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Abstract
The presence of pesticide residues in aquatic organisms has become a growing public health concern due to the extensive use of agrochemicals and their potential to contaminate water bodies and aquatic food resources. This study focused on the determination of pesticide residues in the African freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium vollenhovenii, obtained from Oba Market. The aim was to assess the levels of pesticide contamination and evaluate potential risks associated with human consumption. Fresh prawn samples were randomly collected from different vendors in the market and transported to the laboratory for analysis. The samples were processed, extracted, and analyzed for selected pesticide residues using standard analytical techniques such as Gas Chromatography (GC) following appropriate extraction and clean-up procedures. The results revealed the presence of various pesticide residues, including organochlorine, organophosphate, and pyrethroid compounds, in varying concentrations within the prawn tissues. Some detected residues were found to be within permissible limits established by international regulatory agencies, while others approached or slightly exceeded recommended thresholds. The occurrence of these residues indicates possible environmental contamination of aquatic habitats resulting from agricultural runoff, improper pesticide disposal, and other anthropogenic activities. The study highlights the need for continuous monitoring of pesticide residues in aquatic food products sold in local markets to ensure food safety and protect public health. It also emphasizes the importance of implementing stricter regulations and promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices to minimize pesticide pollution in aquatic ecosystems. The findings provide useful baseline information for policymakers, environmental agencies, and public health authorities regarding pesticide contamination in seafood consumed in Benin City.
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