Fish Contamination

Aquatic ecosystems are often subject to contamination by heavy metals due to human and natural activities. This study was conducted to determine the concentrations of heavy metals present in water, sediment and fish samples collected from Ikpoba River, Benin City, Nigeria. Samples were collected over from June to August 2023 and analysed using standard methods. The findings showed that while Cd and Pb were not detected in the water, Ni and Cr exceeded permissible limits. However, the concentrations of Co were within limits. Sediment samples had comparatively low heavy metal content. Benthic fish were found to have higher concentrations of heavy metals than pelagic fish. However, the concentrations of these metals in the samples were below the recommended limits for heavy metals in food. Therefore, it was concluded that the fish in the study area are safe for consumption but the water is not. Hence, routine surveillance and implementation of measures to protect water quality such as prevention of waste discharge are recommended