Physicochemical Parameters and Ecological Implications of Heavy Metal Contamination in Tympanotonus fuscatus from Woji-Elelenwo Creek, Rivers State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63561/jber.v3i1.1186Keywords:
Heavy Metals, Tympanotonus fuscatus, Ecological Implication, Enrichment Factor, Pollution Load IndexAbstract
This study aimed to analyze the physicochemical parameters of surface water and evaluate the ecological implications of heavy metals using Tympanotonus fuscatus from the Woji–Elelenwo Creek, Rivers State, Nigeria. Samples of surface water, sediments, and T. fuscatus were collected from four stations: Station 1 (Elelenwo Slaughter), Station 2 (Company Woji), Station 3 (ABEC Woji), and Station 4 (Okpoko), following standard procedures. Physicochemical parameters were determined in situ using a Hanna multi-parameter model HI 9829 water kit, while solid samples were transported to the laboratory for analysis. Metal concentrations (Pb, Mn, Cr, Cd, Fe, Zn, and Ni) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) and expressed in mg/kg. Ecological implications were assessed using the Pollution Load Index (PLI) and Enrichment Factor (EF), with Fe serving as the reference element. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the mean values of physicochemical parameters across the sampling stations. All measured parameters were within the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv, 2002) permissible limits, except for electrical conductivity. Enrichment factors ranged from depletion to significant enrichment (5.66E+00) in the order: Ni < Cr < Cd = Zn < Fe < Mn = Pb (0, 3.69E−01, 8.23E−01 = 8.23E−01, 9.04E−01, 5.14E+00 = 5.14E+00). Pb had the highest PLI value (5.14E+00), followed by Mn (1.44E+00), while Fe, Mn, Cr, Zn, and Ni had PLI values < 1. Overall, the study area exhibited moderate metal enrichment, with notable increases in Pb and Mn indices. Both positive and negative correlations were observed between metal concentrations in T. fuscatus and sediment, indicating direct uptake of metals from the environment by the organism. The elevated concentrations of metals and electrical conductivity suggest significant anthropogenic influence in the creek. Therefore, periodic assessment and monitoring of the aquatic environment are recommended, particularly for edible organisms, to ensure ecological and public health safety
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