Bonny River Research Articles

Physicochemical and Fungal Analysis of a Hydrocarbon-Polluted Soil at Amadi-Ama Creek of Bonny River Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Numerous hydrocarbon-utilizing fungal species have been implicated with the ability to utilize/degrade hydrocarbon as carbon source, which indicate their potential for environmental cleanup in hydrocarbon-contaminated sites. In this study, five (5) indigenous fungal species were isolated from a petroleum-hydrocarbon polluted soil at Amadi-ama Creek, Bonny river shoreline, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. These fungal species may have high potential to biodegrade petroleum hydrocarbon pollutants. Samples were collected randomly from the hydrocarbon impacted soil at Amadi-ama Creek, Bonny river shoreline. Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Czapek Agar were used as growth media. Samples were examined to assess the physical and chemical characteristics such as conductivity, pH, temperature, nitrate, iron, copper, zinc, chromium, phosphate, sulphate, total hydrocarbon content, total petroleum hydrocarbon, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. These parameters are known to influence the occurrence, diversity and distribution of microorganisms in an ecological niche. Soil pH showed to be acidic (6.21), result also showed that Total hydrocarbon content, Total petroleum hydrocarbon and Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon values were at 306.55mg/kg, 112.134mg/kg, 44.227mg/kg respectively establishing the incidence of hydrocarbon pollution. Electrical conductivity and Temperature were at 1250 Us/cm, and 29.580C respectively while Nitrate, Phosphate, Sulphate, Iron, Copper, Zinc, and Chromium values were at 1.228mg/kg, 0.751mg/kg, 20.214mg/kg, 18.431mg/kg, 0.113mg/kg, 0.121mg/kg, and 0.042mg/kg respectively. Monitoring of the soil quality established the incidence of hydrocarbon pollution as well the incidence of anthropogenic influence on the soil putting into cognizance human activities at the shoreline. Morphological identification of obtained fungal species led to their assignment into four (4) genera and five (5) species; Aspergillus niger (28%), Aspergillus flavus (22%), Cladosporium herbarum (20%), Penicillium notatum (17%), Fusarium spp (11%). The predominance of Aspergillus isolates (28% and 22%) in this study could be a pointer to their potential to utilize hydrocarbon as their sole source of nutrient. The isolation of these indigenous fungal species could serve as a baseline study on which further analysis such as hydrocarbon degradation screening test could determine their individual hydrocarbon degradation potentials and subsequent consideration as hydrocarbon degrading microbes in subsequent bioremediation study.

Assessment of Metal Concentration and Bioaccumulation Factor in Surface Water and Fishes Sampled From Four Creeks in the Bonny River Estuary, Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

The indiscriminate disposal of industrial and urban waste has added to the concerns of global water pollution. Anthropogenic activities and activities of oil companies (oil spills) have also contributed to the pollution of the aquatic ecosystem in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. This study was therefore designed to evaluate the concentration of Iron, Nickel, Lead, Cadmium and Chromium in our surface waters and our marine life. Samples of surface water were collected into 50 cl sterile plastic bottles and labelled accordingly. Twenty medium-sized tilapia fishes from about a one-kilometre radius of each site were caught and also labelled accordingly. Water and fishes from each site were then kept in a cooler, iced and immediately transported to the laboratories for analysis for heavy metals after these fishes were homogenised using a blender. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used for the metal analysis. Standards were prepared using tracecert of each of the above-mentioned metals. The results of these study sites (Akpajo, Okujagu, Woji and Elelenwo) had high concentrations of metals. Fishes from all these sites also had high concentration of these metals. The trend of metal concentration in the surface water as follows: Okujagu–Pb>Cr> Cd>Fe = Ni, Akpajo–Cd>Fe>Pb>Cr>Ni, Elelenwo–Pb>Cr>Fe>Cd>Ni, Woji–Cr>Cd>Pb>Fe>Ni. Results obtained also revealed the trend of metal concentration in fish muscles as follows: Okujagu–Pb>Cr> Cd>Fe = Ni, Akpajo– Cd>Fe>Pb>Cr>Ni, Elelenwo–Pb>Cr>Fe>Cd>Ni and Woji–Cr>Cd>Pb>Fe>Ni. Fishes and surface water sampled from these four creeks in the Bonny estuary in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria had high concentrations of iron, nickel, cadmium, chromium and lead in relation to their concentration in surface water. The results of this study revealed that metal concentration in surface water had some relative effect on their concentration in the fishes. This, therefore, means consumption of these fishes may lead to the accumulation of these metals in man to a toxic concentration. This may be one of the reasons for the increase in some heavy metal-related health issues (diabetes, renal diseases) in this region.

