GLOBAL IMPACTS OF HEAVY METALS ACCUMULATION IN FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS

Abstract

The article considers the global environmental problem of the accumulation of heavy metals in freshwater ecosystems. The main sources of inorganic pollutants entering water bodies are analyzed, among which industrial discharges, agrochemical runoff, urban drainage and atmospheric precipitation play a leading role. The chemical forms of the existence of heavy metals in the aquatic environment, their migration, bioavailability and ability to bioaccumulate and biomagnificate are described. The toxic effect of cadmium, lead, mercury, copper, zinc, nickel on aquatic organisms is revealed, which manifests itself at the cellular, physiological and population levels, leading to disruption of the functioning of biocenoses and a decrease in the stability of ecosystems. Specific examples of pollution of the Saksagan, Ingulets, Supii, Dniester rivers are given, where exceeding the maximum permissible concentrations of metals in water, bottom sediments and fish tissues was recorded. Cases of toxic pollution of water bodies in China, India, the USA and other countries are highlighted, confirming the global nature of the problem. Modern methods of research and monitoring are analyzed, including atomic absorption spectrophotometry, bioindication and geoinformation mapping. The need for an integrated approach to minimizing environmental impacts is emphasized, which involves a combination of technological solutions, regulatory regulation, ecosystem management and intersectoral cooperation. Prospects for further research are outlined, in particular in the direction of developing digital monitoring systems, adapting international environmental standards and introducing innovative means of purifying the aquatic environment.