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Impact of refinery effluent on the physic-chemical properties of a water body in the Niger Delta
Abstract
The physicochemical qualities of a refinery effluent and water and sediment of an effluent receiving water body were investigated. The treated refinery effluent contained very high concentrations of phenol (11.06 mg/l), oil and grease (7.52 mg/l), ammonia (8.52 mg/l), COD (91.76 mg/l), TDS (390.6 mg/l) and phosphate (6.2 mg/l), but low in sulphide, nickel, lead, copper and chromium, which were undetectable. High concentrations of phenol (5.13-16.38 mg/l), oil and grease (10.56-15.23 mg/l), and ammonia (4.31-13.17 mg/l) were observed in water and sediment samples respectively, at the point of effluent impact. A high concentration of sulphide (3.74 mg/l) was accumulated in the sediment at the point of impact of the refinery effluent, though it was undetectable in the effluent itself or water sample. The concentrations of these parameters as well as of phosphate, nitrate, zinc and COD declined progressively with distance from the point of impact but were still significantly higher than in control water and sediment in samples 1.5 km downstream from the point of impact. Higher concentrations of the pollutants were recorded in the dry season than rainy season except for phosphate and nitrate, which showed the reverse trend. Nickel, lead, copper, chromium and cyanide were neither detected in the effluent nor impacted water body. Keywords. contaminant concentrations, sediment accumulation, seasonal changes
... The different types of pollutants which emanate from oil refineries have been known for years to have effects on the biological productivities of the ecosystem into which they are discharged. Chemical analysis of organic pollutants from Nigerian refineries [1], [2], [3] have identified 15 petroleum based hydrocarbons mostly phenols which are toxic to organisms. Concentrations of dissolved petroleum hydrocarbons have been found to be elevated in water bodies near refineries in the Niger Delta region [1], which supports the inference that little or no waste water treatment is performed [4]. ...
... Chemical analysis of organic pollutants from Nigerian refineries [1], [2], [3] have identified 15 petroleum based hydrocarbons mostly phenols which are toxic to organisms. Concentrations of dissolved petroleum hydrocarbons have been found to be elevated in water bodies near refineries in the Niger Delta region [1], which supports the inference that little or no waste water treatment is performed [4]. With acknowledged influence of some of these pollutants on other factors, it is obvious that there is a possibility of chemical interactions between these parameters which may affect the microbial population and diversity. ...
... The differences in microbial load of the effluents reported here may be attributed to difference in temperature, pH, phenol content, ammonia, oil and grease, cyanide etc. [1]. The nutrient content of the different waste water samples measured as BOD, phosphate and nitrate may also be a contributing factor in the recorded microbial population. ...
... Pollution alters the physico-chemical properties of water bodies. Water pollution has been identified as one of the areas of major concern to environmentalists Yadav and Kumar (2011) and is an important global environmental challenge Mathuthu et al. (1997) Aremu et al. (2014) Gbarakoro et al. (2020) One major problem in the world today is the discharge of industrial effluents directly or indirectly into aquatic environment without adequate treatment Aremu et al. (2014) and this is being experienced worldwide irrespective of countries Gbarakoro et al. (2020) In Nigeria, most of the water systems serve as receptacles or reservoirs for the effluents expelled from industries Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) Water quality is related to water use and to the state of economic development Walakiri and Okot-Okumu (2011) The poor water quality has negatively impacted the ecosystem balance, causing pollution of both ground and surface water resources Gebreyohannes et al. (2015) Heavy metal is an element having a somewhat high density relative to water Kinuthia et al. (2020) Even though, the word "heavy metal" is a broad name used for metals and metalloids linked with the term's contamination and toxicity Duffus (2002) they have been recently described as metals that occur in nature with atomic number greater than 20 and an elemental density greater than 5g/cm3 Ali and Khan (2018). Heavy metals are environmental pollutants found mostly in waters and 23 biota owing to natural or anthropogenic sources El-Bouraie et al. (2010). ...
... The high values may be due to discharge of effluent into the stream. The EC in all the samples except control was noticeably higher than the WHO tolerable limit and the values recorded by Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) Sorsa et al. (2015) and Gbarakoro et al. (2020). ...
