Potential of heavy metal contamination in cultivated red seaweed (Gracilaria sp. and Eucheuma cottonii) from coastal area of Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Heavy metal is one of the widespread environmental contaminants in Indonesian coastal waters. These heavy metals have a potential negative impact on the aquatic organism and the people who consumed it. Most seaweed cultivation in Indonesia is located in urbanized estuaries, cultivated seaweed can accumulate contaminants such as heavy metals. This study focuses on the analysis of heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in Gracilaria sp. and Eucheuma cottonii from various cultivation areas in Java, Indonesia. The purpose of this study is to find out whether seaweed can pose a potential risk to consumers and know the source of heavy metal contamination. The Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) method was used to determine the heavy metal level in seaweed. These results indicate generally that heavy metal contents of seaweeds cultivated urbanized estuaries should be monitored since accumulation appears to be site-dependent. Seaweed that cultivated in locations around the industry with poor waste management has an impact on higher levels of heavy metal.