Aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were quantified in harbors sediments from SE Brazil. The aims were to (i) compare harbors with distinct sizes and under the influence of different environmental pressures with respect to the sources and level of hydrocarbon contamination and (ii) evaluate the potential of adverse biological effects of sediment contamination by PAHs, based on sediment quality guidelines and toxicity equivalence quotient. The concentrations of total aliphatics (39.9μgg-1; 22.9-113μgg-1) and total PAHs (727ngg-1; 366-1760ngg-1) varied according to the size of and urban development around each harbor. Mixed contamination by petrogenic and pyrolytic hydrocarbons, and input of biogenic compounds, indicated the influence of both harbor activities and a myriad of urban, industrial and atmospheric inputs. The quality of sediment poses a risk to benthic biological communities, and, if dredged, this material may cause environmental damage in the waste disposal area.
Keywords: Aliphatic hydrocarbons; Contamination; Harbor areas; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); Sediment; Toxicity.
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