Assessing the Potential of Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) in Bio-monitoring of Atmospheric Pollution in Urban Katsina, Northern Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the use of Neem tree (Azadirachta indica)as a possible bio-monitor to effectively manage increased atmospheric pollution in Katsina Metropolis. In the light of this, leaves and bark samples of Neem tree were collected in KofarKaura, KofarKwaya and KofarMarusa (and at a control site located about 17km from the Katsina city) and analyzed for Cd, Mn, Pb, Cu, Zn and Fe using spectrophometer. The results obtained indicated clearly that the three areas of large human activity (KofarKwaya, KofarKaura and KofarMarusa) contained generally higher level of Cd, Pb, Zn, Mn, Cu and Fe than the control site. Of the six metals, Zn, Pb and Fe have the highest concentrations and Cu, Mn the least. The high levels of Pb and Zn were attributed to their use in petroleum products being heavily consumed in activities carried out in the activity areas. Levels of the metals are generally above the safety levels prescribed by international standards. In addition, it would affect human health because of the widespread use of leaves, seeds and barks of the specie for medicinal purposes. The heavy metal concentrations in bark, leaves and soil ofAzadirachtaindica (Neem) in the study area suggests that automobiles constitute a major source of atmospheric heavy metals pollution into the urban environment of Katsina city