Trace Elements Accumulationin the Organs of Clarias Gariepinus Sold in Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria

Abstract

The concentration of trace metals were determined in the organs of Clariasgariepinussold withinMakurdi Metropolitan area using atomic absorption spectrophotometer for two seasons. The trend of the accumulation of heavy metals in the organ of the fish was gills> liver > kidney> bone> skin during the rainy season while during the dry season it was kidney > skin>liver>gills> bone of the fish. There was no significant difference in the examined trace elements in the different organs of the fish during dry season (P>0.05). All the same during the rainy season there was a significant difference in the bio accumulation of trace metals in the different organs of the fish (P<0.05). The trace elements in the water are transferred to the organs of the fish (Clariasgariepinus) which have an implication for public health due to the fact the fish is a rich source of protein for humans and is widely consumed within this area. There is clear evidence that the fish that is majorly obtained from River Benue within Makurdi is polluted with trace elements and this a severe consequence and implication for public health. This is because the fish is consumed by humansand the trace metals may accumulate into their organs and may result to illness due to the toxicity of the elements.

Keywords: Trace elements,  Bio accumulation, ClariasgariepinusMakurdi