SEASONAL VARIATION OF SOME TRACE ELEMENTS CONTENT IN THE RED SEA WATERS AT AL-GHARDAQA.

SEASONAL VARIATION OF SOME TRACE ELEMENTS
CONTENT IN THE RED SEA WATERS AT AL-GHARDAQA.
ALI I. BELTAGY

Marine Biological Station.

Al-Ghardaqa. Red Sea. Egypt~

ABSTRACT
A study of the seasonal variation of three trace
elements~ namely iron. copper and manganese. was carried
out in the Red Sea water at Al-Ghardaqa. An area covering
approximately 900 km2 was surveyed during the periods
1967 – 1968 and 1974 – 1976.
The seasonal variation’ patterns of the elements were
not alike. Total iron in the area showed maximum
concentrations during winter months and minimum
concentrations during summer months. Copper showed two
relative maximums during winter and summer seasons. with
higher values during summer months. Minimum copper
concentrati ons were recorded duri ng autumn. Manganese
showed maximum concentration during autumn and minimum
concentration during spring months.
The seasonal variations of the elements were attributed
to:
1) the selective utility of these elements by different
marine organisms; 2) decomposition of dead organic matter;3)
air-borne material transported to the sea by strong winds
during winter time