Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in surface water in arid areas can pose a serious threat to natural environment and human health.

In a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, a research team led by Prof. Jilili Abuduwaili from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences investigated the health risks of PTEs in surface water in the Tarim River Basin, China.

The researchers collected surface water samples at 34 locations across the Tarim River Basin and measured the concentration of PTEs (As, Co, Cu, and Ni) in the samples.

They compared the concentrations of PTEs in the Tarim River with those of other rivers around the world, and found lower PTE concentrations in the Tarim River, except for As. 

The maximum As concentration was found the upstream of the Tarim River. High concentrations of Cu, Ni and Co were found in the catchment areas, while low concentrations of these elements were found in the high mountain upstream areas.

To assess human health risks, researchers employed Bayesian analysis. They found that the non-carcinogenic risk of exposure to PTEs was acceptable in four age groups (infants, children, adolescents and adults).

"Due to the high evapotranspiration during the dry season, special attention should be paid to the fluctuation of the concentrations of PTEs in the catchment areas (lake or reservoir)," said LI Yizhen from XIEG, first author of this study.

This study provides a scientific basis for water safety strategies and environmental protection.