Assessment of Heavy Metals Accumulation in Prevalent Fish Species from Omambala River, Anambra State, Nigeria

Okeke PA, Ayaobu Cookey IK, Evulobi OOC and Umeh CC

Published on: 2026-03-14

Abstract

Assessment of heavy metal concentrations in most prevalent fish species in Omambala River in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra state, was carried out between October, 2021 to January, 2022. The three most prevalent fish species within this period were Clarias gariepinus. Channa obscura and Orochromis niloticus. The level of concentration of heavy metals Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb) and Manganese (Mn) were assessed in fin, gills and muscle of these species, using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results showed that the fin and gills on the average absorbed more metals in all the fishes studied when compared with the muscles. The order of heavy metal concentration in C. gariepinus was Cadmium was highest in the gills (0.37±0.45mg/l) followed by fin (0.26±0.38mg/l) while the muscle had the least concentration (0.15±0.23mg/l). Cadmium was found to occur the highest in all the fish species studied. The concentration of heavy metals on the three fish species studied were within the WHO and FEPA permissible limits. It is necessary that regular biological monitoring of the river and fish meant for consumption should be done to ensure continuous safety of fish food.