Iranian Journal of

Background & Objectives: This paper, discussed the concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, nickel, chromium, iron, and magnesium in surface sediments of the Gulf of Chabahar. Materials & Methods: Samples of coastal sediment and shallow waters were collected from five different stations in summer and winter, 2013. Results: The research found that the concentrations of heavy metals in sediments is more than water, although the concentrations of metals in sediment and water from different stations followed a general trend. Seasonal variation had effect on the concentration of metals, so that in winter, the concentration of heavy metals such as copper, lead, zinc, cadmium, and nickel was more than of the summer season. Conclusion: Generally, concentration of heavy metals in the study area was less than the quality guidelines for sediments and water. However, between different stations, higher concentrations of heavy metals were found in stations nearby the fishing ports. The results show that increase in the concentrations of heavy metals can contribute considerable impacts on the pollution level due to fishing boats in the study area although some metals are also of natural origin.