Bayesian source apportionment and eco-probabilistic risk assessment of aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in sediments from the offshore area between the Deep Water Tano and West Cape three points blocks, Ghana

Ebenezer Aquisman Asare, Dickson Abdul-Wahab, Anita Asamoah, Samuel Boakye Dampare, Elsie Effah Kaufmann, Rafeah Wahi, Zainab Ngaini, Charles Kofi Klutse, Crentsil Kofi Bempah, Joseph Richmond Fianko, Gabriel Akwasi Gyasi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study investigates aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in sediments from offshore Ghana, focusing on their distribution, sources, and ecological risk. Samples were collected from 15 sites near Deep Water Tano and West Cape Three Points blocks. GC-FID and GC–MS analyses revealed higher concentrations in West Cape Three Points compared to Deep Water Tano. Bayesian source apportionment indicated microorganisms as the primary contributor to AHs in both areas. For polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pyrogenic sources dominated in Deep Water Tano (63.3 %), while grass/coal/wood combustion was primary in West Cape Three Points (60 %). Probabilistic risk assessment identified benzo[a]pyrene as posing the highest ecological risk. This study demonstrates the utility of Bayesian methods in identifying hydrocarbon sources and highlights the importance of species-specific sensitivities in ecological risk assessments, providing valuable insights for marine environment management.

Original languageEnglish
Article number117487
JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin
Volume211
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2025

Keywords

  • Benzo[a]pyrene
  • No-observed-effect concentrations
  • Petrogenic sources
  • Pyrogenic source

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Bayesian source apportionment and eco-probabilistic risk assessment of aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in sediments from the offshore area between the Deep Water Tano and West Cape three points blocks, Ghana'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this