Spatial variation of coastal metal contamination and bioaccumulation in multiple intertidal invertebrates

Coastal ecosystems are impacted by anthropogenic activities, which contribute to the accumulation of metals in marine organisms. In this study, the concentrations of Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Li, Ni, Pb and Zn were measured in eight intertidal species ( Anemonia viridis , Asparagopsis taxiformis , Dasycladus vermicularis , Micromelo undatus , Pagurus anachoretus , Palaemon elegans , Phorcus sauciatus , and Stramonita haemastoma) to assess whether significant differences exist among three anthropogenically impacted sites on Tenerife ((Canary Islands): El Médano, Los Silos and La Punta del Hidalgo). Metal concentrations (mg/kg) were determined by ICP-OES. Sampling sites were selected for their varying anthropogenic impacts, including landfills, urban runoff, and submarine outfalls. El Médano generally showed the highest metal levels, followed by Los Silos, while La Punta del Hidalgo had the lowest. High Al levels were detected in M. undatus , P. anachoretus , and P. elegans , whereas S. haemastoma showed elevated Cd concentrations. Moreover, this study provides the first data on metal levels in M. undatus , P. anachoretus , and S. haemastoma in the Canary Islands, highlighting their role as bioindicators and the need for continuous monitoring support conservation strategies. • El Médano exhibited the highest metal contamination among the study sites. • S. haemastoma accumulated high Cd, while M. undatus showed high Al concentrations. • This study provides the first metal data for three species in the Canary Islands. • Findings validate these organisms as effective environmental bioindicators.