Evaluation of Heavy Metal Concentrations in Fish Tissues from the Tributaries of Ikpukulu River in Okirika L.G.A, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Abstract:

This study assessed the concentrations of selected heavy metals lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) in the muscle, liver, and gills of Tilapia guineensis obtained from three locations of the tributaries of Ikpukulu River in the Dick-Fiberisima-Ama, Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Sample analysis was conducted using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Results revealed bioaccumulation of these metals in fish tissues across all sampling points, with the general order of concentration observed as Zn > Cr > Ni > Pb > Cd at Dick-Fiberesima-Ama Creek (Point 1), Egbe-Ama Creek (Point 2), and Ogan-Ama Creek (Point 3). Mean concentrations ranged from 1.56±0.048 to 15.68±0.008 mg/kg in muscle, 2.85±0.053 to 11.35±0.053 mg/kg in liver, and 4.12±0.004 to 13.68±0.009 mg/kg in gills. Notably, levels of Pb, Cr, and Ni exceeded the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO 2011), indicating potential health risks for consumers. These elevated concentrations may be linked to anthropogenic activities such as illegal oil bunkering and waterway transportation. Therefore, public health awareness campaigns and the implementation of effective environmental management strategies are recommended to safeguard both human health and aquatic life in the region.