L'arsenic en milieu marin. Biogeochimie et ecotoxicologie

Arsenic levels of in the marine environment are high in comparison with other contaminants. Over the past twenty years, a large number of arsenic organic compounds have been identified in the water, sediments and living species. This document constitutes a synthesis of current knowledge on arsenic sources, and contamination levels, on its biogeochemical cycle as well as its toxic effects on human and marine fauna. This paper highlights in particular the effects of phosynthesis on arsenic speciation and its distribution throughout the marine environment. Problems of toxicity in the case of certain phyto- and zooplankton species are identified. Bioaccumulation in seaweeds, molluscs and fishes is documented as well, with special attention to the species encountered in the French coastal waters.