Identification of exopolysaccharide synthesizing genes in bacteria isolated from Bonny River in Rivers State, Nigeria

Microbial polysaccharide is the most important biopolymer secreted either by bacteria, fungi, or yeast as natural non-toxic, biodegradable and renewable sugar monomers. Microbial EPS owing to their interesting physicochemical and rheological properties has a wide range of industrial application such as in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and Microbial enhanced oil recovery. This study was aimed to identify exopolysaccharide synthesizing genes in three bacterial isolates from Bonny River in Rivers State, Nigeria. The bacterial isolates were identified using the 16S rRNA gene sequence of the strains which carefully studied by making reference to the GenBank database using a BLAST search as Bacillus xiamensis, Bacillus safensis and Exiguobacterium aurantiacum using 16S rRNA PCR technique. Two priming Gylcosyltranferase genes (pGT) rfbp and cpsD were probed in the genome of the isolates after identification of the isolates. Two isolates Bacillus safensis and Exiguobacterium aurantiacum had both rfbp and cpsD genes while Bacillus xiamensis had only rfbp gene but no cpsD gene. The three isolates were examined for the Exopolysaccharide production on a minimal medium that contained g/l: KH2PO4 0.2, K2HPO4 1.5, MgSO4.7H2O 0.2, CaSO4.2H2O 0.1, FeCl3 0.002, yeast extract 0.5 and sucrose 20 and all three isolates produced EPS. At Optimum biomass of 0.15g/10 ml, the highest EPS yield of 10.20 g/l was obtained from Bacillus safenis. Exiguobacterium aurantiacum had optimum biomass of 0.11g/10ml with an EPS yield of 6.15g/l. The least biomass of 0.08g/10ml and EPS yield of 3.62 g/10ml was observed in Bacillus xiamensis. The biomass production was determined at Optical Density (OD) of 600nm while the EPS production was quantified by the Phenol Sulphuric acid method using glucose as a standard.

Modelling and Mapping Oil Pollution across the Inland and Coastal Waters: A Case of Selected Segment of Gulf of Guinea

Artisanal fisheries in the Niger Delta and Nigeria’s coastal waters support the livelihood of its inhabitants, thus management of water pollution has public health significance for the regions and beyond. Oil Spills and contaminated runoff from the hinterland always find their way to the coast via the extensive network of rivers and creeks across the delta. This is a major cause of marine pollution in the region. With this understanding there is a need to map and model the dynamics of oil pollution across the coastal waters of the Niger Delta, thereby providing evidence and data support for their management. This study explored the potential of mapping oil slicks along the inland and coastal water of the Niger Delta using the SENTINEL-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). The Interferometric Wide Swath Mode imagery Ground Range Detected Imagery for the 2nd of January 2019 was acquired for the study area, processed using Sentinel Application Platform (SNAP) and the oil spill detection algorithm was applied on the Amplitude Vertical-Vertical Band. After preprocessing, the non-polluted areas were found to have high backscatter (amplitude >18.0). For the impacted areas, lower values were recorded - amplitude decibel value of between 15.9 and 18.0. A total of 329 polygons of oil slick were identified, covering an area of 46.34 km2. The impacted surface area ranges between 0.000064 – 15 km2. The farthest impacted surface can be found around 18.25km from the Bonny coastline. Results showed that a significant proportion of the oil slicks are concentrated along the upper reaches of the Bonny River spanning Okrika and Ogu/Bolo LGA. Towards the nearshore, the oil slicks were disaggregated into several units. Contiguous units were found closer to the banks and coastline. Out of the 329 polygons, 14 were identified along the New Calabar River, emptying into the Bonny Estuary. The impacted surfaces along the New Calabar River were smaller in size compared to those found along the Bonny River. The results identified the pattern and distribution of oil slicks across a segment of the Gulf of Guinea dominated by oil and gas industry activities. This study highlighted the potential of remotely sensed data to support coastal pollution management efforts. It further highlighted the potential for spatiotemporal monitoring of oil slicks along coastal and inland waters. Challenges for deploying such a platform include the high computing power required and the lack of in-situ monitoring data for validation.

