Interferences of trace metals between sediment and Dotillid crab (Ilyoplax frater) from three tidal creeks, Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract In the Anthropocene era, an immersion of toxic substances, i.e., trace metals, has been enhanced in marine environment not only due to urban sprawl and industrial development but predominantly owing incongruous management lack sustainable approaches. The coastal region Pakistan shares a similar obstacle as most developing countries confronted. Therefore, this study was designed investigate concentrations eight metals (Cu, Fe, Zn, Ni, Co, Pb, Cr, Cd) sediment Dotillid crab, Ilyoplax frater , at three tidal creeks Karachi, Pakistan. All sediments crabs were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometer. pollution evaluated contamination degree (CD) potential ecological risk index (RI). After depicting metal sediments, accumulation, benthic crab investigated through total crabs, accumulation factor (AF), correlation analysis, regression analysis. results exhibited substantial differences Cd among creek sediments. Contamination factors indicated that Pb had highest sharing pollution, classified moderately contaminated. accumulations showed notable spatial variations, (AFs) for > 1.0, signifying strong bioaccumulation crabs. Particularly, Cu, levels considerably greater (two times) compared creek’s even though they don’t share any relationship between two matrixes. Hydrographical sedimentological traits also revealed significant interactions with A association noticed Interestingly, AFs inverse environmental matrix. Exceptionally, positive found concentration suggested I. probably acts indicator pollution.