Heavy Metal Pollution Research Articles

Sources analysis and risk assessment of heavy metals in soil in a polymetallic mining area in southeastern Hubei based on Monte Carlo simulation.

This study investigates the pollution characteristics, spatial patterns, causes, and ecological risks of heavy metals in the soils of the southeastern Hubei polymetallic mining areas, specifically the Jilongshan (JLS) and Tonglushan (TLS) regions, located in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The main findings are as follows: (1) Among the heavy metals present in the soil, copper (Cu) has the highest average concentration at 278.54 mg/kg, followed by zinc (Zn) at 161.16 mg/kg, chromium (Cr) at 75.23 mg/kg, nickel (Ni) at 30.38 mg/kg, arsenic (As) at 22.53 mg/kg, cadmium (Cd) at 0.76 mg/kg, and mercury (Hg) at 0.14 mg/kg; (2) The distribution of heavy metal concentrations exhibits significant regional variations, with the spatial pattern of pollution indicating that TLS is more affected than JLS, as evidenced by the Pollution Load Index (PLI) values; (3) Three potential sources of heavy metals were identified: natural sources, anthropogenic activities (including industrial production and agricultural practices), and atmospheric deposition (both dry and wet); (4) While severe contamination levels of specific metals such as copper and cadmium are observed in JLS and TLS soils, the overall contamination is mild, suggesting complex contamination dynamics; (5) Cadmium poses a moderate to high ecological risk, being the most sensitive factor in the comprehensive ecological risk assessment with a contribution rate of 65.2 %; (6) The concentrations of heavy metals in the soil present certain health risks, with children being more vulnerable than adults. This study helps to identify the hot spots and pollution patterns of heavy metal pollution in polymetallic mining areas and provides a theoretical basis for the study of local countermeasures against pollution. Based on the research results, management measures and ecological restoration suggestions are proposed, which are important for reducing soil insecurity and coping with climate change.

Research and application discussion on new technology for detecting cadmium ions based on a near-red light carbon dot fluorescence quenching method.

Cadmium ions are considered one of the most dangerous heavy metal pollutants. The human body does not require cadmium for growth and development, yet continuous intake of cadmium ions due to environmental pollution can lead to their accumulation in the body. This accumulation can result in damage to the urinary system and, in severe cases, pose life-threatening risks. The current conventional methods for analyzing heavy metals in the environment primarily include inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). These methods are known for their drawbacks such as complex testing procedures, as well as expensive instrumentation and equipment. In this study, a novel technique for detecting cadmium ions using the near-red light carbon spot fluorescence burst method was developed. The near-infrared carbon dots (NIR-CDs) exhibited vibrant deep red fluorescence ranging from 625 to 710 nm, with a prominent peak at 685 nm. At a pH of 7 and a concentration of 0.1805 g L-1, the linear detection range for Cd2+ was determined to be 0.15-0.75 μM. The CDs demonstrated selectivity for Cd2+ detection, boasting an impressive detection limit of 0.397 nM. Mechanistic studies indicated that the interaction between red carbon dots and cadmium ions involved dynamic bursting of the ions. The practical application of the near-red light carbon spot fluorescence burst method for detecting cadmium ions could be further explored through the establishment of a Cd2+ recovery detection system.

Microbial community structure and causal analysis in sediments of shallow eutrophic freshwater lakes under heavy metal compound pollution.

Heavy metals, due to their toxicity, persistence, and non-biodegradability, have become some of the most severe environmental pollutants globally. Their accumulation in lake sediments can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems' biogeochemical cycles by altering the ecological dynamics of microbial communities. To further elucidate the mechanisms underlying microbial responses to complex heavy metal pollution in lake sediments, sediment samples were collected from Nan Yi Lake, and their physicochemical properties and microbial composition were systematically analyzed. The results demonstrated that the sediments of Nan Yi Lake were significantly contaminated with heavy metals, which were identified as the predominant factors shaping microbial community structure. Heavy metals influenced microbial richness and distribution patterns along sediment depth gradients, driving the establishment of optimal ecological niches. Meanwhile, other physicochemical factors indirectly affected microbial communities by modulating the concentration of heavy metals. Furthermore, the microbial co-occurrence network was closely associated with the concentrations of Fe and As, with sediment particle size also playing a contributing role. This study highlights the intricate interactions between physicochemical factors and microorganisms, offering critical insights into the multifaceted impacts of heavy metal compound pollution on lake ecosystems. It provides a scientific foundation for effective management of lake environmental pollution and ecological restoration efforts.

