The distributions of 15 out of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in surface and bottom water of Alexandria coasts (Egyptian Mediterranean Sea). Total average PAH concentrations were ranged from 9.89 to 677.25 ng/l, and from 2.21 to 345.29 ng/l in surface and bottom water, respectively. PAH concentrations were at relatively low levels compared to those reported for other estuaries and marine systems around the world. The ΣCOMB and ΣTF-PAHs suggest the origin of hydrocarbons. The h igher concentrations of total pyrolytic hydrocarbons (ΣCOMB) than that of total fossil hydrocarbons (ΣTFPAH) declared that atmospheric fall-out from traffic exhausts wa s the significant source of PAHs to marine environment of the semi-closed areas of Alexandria. Interferences of rather petrogenic and pyrolytic PAH contaminations were noticed in the harbours, especially marine area due to petroleum products deliveries and fuel combustion emissions from the ships awaiting along side the quays.
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