OIL POLLUTION IN THE SURFACE WATER OF THE AEGEAN SEA

Oil pollution in the surface water of the Aegean Sea

Bayram Öztürk, Kasim C. Güven, Filiz Nesimigil, Selin Cumali, Ayhan Dede

Istanbul University, Faculty of Fisheries, Marine Biology Department, Laleli, Istanbul, TURKEY
Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Vefa, Istanbul, TURKEY

Abstract

Oil pollution in the surface water of the Aegean Sea was investigated from the Çanakkale Strait (Dardanelles) to the Marmaris Harbour, during 17-25 April in 2005. The oil pollution of samples was determined by UVF, through various crude oils and also chrysene as references materials. The oil pollution in water was ranged from 6.17 μg/L at Datça to 59.58 μg/L at Kuşadası through Russian crude oil equivalent. The highest polluted areas were Babakale-Kuşadası Bay, West of Giadoros Island and Yalikavak – Kardak Island. The comparison the results of present work with the earlier findings, showed that the pollution level is increased during the years in this area.

Keywords: Aegean Sea, oil pollution, surface water