Heavy metals concentration of surface water, Sediments and some selected Fish species of Gurara reservoir, Kaduna State Nigeria.

Abstract

The concentrations of Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr) in water, sediment and selected fish samples from Gurara water reservoir, Kaduna State, were assessed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS 220 FS). Three samples each of selected Fish species (T. Zillii,O.niloticus and S.Galileaus),water and sediment from each Station were collected and analyze for heavy metals. Data obtained was subject to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed higher levels of Fe (248.7±55.78mg/l)Sediment, (11.7±3.13mg/l) Fish and (20.68±17.29mg/l) surface Water. Zn (1.01±0.67mg/l) Sediments,(1.53±1.51mg/l) fish and (0.64±0.37mg/l) Water, in comparison with FAO, NISand WHO standards,{(Fe; 0.3mg/l); (Zn:3mg/l);(Cr;0.05mg/l);(Pb;0.01);Cu;1mg/l) and(Cd;0.003mg/l)} of Drinking water quality Fe, Zn, Cr, Pb and Cu has exceeded the toxicity threshold in all the different samples. Cadmium was not detected in sediment, while it was in other samples (Water and Fish).The concentration was in trace amount below the United State Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) allowable limits in water. Other metals were below allowable limit in water with reference to the World Health Organization’s recommendation. This finding indicates that the surface water, Fish and Sediment iscontaminated and not safe for aquatic life. The highest concentration detectable was in the sediment sample followed by the concentrations in the fish samples. Iron concentration detected was highest followed by Zinc, Lead, Copper, and Chromium, However, Cadmium was mostly undetectable in most samples. Strategies need to be develop to reduce the contamination and the biological effects on fish and other living organisms in the reservoir.