Effects of Seasonal Variations on the Heavy Metal and Proximate Composition of Prawn Samples from Two Locations in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Prawn is widely consumed seafood harvested in the riverine parts of Nigeria providing a source of proteins, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Oil production activities in the Niger Delta region have significantly affected water bodies with resultant effect on seafood production and consumption. Prawn samples were collected from Nembe and Azuzuama, Bayelsa State, Nigeria and analyzed for comparison of heavy metal and proximate composition over the dry and wet seasons. High levels of cadmium (0.033 ppm and 0.027 ppm) and chromium (0.021 ppm and 0.020 ppm) were reported although they were below the recommended permissible limits. The proximate composition of the prawn samples were within the documented range. However, carbohydrate and energy content increased during the wet season while protein and lipid content reduced. The results were significant at p(0.05) r(cal)0.814<r(tab)0.974. Further studies at regular intervals are recommended for effective monitoring in a region of increasing oil production activities.