Biomineralization processes in heavily metal-polluted environments

Intense industrial activity in SW Sardinia has resulted in heavy metal dispersion processes over a large area. In this study biomineralization processes are shown to be useful for environmental monitoring, in agreement with existing literature. Investigations of benthic foraminifera sampled in shallow water from a metal-contaminated environment (Portoscuso, SW Sardinia) reveal intense micro-boring processes by cyanobacteria, chlorophycean, and fungi. A positive correlation between heavy metal impurity content (Pb and Zn, in particular) and bioerosional processes is found. This result indicates that in the investigated area, the amount of heavy metals discharged cannot be diluted or taken up via water-rock interaction, and are therefore released to the biosphere.