Remediation of combined heavy metal pollution in groundwater of lead–zinc mining areas by multimedium permeable reactive barriers: From simulation experiments to application design

Remediation of combined heavy metal pollution in groundwater of lead–zinc mining areas by multimedium permeable reactive barriers: From simulation experiments to application design

Use of EDS/EDX to evaluate heavy metals pollution in water sources

The objective of the study was to evaluate the role of brick kilns in contaminating water bodies with heavy metals in Punjab, India. The energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS/EDX) machine effectively tested heavy metals in water samples. The research revealed that the surface water near the brick kilns was extensively polluted with heavy metals. Their Pollution Load Index (PLI) values varied between 2.83 and 52.98, and their degree of contamination was “Progressive deterioration”. The PLI values for groundwater ranged between 0.089 and 3.68, and the degree of contamination varied from “Baseline levels of pollutants” to “Progressive deterioration”. In general, the groundwater of the studied area had a PLI value of 0.477 (Baseline levels of pollutants), whereas the surface water had a PLI value of 11.453 (Progressive deterioration). The Water Quality Index (WQI) of groundwater was highly influenced by heavy metals, notably Arsenic (As) from lithologic origins, and Lead (Pb) from the burning of fuels in the brick kilns. In descending order, Pb>Zn>As>Cr>Ni metals were influencing the PLI, and the correlation matrixes demonstrated that the presence of heavy metals was associated with the PLI and WQI values. Therefore, there is evidence that brick kilns are polluting water bodies with heavy metals. EDS proved to be one of the instruments to evaluate the chemical elements in water. It was recommended to enforce the law governing the use of biomass to reduce vast quantities of coal used in baking bricks.

Analysis of heavy metal pollution of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in soil at Putri Cempo Landfill, Indonesia

The correlation between heavy metals and environmental pollution is undeniable. This is due to the presence of various types of heavy metals and an increase in the value of heavy metal content, which directly results in a decrease in soil fertility. This study aims to determine the content of heavy metals Fe and Zn in the soil of Putri Cempo Landfill. Analysis of heavy metal substances Fe and Zn is focused because basically both substances are substances that are commonly found in the soil. The method used to measure Fe and Zn is the Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) method The parameters tested were Iron (Fe) 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5 ppm while for Zinc (Zn) 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.5, 2 ppm. The sample was then wet destroyed and then tested. Analysis of the results of the equation of the line on the curve obtained a linear regression of the relationship between absorbance and concentration of the standard Fe solution is y = 0.1431 and x = 4.184173 where y is the absorbance value and x is the Fe content. R2 value 1 (R2 = 0.9992). Linear regression of the relationship between absorbance and concentration of standard Fe solution is y = 0.1431 and x = 4.184173 mg/Kg, where y is the absorbance value and x is the Fe content. Putri Cempo Landfill soil is still below the specified threshold value. Based on these results, the land in TP Putri Cempo is still considered good for use by human activities, agriculture and for ecology.

From contamination to detection: The growing threat of heavy metals.

Heavy metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic are environmental pollutants that accumulate in ecosystems and pose significant health risks to humans and wildlife, primarily through food chain contamination where plants absorb heavy metals, affecting their growth and threatening consumer health. Cognitive and cardiovascular functions are particularly affected by exposure to heavy metals even at low concentrations through the induction of oxidative stress. Various analytical techniques are used in measuring heavy metals in different environmental and biological samples. The atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) offers low cost, simplicity, and portability but lacks sensitivity for certain metals. Although more sensitive, the high cost of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) may limit laboratory accessibility. The inductively coupled plasma with atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) is known for its broad dynamic linear range and ability to identify minute variations in concentration. Atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) is considered a powerful tool for quantifying heavy metals due to its high sensitivity, low detection limits, and wide linear range. The current article reviews heavy metal pollution's impact on health and spectrometric techniques for the detection of these contaminants. This may help efforts of international, and regional policies towards preventing this health hazard problem.

Physicochemical Qualities and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Drinking Water From Selected Areas of the Gofa Zone, Ethiopia

Spring and well waters are among the most important sources of drinking water in Gofa Zone rural areas; therefore, it is vital to evaluate the quality of these water sources. Hence, this study aims to determine the physicochemical parameters and metallic mineral concentration with its associated health risks of drinking water in selected rural areas of the Gofa zone, Ethiopia. The purposive sampling method was used for water sample collection. Standard analytical procedures were used to determine the physicochemical parameters and mineral contents. The average values of all physicochemical parameters of spring and well‐drinking water of the selected areas were obtained as temperature (20.73°C and 20.30°C), pH (7.2 and 6.07), electrical conductivity (481.13 µS/cm and 584.24 µS/cm), dissolved oxygen (4.09 and 6.07 mg/L), turbidity (1.60 NTU and 6.55 NTU), total dissolved solids (330.83 and 338.3 mg/L), total suspended solids (84.76 and 89.24 mg/L), chloride concentrations (58.15 and 60.47 mg/L), SO42− ion (68.50 mg/L and 5.58 mg/L), NO3+ ion (3.25 and 2.75 mg/L), and fluoride ion concentration (0.49 mg/L and 0.37 mg/L). Health risk assessment indicates that Co metal showed high hazard indices compared with Fe, Cu, and Zn. Additionally, the values of the heavy metal pollution index (MPI) and heavy metal evaluation index (HEI) indicate that the Sawla Kusti spring water (SSW5), Geze Gofa Mhirzho Wola spring water (GGSW7), and Geze Gofa Bulki Guya well water (BGWW8) sources are considered highly polluted and not recommended for drinking purposes.

Enhancing Miscanthus floridulus remediation of soil cadmium using Beauveria bassiana FE14: Plant growth promotion and microbial interactions.

Soil heavy metal pollution presents substantial risks to food security and human health. This study focused on the efficiency of plant growth-promoting fungus-Beauveria bassiana FE14 and Miscanthus floridulus on the synergistic remediation of soil Cd contamination. Results revealed that B. bassiana FE14 significantly enhanced the growth of M. floridulus, substantially decreased Cd content in soil by 79.39 %, and modified enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase) to alleviate Cd-induced oxidative stress in plants, determined by the physical and chemical indicators and enzyme activities of soil and plant. Based on microbiome analysis, this study also found significant changes in the composition, structure, and molecular ecological network of endophytic bacterial communities in roots, but this study had little effect on the bacterial and fungal communities in rhizosphere soil. In addition, the key genera (including Sphingomonas, unclassified_Comamonadaceae, Massilia, Bradyrhizobium, and Paraglomus) and key genes/enzymes (including cadC, zinc transporter, zinc and cadmium transporter, exoZ/Y/Z, catalase-peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, nitrite reductase, acid phosphatase, etc.) were involved in promoting plant growth and alleviating Cd stress. These findings revealed the potential of B. bassiana FE14 and M. floridulus working in synergy to enhance the phytoremediation efficiency of Cd-contaminated soils, thus presenting a promising approach for integrated plant-microbe remediation strategies.

Dynamic responses and adsorption mechanisms of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii extracellular polymeric substances under Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn exposure.

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) can effectively attenuate heavy metal mobility in aquatic ecosystems and reduce metal toxicity to cells. However, a systematic study of microalgae EPS responses and their adsorption behaviors, characteristics, and mechanisms under different heavy metal exposures has not been performed. In this study, EPS extracted from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii CC-125 was analyzed for compositional changes (monosaccharides and proteins) under Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn treatments. The EPS adsorption capacities and mechanisms for the four metal ions were also investigated. Cd (10 mg/L), Cu (5 mg/L), and Zn (5 mg/L) exposure induced changes in the microalgal EPS composition and structure, and a protein/polysaccharide ratio of greater than 1 was found. This result indicated the crucial role of proteins in stress resistance. In contrast, Pb stress resulted in an increase of 532.64% and 117.48% in proteins and polysaccharides, respectively, with galactose and glucose playing key roles in this process. A fluorescence analysis revealed that Cd/Pb exposure reduced the tryptophan and tyrosine levels in the EPS, while Cu/Zn only weakened tryptophan. As a biosorbent, the adsorption capacity of the EPS for the four metals followed the order of Pb > Cd > Cu > Zn. The fluorescence quenching titration results revealed that fluorescent compounds in the EPS had the strongest complexation ability with Pb (logKSV: 8.16 × 103), followed by Cu (logKSV: 1.79 × 103), while their abilities for Cd and Zn were weaker. A spectroscopic analysis indicated that the primary functional groups involved in EPS binding with Pb/Cd and Cd/Zn were protein carboxyl groups (C=O/O-C=O) and glycosidic bonds (C-OH/C-O-C), respectively. This study elucidates the response strategies and adsorption mechanisms of the C. reinhardtii EPS to different metals and provides a basis for environmental heavy metal pollution bioremediation.

Prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes in mining-impacted farmland environments.

Mining activities produce large quantities of tailings and acid mine drainage, which contain varieties of heavy metals, thereby affecting the downstream farmland soils and crops. Heavy metals could induce antibiotic resistance through co-selection pressure. However, the profiles of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the mining-affected farmland soils and crops are still unclear. Here we investigated contents of heavy metals, ARG abundances, mobile genetic elements (MGEs), and microbial community in mining-affected farmland soils and vegetables from Shangba village (SB), in comparison to a nearby reference village Taiping (TP). Results showed that in SB group, except for Cr, other metals were all above the Chinese Standards. When compared with the reference group, higher ARG abundances were detected in mining-affected farmland soils and vegetables, with great proportions of genes resistant to sulfonamides, chloramphenicols and tetracyclines. In addition, positive correlations were found between the above three ARG classes and heavy metals concentrations (especially Cu, Pb and Zn). Spearman's correlations revealed that there were positive correlations between sul1 and total nitrogen, as well as tetB/P and pH. Additionally, the Shannon index values were different for the samples from two villages (p < 0.05). Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were dominant phyla in soil samples. Network analysis suggested that multiple genera (belonging to Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria) were positively associated with many ARGs (p < 0.05), implying they might be potential hosts for ARGs. To sum up, this study provided clear evidence that mining activities caused severe heavy metals pollution to the farmland, thus posing co-selection pressure on the persistence of ARGs in the affected farmland environments.

Association between heavy metal exposure and bacterial vaginosis: A cross-sectional study.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a prevalent cause of vaginal symptoms in women of reproductive age. With the widespread of heavy metal pollutants and their harmful function on women's immune and hormonal systems, it is necessary to explore the association between heavy metal exposure and BV. This study investigates the potential relationship between serum heavy metals and bacterial vaginosis in a cohort of American women. The present study employed a cross-sectional analysis of 2,493 women participating in the 2001-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multivariable logistic regression models were utilized in the study to assess the correlation between these variables. A stratified analysis was performed to investigate the relationship among different population groups further, and smooth curve fittings were conducted to intuitively evaluate the correlation. According to the current cross-sectional study results, a significant correlation was identified between the high levels of lead and cadmium in the serum and the likelihood of developing bacterial vaginosis. We found that serum lead (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.06-1.72, p = 0.016) and serum cadmium (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.01-1.98, p = 0.047) increased the risk of bacterial vaginosis by 35% and 41%, respectively, in the highest level group in comparison to the lowest level group in the fully adjusted model. Furthermore, the research discovered no statistically significant association between the levels of total mercury in the serum and a heightened susceptibility to bacterial vaginosis (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.75-1.23, p = 0.763). Results of our study indicated an inverse association between serum heavy metals and bacterial vaginosis risk, including lead and cadmium. Reducing exposure to heavy metals could be vital to preventing and managing bacterial vaginosis.

Analysis of heavy metal pollution of chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) in soil at Putri Cempo Landfill, Indonesia

Putri Cempo Landfill uses open dumping which can increase the risk of soil pollution due to heavy metals. Heavy metal contamination is a critical issue because it negatively impacts human health and causes environmental damage that can threaten the sustainability of the economy and ecosystems at a global level. This study aims to analyse the current conditions regarding the concentration of heavy metals in the soil at Putri Cempo Landfill with the parameters of heavy metals Cr and Ni and to determine the impact of these heavy metals on human health. Analysis of Cr and Ni content was carried out using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Data analysis was carried out by comparing the content of heavy metals in the soil at Putri Cempo Landfill with the SNI on the Threshold Limit Value (NAB) of Heavy Metals in Sediment/Soil. The results of laboratory tests showed that there was a content of heavy metals Cr of 1.2279 mg/L and Ni of 0.94842 mg/L. It can be concluded that with the Cr and Ni content, the soil at Putri Cempo Landfill has exceeded the limits set by SNI so that it can be considered contaminated by heavy metals Cr and Ni. This finding points to the need for mitigation to reduce health and environmental risks. It is recommended to enhance public education, improve waste management, implement remediation techniques, and regularly monitor air and soil quality. These steps can protect health and reduce the long-term impact of pollution if carried out sustainably.

