Heavy Metals in Water of Upper Kolo Creek – Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Humans and aquatic inhabitants are affected by pollution which results in disruption of metabolic processes such as reproduction, development and growth of aquatic animals including fish. This study investigated the concentration of heavy metals in water and sediment obtained from upper kolo creek – Ogbia local Government of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. It is a fresh water non tidal creek geographically located at latitude 06^o 42¹ 0¹N and longitude 09^o 23¹ 8¹E. Five sampling locations were selected based on human population and presence of industrial activities. These are Otuegwe, Oruama, Imiringi, Kolo I and Emeyeal. Data generated were analysed using ANOVA. The highest levels of Cd (0.145, 0.123μgl^-1) Ni (11.154, 5.57μgl^-1) Cr (12.55, 11.07μgl^-1) and Pb (2.768, 1.352 μgl^-1) obtained from sampling locations were generally above recommended limit recommended by WHO for safe drinking water. They also exceeded level meant to protect fish health. The study revealed that the upper kolo creek is significantly polluted and therefore require attention in terms of pollution monitoring and control.

Keywords: Pollution, Heavy metals, Upper Kolo creek, Water and Sediment.