Calotropis procera as a Bioindicator of Heavy Metals Pollution in Katsina Metropolis, Katsina Nigeria
Publication Date: 03/06/2019
Author(s): Samaila Muazu Batagarawa, Sada Lawal.
Volume/Issue: Volume 2 , Issue 2 (2019)
Abstract:
Bio-accumulation of some heavy metals was evaluated by using Calotropis procera as bioindicator plant in Katsina Metropolis. Calotropis procera, was identified and selected as a bioindicator for its availability in sub-Saharan Africa. The leaf samples were collected to assess the characteristics of accumulation and tolerance of Lead, Iron, Cadmium, Copper and Zinc in the plant. Samples were collected from five different locations (along major highways, residential and industrial areas in Katsina metropolis) by random selection. The samples were brought to the laboratory washed with deionised water, digested and analysed for Pb, Fe, Cd, Cu and Zn. The results show high concentration in some sampling sites especially at residential areas. The relative abundance of metals in the leaves follow the sequence: copper (30.91µgg-1) > iron (21.18 µgg-1)> cadmium (20.00 µgg-1)> Lead (18.86)>Zinc (5.56). The levels of Zn in all the sampling sites were below the FAO/WHO recommended limits for metals in plants. High concentrations of Pb, Cu, Fe and Cd in all the samples indicate that the plant has the ability to accumulate such toxic metals and hence can be used as a bioindicator of heavy metals pollution in the study area.
