The Impact of Oil Exploration Activities on Soil, Water and Shrimps of Maa-Or Gbor in Korokoro Community, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Crude oil exploration and its associated spillage pose a major threat to the environment in Nigeria and if not checked and managed properly, could lead to total annihilation of the ecosystem especially in the Niger Delta Region. Therefore, this study examines the impact of oil spill on soil, water and shrimps from Maa-or gbor. Water and soil samples were collected in the upstream, midstream and downstream, while shrimps from the river were also collected. They were digested with nitric acid. The heavy metal components were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer while physiochemical parameters were determined using different analytical methods. The result of the metals concentration in the soil showed that the values of some of the metals analyzed were within the acceptable limit of FAO/WHO except for Cu, Mn and Fe values. The result of water quality showed that pH values of the stations were in the range of 6.08-6.20 and a mean value of 6.15± 0.05 for the three stations, which is lower than the limit (6.5- 8.5) recommended for drinking water. Also the result showed that Station C had the highest conductivity value when compared with other stations, and significantly differs when compared with station B. However, the values of the electrical conductivity in all the stations were lower than that of FEPA acceptable limit of 250, while the mean value for the stations was 60.9± 3.42. Trace metals concentration in shrimps was below FAO/WHO acceptable limit. The result obtained for water quality index was147. This value is above the recommended standard for drinking water, thus indicates poor quality water status of Maa-or gbor and unfit for human consumption.