Abstract
The Paraiba do Sul River receives both industrial and domestic wastes, mostly without any treatment. According to previous studies performed in the mid point portion of the river, as well as, in some of its tributaries (Paraibuna, Pomba and Muriae Rivers), contamination by heavy metals has been reported. The main source of these pollutants are industrial effluents and urban wastes (Torres, 1992; Malm, 1986; Azcue, 1987) and gold mining activities in some tributaries (Pomba and Muriae Rivers) (Souza, 1994). Although these pollution sources were identified, heavy metal concentrations observed in the continental shelf near the mouth of Paraiba do Sul River, showed little or no antropogenic influence, and could be considered without metal contamination (Carvalho, 1992; Lacerda et al, 1993). Therefore, the lower section of the Paraiba do Sul River may act as an efficient trap for heavy metals, decreasing their concentration in the coastal waters. The Paraiba do Sul River has a drainage area of approximately 55.400 km 2
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