TRACE-METAL CONTENT IN SOME SEAWEEDS FROM THE NORTHERN ADRIATIC

Twenty-three common seaweeds from the eulittoral and upper sublittoral in the northern Adriatic (Piran and Rovinj, Istrian coast) were analysed for levels of trace metals (Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Co, Ni). Differences in the levels of metals between species and genera were considered as well as differences between seaweeds from the two areas. Seasonal variations were also observed in some species. Results indicated that Mn concentrations in algal tissue are the main distinguishing character between taxonomic groups as well as in seasonal- and habitat-conditioned variations.