Geochemistry of Bizerte lagoon affluent water, Northern Tunisia: principal component analysis

Abstract

The monthly geochemical study of Bizerte lagoon principal affluent water consists in characterizing the water geochemical facies and their inorganic pollution degree by nutrients. The major elements analysis shows calcium sulfate to chloride calcium balanced facies. The geochemical analysis of water nutritive salts shows generally a good to excellent quality. Wadi Guenniche is considered more polluted as we recorded the highest nutrients contents. The principal component analysis of the connections between the physicochemical and geochemical parameters of Bizerte lagoon affluent water show that the low salinities, the turbidity, and the low contents of major sodium, chloride ions, and nutritive elements are the major factors of the environment controlling the good quality of this fresh water.