Heavy Metal Assessment in Sediments of Qua Iboe River Estuary, South-South, Nigeria

Abstract

Heavy metal assessment in Sediments from Qua Iboe River Estuary, South-South, Nigeria was steered between January, 2022 and December, 2022 with the goal of understanding the route sources of heavy metal concentration within the system. Sediment samples were collected monthly from five stations taking cognizance of areas with high, medium and low human activities along the estuary. The samples collected were analyzed using standard protocol as recommended by APHA. Sediments mean values for wet and dry seasons observe were: Cadmium (0.20±0.04 and 0.19±0.04 mg/kg), Chromium (0.35±0.07 and 0.28±0.05 mg/kg), Copper (0.97±0.15and 10.94±0.14 mg/kg), Iron (130.79±13.69 and 115.29±10.19 mg/kg), Lead (0.56±0.06 and 0.54±0.06 mg/kg), Zinc (19.36±2.24 and 18.71±2.78 mg/kg). Heavy metal concentrations in sediments were below the DPR target / intervention limits with exception of iron without a standard. Analysis of variance and paired sample t-test revealed significant (p = 0.05) spatial variation but no seasonal variations were observed respectively. Values of trace metal recorded in the sediment throughout the study duration when compared to DPR target / intervention limit were below the threshold level as recommended. This suggest minimal anthropogenic activities during the period of studies. Nevertheless, constant monitoring of water bodies at regular interval is strongly recommended.