Zn, Pb, Cr and Cd concentrations in fish, water and sediment from the Azuabie Creek, Port Harcourt

Abstract

Gills, intestine and muscle samples of O niloticus, water and surface sediments of Azuabie Creek and a central station were collected and analysed for Zn, Pb, Cr and Cd using AAS model 210VGP Buck Scientific USA. Heavy metal concentrations in fish muscle show high concentration especially Pb which is far above the 0.5 mg/kg permissible limit of FAO. The bioaccumulation factor, estimated daily intake and hazard quotient were estimated. An hazard index of 7.56 was recorded in Azuabie Creek. The concentrations of metals in the fish organs assessed varied significantly (P < 0.05).

Keywords: Heavy metals, Bioaccumulation factor, EDI, Oreochromis niloticus, Azuabie creek