Analysis of influential physicochemical variables of Ebonyi River, Nigeria

Abstract

Analysis of influential physicochemical properties of an inland lotic system, Ebonyi River was conducted from September 2008 to February 2010 using standard water analysis methods, to evaluate the potential of the river to support enhanced fish production in an inland system where majority of the rural dwellers within the basin are undernourished and depend on the resource for survival. Parameters measured were transparency, water depth, dissolved oxygen, carbondioxide, pH, biochemical oxygen demand, total dissolved solids, alkalinity and conductivity. The data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results showed significant (p<0.01) seasonal variability of the parameters which is consistent with some tropical rivers but showed levels of variation in the river. Most of the parameters measured were within tolerable limits requisite for fish production. It was concluded that the river has a potentially strong influence in the development of aquaculture, fisheries production and research. Fish ranching, regulation of fishing activities and environmental monitoring are among the suggested management options that will guarantee sustainable use of Ebonyi River and also advised for other rivers in tropical regions of the world where poverty and undernourishment are endemic.