Elizabeth Ishioma ONWUKA

Contamination from various pollutants has been a major threat to water bodies, resulting in the accumulation of minerals. This study evaluated and compared the concentration and distribution of minerals (Na, Mg, Ca, K, P) in two fish species (Parachanna obscura and Malapterurus electricus). Samples from both species were taken, processed and analyzed in the laboratory. The results were then presented in mean ± standard deviation format. The mean concentration of sodium in Parachanna obscura was 1.75 ± 0.29 while that of Malapterurus electricus was 0.90 ± 0.19, the mean concentration in Parachanna obscura was 18.65 ± 5.63 while that of
Malapterurus electricus was10.81 ± 2.42, the mean concentration of Phosphorus in Parachanna obscura was 9.76 ± 2.02 while that of Malapterurus electricus was 8.16 ± 1.66. In Parachanna obscura, magnesium mean concentration was 9.35 ± 2.24 while that of Malapterurus electricus was 6.45 ±1.52 and lastly, the mean value of concentration of calcium in both species were 1.88 ± 0.62 and 1.18 ± 0.22 respectively. From the result, Parachanna obscura showed higher mean concentration across all measured minerals thereby indicating a greater nutritional benefit from it. This finding provides valuable insights into nutritional planning, dietary choices and fish consumption. There is need for further research to explore seasonal/environmental factors that may influence mineral levels in the species as well as the reduction of environmental pollution and preserve public health.