On the geochemistry of Gialova lagoon, SW Peloponnesus, Greece

The spatial distribution of lithological characteristics, organic carbon and major / trace elements was studied in the surface sediments of the Gialova lagoon, a shallow water lagoon (<1.0 m) which is located at southwestern Peloponnesus (Greece). The sediment samples were collected on the basis of a detailed bathymetric map and the backscatter properties of the lagoon floor acquired using high resolution side scan sonar on board of an Unmanned Surface Vehicle (U.S.V.). Four main geochemical phases were identified based on the elements – grain size – organic carbon associations. Geoaccumulation index (Igeo) was estimated for heavy metal concentrations showed low to moderate contamination for Mo, Pb, Ni, and Cr.