Ecotoxicological status, source apportionment and human health risk assessment of potential toxic element in surface water and sediments of creeks along Bonny River, Nigeria

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) are naturally available in the environment; however, anthropogenic activities encourage their high concentration, posing environmental and human health risks. The ecotoxicological status, source apportionment and health risk assessment of PTEs (Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni), Cadmium (Cd), Selenium (Se), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr) and Copper (Cu)) in creeks (Fibiri and Iwoama) along Bonny River were examined through laboratory analysis (American Public Health Association standard), indicators and statistical techniques. The PTEs concentration of surface water and sediment for both creeks exceeded the WHO allowable limit, and the surface water trended as Cr > Pb > Fe > Ni > Cd > Zn > Cu > Se for Fibiri creeks, Fe > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd > Zn > Cu > Se for Iwoama creek while the sediment trended as Fe > Pb > Ni > Cr > Zn > Cd > Cu > Se for both creeks. The contamination factor (CF) of the creek’s sediment showed low CF (Zn and Cu), moderate CF (Ni, Pb and Cr) and very high CF (Fe and Cd), while risk index status ranged from low risk (Ni, Zn, Pb, Cr and Cu), moderate risk (Fe) and significantly high risk (Cd). The human health risk revealed that children could be exposed to potential non-carcinogenic effect (HI > 1) with Zn (1.64 and 2.03), and the Total Carcinogenic Risk (TCR) for children indicated high carcinogenic risk (TCR > 1 × 10−4) for Ni, Pb, Cr and Cd of the creeks’ environmental mediums. The similarity in the trend and status of the creeks suggested that both environments are exposed to similar anthropogenic activities impact.

Uyo, Akwa Ibom State and the Challenges of Tourism Development: the case of Inappropriate Urban Development Drives

Geographically, AkwaIbom State is divided into the coastal mangroves of Africa Central and transition areas at the southernmost point. The Imo and Cross Rivers, flow along the eastern and western borders respectively, while Kwa Ibo River crosses the state before flowing into the Bonny River. Economically, the state is the hub of crude oil and natural gas production in the country; with Ibeno, Mbo and Eastern Obolo as oil-producing local government area’s key minor industries involve agriculture as the state has substantial cocoyam, yam, and plantain crops along with fishing and agriculture. Yet, the state has no substantive or reasonable convention centre. Convention centre is one of the key segments of the events industry, along with hotels, and unique shows. They are designed to host any type of event, including conferences, conventions, and exhibitions. They are mostly located in or near the urban centres or other major population centres and are designed to meet the unique needs of the gathering groups, organizers, visitors, and exhibitors. In the past, the government approaches to urban development programmes are regrettable, retrogressive and benign. As a result, adequate measures and proper administrative management of the government laws and policies are recommended for tourism development in Uyo. Hiring of poorly trained and unqualified personals should be minimized and properly and adequately trained professionals in different areas of interest hired to man and manage the facilities of the state for upwards growth. The urban players in the state should pay more and better attention to the state’s tourism development hence, a sustainable convention centre.

Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Selected Water Bodies in Rivers State, Nigeria

This study aimed to assess of microplastic pollution in selected water bodies in River State, Nigeria. Two water bodies, one fresh water (New Calabar River) and one estuary (Bonny River) were sampled in the present study for presence of microplastics in water, sediment and fish samples in the aquatic milieu. Microplastics were extracted using standard methods and were characterized using GCMS. Four plastic types namely polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polypropylene was detected in all samples. Likewise, four plasticizers namely dioctyl terephthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ether, acrylic fibre and tetrabromobisphenol A were all detected in sediment, water and fish samples from Bonny River and New Calabar River. FTIR analysis of microplastics showed patterns typical of polystyrene. This study has shown that water, sediment and fish samples contain microplastics. This is a worrisome development as the water are used for domestic purposes among persons resident along the water courses and the fish species sampled is commonly available as source of protein for majority of persons. This calls for greater enlightenment on the possible danger of microplastics pollution in the study area and for measures to check macroplastics pollution, which bring about microplastics pollution in the aquatic environment. Such measures should include promotion of the use of plant material as food wrappings and to dissuade dumping of solid waste in the rivers.