MACHINE LEARNING-BASED FORECASTING OF BIOACCUMULATION AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL EFFECTS IN AQUATIC ORGANISMS

Heavy metal contamination in freshwater environments poses significant risks to aquatic organisms and human health, as these heavy metals enter freshwater systems through various sources, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, mining and atmospheric deposition. Efforts to develop efficient methods for removing heavy metals from wastewater have gained momentum in recent years. This study focuses on machine learning (ML) models for predicting the bioaccumulation and histopathological effects of heavy metal pollutants on aquatic life under various climate change scenarios. The ML models have shown promise in forecasting the impacts of heavy metal pollution on freshwater ecosystems and informing conservation strategies. It is crucial to understand the complex interactions between environmental factors, climate change and ecosystem health. This study discusses the importance of incorporating diverse species and environmental factors in these models and acknowledges potential challenges, such as inaccuracies and data misinterpretation. Enhancing the predictive capabilities of ML models is essential for better environmental management and conservation practices via refinement and validation of models using updated data and advanced methodologies. This study also emphasizes the broad potential of ML in environmental research, improvement of model capabilities and challenges posed by heavy metal pollution and climate change.

Bioaccumulation of long-term atmospheric heavy metal pollution within the Carpathian arch: monumental trees and their leaves memoir

Bioaccumulation of long-term atmospheric heavy metal pollution within the Carpathian arch: monumental trees and their leaves memoir

Environmental degradation of Nike lake: a study on water quality parameters and heavy metal accumulation in fish

Environmental pollution is a pressing global issue, with heavy metal pollution posing a significant threat. This study examined the concentrations of heavy metals (cadmium, nickel, lead, chromium, manganese, iron, zinc, copper, mercury, selenium, and arsenic) in various organs and tissues (blood, gills, intestines, liver) of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Redbelly Tilapia (Tilapia zillii) from Nike Lake in Enugu State, Nigeria. Water samples from the lake were also analyzed for heavy metal concentrations, as well as nitrogen and phosphorous content, nitrate, phosphate, and dissolved oxygen levels. The results showed that the fish samples contained varying concentrations of heavy metals, with the highest levels found in the gills. The ranges of metal concentrations were: Cd (0.00-0.033), Ni (0.00-0.002), Pb (0.00-0.072), Cr (0.00-0.039), Mn (0.00-0.041), Fe (0.010-1.363), Zn (0.268-0.604), Cu (0.008-0.084), Hg (0.00-0.147), Se (0.293-0.474), Mo (0.020-0.095), and As (0.00-0.034). The water samples contained similar concentrations of heavy metals, were Cd:0.02, Ni:0.001, Pb:0.034, Cr:0.00, Mn:0.012, Fe:0.037, Zn:0.173, Cu:0.008, Hg:0.147, Se:0.309, Mo:0.027, As:0.004, with the addition of nitrate (4.373), phosphate (4.383), and dissolved oxygen (45.33) levels. The nitrogen and phosphorous content in the fish organs ranged from 2.938-4.987 and 3.089-7.484, respectively. The study highlights the presence of toxic heavy metals in the organs of the fish, emphasizing the need for regulation and monitoring to mitigate the risks associated with heavy metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems.

