Tissue Distribution and Bioavailability of Trace Elements in Ergeria Radiata from the Upper Reaches of the Nun River, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

Fresh samples of the clam Ergeria radiata were collected at six stations spanning 50 km along the upper reaches of the Nun River, Niger Delta, Nigeria. The animals were dissected into the foot, gills, viscera and shell and digested separately according to standard methods.  Selected trace elements (PZn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni) were analysed in each category to delineate the portioning of the elements in the organism.