Metal concentrations in sediments from the Finniss Rivera.

aMean (and standard deviation) values (expressed as mg/kg dry weight) based on data from 1996 to 2005 (n = 4–6), including data from this study. Values represent weak acid exchangeable metals associated with the clay/silt/sand (bSediment quality guideline (SQG) value below which there is a low probability of biological effect (Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb and Cd – [24]; U – [48]). Sediment metal concentrations that exceed this value are indicated with bold text.cSediment quality guideline (SQG) value above which there is a high probability of biological effect (Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb and Cd – [34]; U – [48]). Sediment metal concentrations that exceed this value are indicated with an asterisk(*).