Assessment of heavy metals of the mangrove flats over the largest delta, Beibu Gulf in China: coastal ecological risk with management strategies

Key Points

• Heavy metals in mangrove flats pose significant ecological risks to coastal ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Concentrations of metals like lead and mercury were notably high, highlighting environmental concerns.
• Assessment of heavy metals in the Beibu Gulf delta through ecological risk evaluation revealed management strategies are needed.
• Effective management strategies could potentially mitigate risks, though local assessments and policies are crucial.