Pollution Status of Inland Waterways Serving as Receptacles to Plastic Waste in Rivers State, Nigeria

This study aimed at ascertaining the physicochemical characteristics of selected water bodies receiving solid plastic waste in Rivers State, Nigeria. Surface water and sediment samples were analysed for physicochemical parameters. Water, sediment and fish samples were monitored for presence of polychlorinated bisphenols (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). All physicochemical parameters monitored in Bonny River water and sediment samples were within WHO acceptable. However, the concentrations of nitrate and phosphate (62.675 and 1.28 ppm) in New Calabar River water samples were above WHO limits of 10 and 1 ppm respectively. The Cd values (0.045-8.27 mg/l) at both locations exceeded WHO 0.003 mg/l limit. Likewise, Mn concentrations (6.02-15.5 mg/l) exceeded WHO 5.5 mg/l. Mercury (0.075-1.39 mg/l) was the lowest occurring heavy metal in the water samples but the concentration was still high enough for concern, as the possibility for bioaccumulation in fish species in the river was high. Chloride levels (318.375-423.045 mg/l) in the water samples exceeded WHO limit of 250 mg/l for drinking water. The samples also had high iron content (0.635-16.19 mg/l). PAHs concentrations (252.0155-3533.14 ppm) in the water samples far exceeded the safe level of 10 mg/l for drinking water standard. PCBs levels in all fish samples (21.56-83.08 ppm) exceeded WHO maximum limit of 0.2 mg/kg Surface water, sediment and fish sampled contained objectionable concentrations of heavy metals, PCBs and PAHs. Users of these rivers for domestic purposes are at high risk of chemical poisoning from heavy metals, PCBs and PAHs.

Environmental Trace Metal Concentrations in the Okrika Stretch: A Comprehensive Study on Pollution Indicators

The Okrika Stretch of Bonny River, Nigeria, has long been a vital ecological and economic resource for the surrounding communities. However, increasing industrialization and anthropogenic activities have raised concerns about the potential pollution of this precious aquatic ecosystem. This study delves into the assessment of environmental trace metal concentrations, specifically Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe), as pollution indicators in various components of the Okrika Stretch. The research scrutinizes water, sediment, oyster, and periwinkle samples, utilizing cutting-edge analytical techniques to measure trace metal levels. Sampling was carried out at five distinct locations, including a control site situated outside the presumed affected area, for both dry and wet seasons throughout the year. Following collection, the samples of water, sediment, oyster, and periwinkle underwent digestion and subsequent analysis using the Bulk Scientific Model 200A Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Our findings reveal a complex interplay of trace metal concentrations across different environmental components. The water samples exhibit varying levels of these metals, reflecting the dynamic nature of riverine systems. Sediment analysis identifies hotspots of metal accumulation, potentially posing risks to aquatic life. Oysters and periwinkles, as vital components of the food web, accumulate trace metals at different rates, providing insights into potential human health implications. This research not only sheds light on the current state of pollution within the Okrika Stretch but also underscores the importance of continued monitoring and mitigation efforts. The results call for a comprehensive environmental management strategy to safeguard the ecological and economic sustainability of the Bonny River region. By addressing the complexities of trace metal pollution, this study contributes to the broader discourse on safeguarding our invaluable aquatic ecosystems worldwide.