Adverse health effects of heavy metal pollution in the Enugu Area, Southeastern Nigeria

Adverse health effects of heavy metal pollution in the Enugu Area, Southeastern Nigeria

Investigating the Social and Environmental Accounting Implementation in the Reclamation of Former Mining Sreas: A Case Study of PT. Kitadin

The mining industry significantly contributes to economic development through tax revenue and export duties but also poses serious social and environmental risks, such as heavy metal pollution, air pollution, land subsidence, and forest degradation. These concerns necessitate responsible mining practices and effective reclamation. This study examined the implementation of social and environmental accounting in ex-mining land reclamation using PT. Kitadin as a case study. An interpretive qualitative approach explores a company's practices in managing environmental responsibilities. Research shows that PT. Kitadin, in its post-mining phase since March 2023, has engaged in land reclamation, revegetation, air and water management, and repurposing of ex-mining areas. The company systematically recorded and measured the environmental impact of its reclamation efforts by integrating these aspects into financial statements and sustainability reports. Additionally, PT. Kitadin has addressed social implications by engaging with stakeholders, including local communities and NGOs. This comprehensive approach underscores a company's commitment to post-mining responsibilities, in line with corporate standards. The findings contribute to the understanding of how mining companies can implement social and environmental accounting in reclamation, balancing economic, environmental, and social considerations.

Modification of Agricultural Waste Carbon Adsorbents with Iron and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Heavy Metals Removal: A Scoping Review of the Literature

Introduction: Considering the damage caused by heavy metal pollution, researchers and environmental health organizations have prioritized developing methods to remove heavy metal ions from polluted water. This study reviews existing literature on the use of agricultural waste, as well as the modification of agricultural waste with iron and iron oxides, for heavy metal removal. Materials and Methods: The systematic review included a search for relevant literature published between 2000 and 2022 in English, with 45 articles being selected for inclusion. After removal of duplicates and screening for eligibility, thematic analysis was conducted to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of practical, economic methods for preparing and modifying agricultural waste for heavy metal removal. Results: A total of 45 articles were selected for inclusion, covering the preparation and modification of adsorbents from cellulose sources and agricultural waste. Thematic analysis revealed that agricultural waste is an environmentally friendly adsorbent with a high capacity for removing cadmium, lead, and arsenic from aqueous solutions. Moreover, modified adsorbents with iron and iron oxide nanoparticles demonstrated superior adsorption capacities compared to their unmodified counterparts. Conclusion: This review highlights the potential of utilizing cellulose sources, particularly processed fruit waste, as a suitable material for preparing carbon-based adsorbents and modifying their surfaces with iron and iron oxide nanoparticles. Their abundance, adsorption capacity, low cost, and availability make them a promising solution for removing heavy metals from aqueous solutions.

Non-lethal sampling of phalanges for heavy metal bioaccumulation in Pelophylax nigromaculatus from historical mercury mining areas in Southwestern China

The Wanshan mercury mining area (WMMA) in Guizhou Province, China, has been identified as a region at high ecological risk owing to heavy metal contamination. This study employed non-lethal sampling methods, using the phalanges of Pelophylax nigromaculatus in the WMMA as analytical material. Ten heavy metal (metalloid) elements were selected for analysis, including Hg, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, As, and Se. These elements were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), while Hg was determined using atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS). The bioaccumulation characteristics of heavy metals in P. nigromaculatus were analyzed through the bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and the extent of heavy metal pollution along with potential ecological risk was assessed using the potential ecological risk index (RI). The scaled mass index (SMI) was utilized to evaluate the body condition of P. nigromaculatus. Additionally, a combination of Spearman correlation analysis and non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) was employed to identify the sources and contributions of heavy metal elements. The results indicated that the distribution characteristics of heavy metal elements in the phalanges of P. nigromaculatus varied. Except for Pb, the concentrations of essential trace elements were significantly higher than those of non-essential elements. The bioaccumulation potential of P. nigromaculatus for heavy metal elements in the soil was found to be low, whereas the exposure risk from heavy metals in the water was high. The presence of heavy metal elements poses a significant potential ecological risk to P. nigromaculatus, with Hg, Cd, and As identified as the primary contributors to this risk. The environmental sources of heavy metals were identified as follows: Hg, Pb, Zn, and Se mainly originated from mining pollution sources; As and Cd primarily came from atmospheric pollution sources; Cr and Cu were mainly from natural activities sources; and Mn and Ni had multiple composite sources. Although heavy metal pollution negatively impacted the physical condition of P. nigromaculatus, no significant differences in SMI were observed across different regions. We believe that this is primarily attributable to the high levels of Se, which effectively mitigate the toxicity of heavy metals. The study demonstrated that using frog phalanges for heavy metal bioaccumulation analysis and SMI for physical condition assessment are simple, safe, and non-lethal methods, which can serve as useful indicators of environmental pollution and help trace the sources of environmental pollutants.