Geochemistry of the upper Parana river foodplain: study of the Garças Pond and Patos Pond

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the temporal evolution of the supply of chemical elements to the Upper Parana´ River floodplain and identify trends in the geochemistry of its drainage basin. The primary factor that regulates the supply of chemical elements of the Upper Parana´ River floodplain is the flood pulse, which can be magnified by the El Nin˜o—Southern Oscillation. Garc¸as Pond is affected by agriculture, urbanization, discharge of industrial effluents and hydroelectric power production activities. Patos Pond is affected by sugarcane burning, gold mining, agriculture and urbanization.