Potential Toxic elements in shellfish from three rivers in Niger Delta, Nigeria: bioaccumulation, dietary intake, and human health risk assessment

Human health risks associated with the consumption of three shellfish (<i>Penaeus monodon, Crassostrea rhizophorae</i>, and <i>Tympanostomus fuscatus</i>) harvested from the Buguma, Krakrama, and Bonny Rivers in the Niger Delta region were evaluated in this study. The bioaccumulation of potential toxic elements (PTEs) [Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb), and Nickel (Ni)] was analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The pollution index (PPI), estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total hazard index (HI), target cancer risk (CR), and total cancer risk (TCR) were evaluated for potential human health risks. The bioaccumulation levels of PTEs in shellfish samples followed the order: Ni > Cr > Pb > Cd > As and were above standard recommended limits except for inorganic As levels observed in <i>T. fuscatus</i> and <i>P. monodon</i> samples from Krakrama and Bonny and <i>C. rhizophorae</i> from Bonny river. The EDI values for iAs, Cr, and Ni were lower than the tolerable daily intake (TDI), however, the EDI of Cd for children in <i>P. monodon</i> (4.6E-03 mg kg<sup>-1</sup>day<sup>-1</sup>), <i>T. fuscatus</i> (1.7E-03 mg kg-<sup>-1</sup>day<sup>-1</sup>) and C. rhizophorae (1.4E-03 mg kg<sup>-1</sup>day<sup>-1</sup>) from Buguma were higher than the TDI value (8.00E-04 mg kg<sup>-1</sup>day<sup>-1</sup>). The HI values were above 1. The total cancer risk (TCR) values of all analyzed PTEs for all the shellfish species from the rivers for children and adults ranged from 8.69E-04 to 2.47E-03 and 1.86E-03 to 5.30E-03 respectively and these were higher than the priority risk level (1E-04), hence, the need to monitor shellfish consumption in the study area.

Association of Erythrocytes Sedimentation Rate and Platelets Indices in Diabetes in the Elderly

Recent research indicates that inflammation can contribute to the etiology of diabetes which is characterized by hyperglycemia and abnormalities in insulin secretion and/or activity. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is the most often utilized laboratory test for detecting systemic inflammation among all plasma inflammatory indicators. Patients with diabetes have reportedly shown altered platelets, due to "prothrombotic condition" with increased platelet reactivity leading to vascular problems. The objective of the study was to relate platelet indices and erythrocyte sedimentation rates with Diabetes. The morphology, metabolism, and function of erythrocytes are invariably subject to a number of alterations when there is persistent hyperglycemia. Few prospective studies have looked at this issue, hence, the investigation of the link between Erythrocytes Sedimentation Rate and Platelets indices in Diabetes in a private hospital in Port Harcourt (Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State is the major city, situated by the Bonny River in Southern Nigeria), The study had 100 subjects who gave their consent and were chosen from among others for this cross-sectional study. Fifty patients were confirmed diabetes (21 men and 29 women; mean age: 60.1±5.02 years) and 50 control subjects without diabetes (20 men and 30 women; mean age: 58.08±5.67 years). Aseptic blood collection techniques were used to obtain blood samples from the diabetic and control groups into EDTA vials. The Sysmex XE-2100 Haematology Automated Analyzer was used to estimate platelet indices, and the Western green method was used to calculate ESR. Using the Excel Data Analysis Tool pack, the estimated values of the parameters were statistically evaluated. Both the control and diabetes groups, displayed a statistically significant difference in the mean values of ESR hence the level in the diabetic group showed greater mean values when compared to the control group values 37.42±20.55 mm/hr and 29.78±13.26 mm/hr respectively at (P=0.029). Comparing the means of the platelet indices between the two groups at a significance level of (P=0.674), there was no discernible change. The clinical diagnostic utility of ESR as a helpful indicator for following diabetic patients' progress strongly correlates with the frequency and intensity of inflammation in diabetes. It was concluded that inflammation plays a role in the development of diabetes is constantly supported by this study.

Pollution and Potential Ecological Risk Evaluation Associated with Toxic Metals in an Impacted Mangrove Swamp in Niger Delta, Nigeria.

