Assessment of Spatial Variations of Heavy Metals in Superficial Sediments of Ikpoba River and Comparison with Sediment Quality Guidelines

Abstract

Superficial sediment samples were collected from seven stations of Ikpoba River. Heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cu, Fe and Cd) were determined in the sediments using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. In this study, Fe had the highest mean concentrations followed by Cu, Pb and Ni. Generally, heavy metal concentration in the sediments of Ikpoba River showed an elevated concentration of all the metals at station 7 (Guinness Brewery). This can be attributed to the release of effluents from the Brewery. The values for Pb, Ni, Fe and Cd were well below threshold effects concentrations (TEC). For Cu, 66.77% of the values were below TEC while 33.33% of the values exceeded threshold probable effects concentrations (PEC). This implies that if pollution of station 4 with Cu continues, the toxicological potentials of the sediment with respect to Cu pollution may be severe. It affects various blood parameters, growth, behaviour, enzyme activity, and reproduction. Continuous monitoring of Ikpoba River is recommended.

Keywords: Metal, Aquatic, Sediment, Contamination, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer