Sources, distribution and composition of the suspended sediments, Kuwait Bay, Northern Arabian Gulf

Qualitative and quantitative assessment of suspended sediment levels and transport pathways in Kuwait's northern territorial waters are described, with special reference to Kuwait Bay. Near-surface water samples were collected from 12 stations, covering the whole of the embayment. Suspended sediment concentrations (SSCs) were derived. Heavy metal concentrations, mineralogical composition and grain size constituents were derived for the suspended sediments retained on the filter papers. The distribution pattern of the suspended sediments indicates the possibility of tidal current activity, dust fallout contribution and to a lesser extent, the effect of the Shatt Al-Arab (especially in northeastern Kuwait Bay). The distribution of various types of sediments and the variations of their textural, compositional and concentrations are controlled largely by the hydrodynamic conditions, nature of sediments. The results demonstrate clearly the potential impact of the Gulf War as manifested by the increase of SSC in 1992, compared to 1989/1990. Such an input may be attributed also to drainage processes from the Iraqi marshes. More studies are required to understand the environmental impacts of the suspended matter and the associated pollutants.