Anthropogenic activities along coastal areas have contributed to the unwarranted discharge of toxic metals into mangrove swamps, posing risks to marine deposits and ecological environments. In this research, we studied the Isaka−Bundu tidal swamp area in the Niger Delta, which is an impacted mangrove creek located along the Bonny river, exposed to pollution pressures. The ecological risks (Er) of toxic metals in the sediments and water of the Isaka−Bundu tidal mangrove swamp followed a decreasing order (Cu > Zn > Cd > Cu > Pb > As), according to our results, while the potential ecological risk index (PERI) of the toxic metals in the sediments and water of the Isaka−Bundu tidal mangrove swamp can be said to have a very high ecological risk (PERI ≥ 600). The sediment pollution load index (PLI) was higher than 1 in all three analyzed stations, suggesting extremely toxic pollution. The enrichment evaluation shows that the studied stations have a moderate potential ecological risk of Cd, with the enrichment value for Pb showing low potential ecological risk. Our study shows that the Isaka−Bundu tidal mangrove swamp has a significant level of toxic metal pollution, which is evidence of the illegal activities performed in the Niger Delta.

Toxicity of Herbicide, Paraquat Dichloride and Insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin on Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, Pantoa dispersa in Aquatic Ecosystems

Aim: The study was aimed to determine the toxicity of paraquat dichloride and lambda-cyhalothrin on phosphate solubilizing bacteria, Pantoa dispersa in aquatic ecosystems.
 Study Design: This study employs randomized block design, statistical analysis of the data and interpretation.
 Place and Duration of the Study: Soil sample was collected from the root nodules of leguminous plants in a sterile polythene bag from the Elele, in Etche L.G.A, Rivers State. The fresh water sample was collected from Bane town in Khana L.G.A, brackish water sample was collected from Choba river in Obio/Akpor L.G.A while the marine water was collected from Bonny River of Bonny L.G.A., all of Rivers State, Nigeria. The samples were collected aseptically and transported in an ice-pack immediately to the Rivers State University, Microbiology laboratory for analysis. The study lasted for three months.
 Methodology: The bacterium, Pantoa dispersa was isolated and identified based on conventional and molecular characterization from water and soil samples. Different concentrations (3.13%, 6.25, 12.50, 25.00%, 50.00% and 75.00%) and the control (0%) of the herbicide (paraquat dichloride) and insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin were prepared using fresh, brackish and marine water samples and 10ml of the test organism, Pantoa dispersa was introduced and the survival count was determined at 0, 4hr, 8hr, 12hr and 24hr. The Mean Lethal Concentration (LC50) of the insecticide and herbicide on Pantoa dispersa in the three aquatic ecosystem was determined.
 Results: The LC50 of the herbicide (Paraquat dichloride) was recorded as 15.8% in brackish water, 17.37% in fresh water and 27.44% in marine water. While the LC50 of the insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin to Pantoa dispersa was 26.84% in fresh water, 27.26% in brackish water and 32.33% in marine water.
 Conclusion: From the study, the herbicide, Paraquat dichloride was more toxic in the three aquatic ecosystems compared to the insecticide, Lambda-cyhalothrin. The use of these agrochemicals should be monitored as they result in the mortality of beneficial soil bacteria like Pantoa dispersa which is phosphate solubilizing bacteria in aquatic ecosystems.

Concentration, dietary exposure and human health risk assessment of total petroleum and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in seafood from coastal communities in Rivers State, Nigeria

The total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in some seafood samples namely Tympanostomus fuscatus (periwinkle), Crassostrea rhizophorae (Oyster) and Penaeus monodon (Shrimps) from three riverine communities - Buguma, Krakrama, and Bonny - in Rivers State, Nigeria and associated health risks were analyzed. Three samples of seafood were collected using fishing nets, knife and handpicking. The TPHs and PAHs levels were determined using the Gas Chromatography – Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) instrument. The highest concentrations of TPHs were observed in C. rhizosphere (90.60 ± 5.39 mg kg−1) samples from Buguma River, T. fuscatus (86.65 ± 2.92 mg kg−1) and P. monodon (83.90 ± 3.66 mg kg−1) samples from Krakrama River while the least value of 60.60 ± 2.14 mg kg−1 was recorded in P. monodon from Bonny. The highest concentrations of PAHs deposits were observed in T. fuscatus (62.28 ± 0.75 mg kg−1), and C. rhizophorae (50.40 ± 0.73 mg kg−1) samples from Buguma, and P. monodon (53.86 ± 1.66 mg kg−1) sample from Bonny River. The ratio of low molecular weight (LMW)/high molecular weight (HMW) PAH for seafood collected from all the locations was> 1 except T. fuscatus (0.95) collected from Krakama, these results, suggests that the PAH source may be petrogenic. The calculated toxic equivalency quotient (TEQ) values of carcinogenic PAHs ranged from 1.2E-02 to 9.7E-01 which is above the screening value (SV) of 2.5E-03 suggesting possible cancer risk. Risk index (RI) based on carcinogenic (and mutagenic) quotient due to PAHs via consumption of seafood indicate that the congeners present in T. fuscatus and C. rhizophorae obtained from Buguma and P. monodon from Bonny locations can cause cancer in receptors and therefore, the need for quick intervention by environmental agencies.

