution was assessed in a sediment core from the Can Gio Mangrove Forest.•Sediment quality guidelines and pollution indexes were used to assess HM enrichment.•Can Gio Mangrove Forest has been endangered mainly by Cr, Ni and Pb pollution.•Beyond HM pollution, multiple anthropogenic pressures are a threat to the mangrove.