Pages: (1-8 )
Abstract
The levels of some heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cr and Mn) in the edible muscle tissues of Bagridae (Chrysicthys nigroditatus) from the north east axis of Lagos Lagoon Complex were studied. Samples were collected from the designated stations in the Lagoon from February to June, 2009 and analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The mean concentration of metals accumulated in C. nigroditatus varied as follows: Fe 26.3-57.5μg/g, Cu 3.89-12.76 μg/g, Pb 0.563-4.03 μg/g, Cd 0-4.38 μg/g, Zn 6.38-18.03 μg/g, Cr 0.138-2.90 μg/g and Mn 0.563-2.63 μg/g. The concentrations of the heavy metals in the muscle tissue of the fish decreased in the following order Fe>Zn> Cu> Pb>Mn>Cr>Cd. The results indicated that the concentrations of these heavy metals fall within their respective acceptable permissible limits recommended by the FAO/WHO. Therefore, the consumption of this fish species may not pose any threat to human health. However periodic monitoring of these metals in the fish is highly essential to public health.
Keywords: Heavy metal; Chrysicthys nigroditatus; Fish; Muscle tissue; Lagos; Lagoon,