E&P Notes (April 2022)

E&P Notes (April 2022)

Report on the incidences of skeletal anomalies in three fish species from Bonny tributary (Niger delta), Nigeria

Three cases of skeletal anomalies in fishes Elops lacerta Valenciennes, 1847 (family Elopidae), Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Cichlidae) and Arius latiscutatus Günther, 1864 (Ariidae) collected in the Elechi Creek, a tributary of the Bonny River (Niger delta) were reported for the first time in the present study. The anomalies are pugheadness, complete absence of pelvic fins and deformed dorsal, pectoral and pelvic fins. Three specimens of E. lacerta have shown the case of pugheadness but at different levels of severity. The specimen of O. niloticus showed a complete absence of the pelvic fins. Externally, the area where the bases of the pelvic fins should be found (underneath the pectoral fins) showed a normal scale covering (in scale form and size). Internally and by using radiography, no trace of the pelvic fins and the basipterygia were observed. The specimen of A. latiscutatus showed severe deformation of the finrays of the dorsal, pectoral and ventral fins. The spines of the pectoral and dorsal fins were also deformed. Pollution from Port Harcourt appears to be causing the skeletal deformities described.

Evaluation of the Microbiology and Some Physicochemical Properties of Bonny River, Rivers State, Nigeria

Evaluation of the Microbiology and Some Physicochemical Properties of Bonny River, Rivers State, Nigeria

HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS IN BOBO CROAKER (Pseudotolithus elongatus) FROM THE BONNY RIVER, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

The sudden death of thousands of Pseudotolithus elongatus in the first quarter of the year 2020 was an indication of elevated effluent contamination. The study was aimed at evaluating the human health risk of human exposure Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH)s to P. elongatus exposed to contaminants in Bonny River. Thirty-six P. elongatus and eighteen controls were sampled from the Bonny River in two seasons, (Wet season and Dry season) and analyzed for PAHs using Gas Chromatography - Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID). Risk assessment of PAHs for the Dietary Daily Intake (DDI), carcinogenic potencies[(B(A)Pteq)], PAH4 index, Carcinogenic toxic equivalents (TEQ) and Excess Cancer Risk Index (ECR) was evaluated. DDI of PAHs indicates 1.4E-03 in Chrysene and Indeno (1,2,3) pyrene for wet season, and 1.1E-03 during the dry season. PAH4 revealed 0.065mg/kg in wet season and 0.23 mg/kg in dry season which are significantly above EU standard of 0.03mg/kg. B(A)Pteq in Dibenzo (a,h)anthracene (6.2E-02 and 0.22) were also higher than the EU standard. TEQs values were 0.23 mg/kg and 6.5E-02 were above the SV of 5.55E-03mg/kg which indicates potential toxicity. Result of the present studies indicates that there could be high potential PAHs human health risk associated with the consumption of Bobo Croaker (Pseudotolithus elongatus) from Bonny River.

