N. Golubkina1*, V. Lapchenko2, H. Lapchenko2, U. Plotnikova1, K. Krainuk3
1 Federal
Scientific Vegetable Center,
Selection str., 14, pos. VNIISSOK, Odintsovo district, Moscow region, 143072,
Russian Federation
2 T.I. Viazemsky Karadag
Scientific Station, Nature Reserve of RAS,
Sciences str., 24, Kurortnoe village, Feodosia, 298188, Feodosia, Republic of
Crimea, Russian Federation
3Nikitsky
Botanic Gardens,
Yalta, 298648, Republic of Crimea, Russian Federation
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ABSTRACT. The
main sources of essential trace element selenium (Se) to humans are plants,
animals and water. Though Se concentration in water is low, the values are
considered to be good markers of the environmental Se status. Se content in
groundwater of 22 springs, wells and bottled water samples produced at the
territory of the Crimea has been determined. Uneven distribution of Se at the
territory of the Crimea was reflected in a broad concentrations range of the
element from 0.082 to 7.85 µg/L with the highest values typical for Simferopol
well and 2 samples of bottled water: ‘Crimean paradise’ and ‘Kula’ (1.25–1.38
µg/L). Two liters of water from Simferopol well provide up to 24% of the daily
adequate Se consumption level. Chemical analysis of groundwater quality
recorded high ecological risks connected with increased nitrates levels in more
than 30% of samples investigated (up to 194 mg/L) and high mineralization (up
to 1540 mg/L). Chemical analysis of fresh water demonstrated unsuitability for
consumption of ‘Saki’ bottled water, characterized by significant MPC excess
for nitrates (4.3 MPC), chlorides (1.4 MPC), fluorine (1.19 MPC) and
mineralization (1.54 MPC). The work indicates the necessity of wide groundwater
quality monitoring for the whole Crimean peninsula.
KEYWORDS: selenium,
groundwater, Crimean peninsula, nitrates, mineralization.