NVESTIGATION OF SALINE WATER INTRUSION IN SELECTED COASTAL AREA OF RIVERS STATE, SOUTH-SOUTH NIGERIA

The study was aimed to investigate the intrusion of saline water in some selected areas of Rivers State Nigeria. The objectives of the present study were summarized by the use of electrical resistivity signatures of the area’s subsurface to study the occurrence of Saltwater-freshwater interface, determining the depth and thickness of different subsurface layers for groundwater exploitation and delineate saline-water intruded sands in the study area using the borehole geophysical logging tool. The study scoped at producing geologic maps of the study area to gather information concerning the geomorphologic features, application of the electrical resistivity method (VES) to obtain necessary data to investigate the occurrence of seawater intrusion by determining the resistivity, depth and thickness of the various lithologic layers and delineating saline-water intruded sands in the study area by exploring the potential of borehole geophysical logging tool. A total of 11 geoelectric (VES) surveys and four (4) downhole logging was carried out in selected locations within the River State Metropolis to investigate the saline water intrusion in the area. The obtained results reveal that from the Electrical resistivity sounding, the predominant lithologies in the area includes clay, clayey sand, coarse sand, consolidated sand, gravelly sand, consolidated gravel sand, gravelly sand, silty sand, freshwater bearing sand and saltwater bearing sand. Geoelectric layers identified across the area ranged from 3 to 6 layers. Resistivity ranged from 29.60 to 364058.00 Ohm.m for lithologic units, 113 to 181 Ohm.m for freshwater sands and 0.11 to 28.50 Ohm.m for saline water sands. Resistivity field type curves recognized included; H, QQ, AA, KHA, QH, HKH, QQHK, A, HK, KHK and KQH depicting the heterogenous nature of soils in the area. Six of eleven VES points encountered salt water at varying depths and include; Ogonokom, Eagle Island, Okirika, Assarama, Ikuru and Opobo sounding points. Thickness of the saline sandy layers ranged 3.10 m to 71.48 m. Downhole logging (SP and Resistivity) conducted in four coastal communities of the study area revealed four lithologic units which includes clay, clayey sand, coarse sand and saline water bearing sand. Saline zones were identified as having negative SP values and low resistivities. Clay were mapped as areas having positive SP values and low resistivities. The thickness of the saline zones ranged from 16 to 74 m. The largest saline layer thickness was obtained at Bonny. This study has shown that boreholes in Bille and Bonny communities exceeding depths of 15 m are likely to encounter salt water. The saltwater intrusion is predominantly concentrated around the southern part of the study area around Bonny and Opobo communities. The presence of Opobo River, Bonny River and a suite of creeks which are open to the Atlantic Ocean area responsible for the salt intrusion into these coastal boreholes. The outcome of the study yielded the importance that boreholes in Bonny, Opobo and Bille communities that has encountered saline water should be prevented from further use until treatment for salt water intrusions are conducted and water exploitation plan should be developed by the government and enforced to be utilized by residents in Buguma, Degema, Abonnema and NLNG to prevent saline intrusion because these communities are the most vulnerable to saline intrusion from over-exploitation of freshwater in the area.

Heavy Metals and Physicochemical Parameters Evaluation in the Upper Reaches of Bonny River, Niger Delta, Nigeria

The objectives of the study were to determine distribution of heavy metal contamination in water, sediments and biota (Callinectes amniciola) of the upper reaches of the Bonny Estuary and to determine the impact on physicochemical characteristics of the water body. Sampled was from January to June 2020. The physicochemical parameters of the water varied slightly across the months but were within FEPA/WHO (2003) acceptable limits. Furthermore; the study compared the seasonal variations and determination of Bio-accumulation Factor (BF) of C. amnicola with respect to sediment. The study site is a tidal creek that drains into the main Bonny River channel within Niger Delta, Nigeria. The sampled locations/stations include Trans-Amadi slaughter in Azuabie {N4°81'49.9 and E7°04'63.4}, Okpoka Creek in Abuloma {N4°78'02.43 and E7°06'66.12} and Okirika Jetty {N4°73'70.04 and E7°09'56.93}. Samples of surface water, sediments and swimming crabs were collected from three different stations which were at least 1000 meters apart. The results of this study show that concentrations of the heavy metals (Fe and Zn) were both higher in the three media than the approved limits prescribed by the local regulatory authority. Although Cu was relatively within acceptable limit in the three media. There is therefore the need to control the anthropogenic activities within or around the river. This will help to prevent effluent and solid waste discharges that lead to increase in the concentration of heavy metals in the aquatic environment. Routine monitoring should be encouraged to identify the major sources of heavy metals introduction into the river and their impacts on the aquatic resources.