... A total dissolved solid is an indication of the amount of inorganic substance dissolved in water. The values ranged between 2780 mg/L -3020 mg/L, far above the values obtained by Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) Siyanbola et al. (2011) and Sorsa et al. (2015) who worked on industrial effluents. Any water which contains values greater than 1200 Mg/L of the total dissolved solids is not potable and more than 500mg/L of TDS causes cancer Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) The values of TDS in samples A, B, and C were above WHO maximum allowable limit and values reported by Rout et al. (2003) The value of total suspended solid (TSS) of Aleto stream ranged from 55-100 mg/l in samples A, B and C. ...
Aim: The physico-chemical properties and heavy metal concentrations of Aleto stream were investigated to determine its status.Research Design: Samples were collected randomly from four points; upstream, outfall, downstream of Aleto stream with Agbonchia stream serving as control. Methodology: The physico-chemical parameters: temperature, pH, EC, turbidity, TSS, TDS, total hardness, calcium hardness, alkalinity, nitrate, phosphate, chloride, COD, BOD, DO, color, odor and taste were determined using standard methods. Heavy metal levels were determined using AAS.Results: The physico-chemical characteristics revealed range values of EC (5400-5600 µs/cm), turbidity (39-90NTU), TDS (2780-3020 mg/L), Total Hardness (550-600 mg/L), calcium hardness (500-550 mg/L), chloride (1798-2043 mg/L), COD (50-115 mg/L), BOD (12-23 mg/L) and DO (12-15 mg/L) were above WHO permissible limits for upstream, outfall and downstream while alkalinity, nitrate, phosphate, and temperature ranges of 22-23 mg/L, 3.7-4.7 mg/L, 0.6 -1.9 mg/L and 26-26.3OC respectively were within maximum allowable limit of WHO. The pH was slightly alkaline for Aleto Stream. Color and taste for the water samples were above recommended limits. The heavy metal levels were Fe: 0.488, 0.499, 0.499 and 0.142; Zn: 0.094, 0.094, 0.095 and 0.061; Cd: 0.055, 0.053, 0.051 and 0.022; Pd: 0.358, 0.386, 0.419 and 0.110; Cr: 0.131, 0.141, 0.152 and 0.018; As: <0.01, <0.01. <0.01 and <0.01 for downstream, upstream, outfall and control samples respectively. The result suggests that there is significant difference in the mean values of the parameters in the water sources considered. Conclusion: Thus, regular surveillance should be carried out on the stream to detect any alteration in the water quality in order to avert any outbreak of health disorders.
... The impact of refinery activities on the environment constitutes one of the interesting topics of the modern environmental debate (Bevilacqua and Braglia, 2002;Otokunefor &Obiukwu, 2005 andMirkouei, et al., 2016). The environmental factors that affect the performance of NNPC refineries have both social and cultural ramifications. ...
... The impact of refinery activities on the environment constitutes one of the interesting topics of the modern environmental debate (Bevilacqua and Braglia, 2002;Otokunefor &Obiukwu, 2005 andMirkouei, et al., 2016). The environmental factors that affect the performance of NNPC refineries have both social and cultural ramifications. ...
... Although these standards have been hardly experienced across refineries in Africa due to their poor performance, local authorities still require certain compliance to emission standards (Otokunefor and Obiukwu, 2005). In addition, refineries can face large financial loses through legal suits brought by host communities over claims for compensation on damages to the environment (Watts, 2006). ...
Purpose – This thesis aims to understand how the significant factors that lead to performance challenges across Nigeria’s state-owned refineries operationalise to drive their sub-optimal performance. As such, unlike previous studies, it sought to develop a decision-support model to inform policy intervention measures to address the refining problems from a holistic viewpoint.
Design/methodology/approach - Using a literature search, the study identified several challenging factors, which it initially categorised within a political, economic, social, technical, environmental, and legal (PESTEL) framework. A mixed methods approach incorporating the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) validated through interviews was applied using a multi-case study research strategy to prioritise and rank the factors according to their significance. These factors were used to develop a causal loop model based on systems thinking to identify potential leverage points that informed a policy intervention framework capable of addressing the performance challenges of the refineries.
Findings - The result of the study showed that the most significant factors limiting the performance of the refineries lie within the political, economic, social, and technical (PEST) issues. The leverage points for fixing these issues rests mainly within the political, social, and technical factors. As such, the adoption of management efficiency was proposed to address the political issues through full deregulation and the introduction of private sector partnership with the refineries. Secondly, stakeholder satisfaction through a coherent and successful implementation of the recently passed Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was proposed as a social approach to quell communal agitations and safeguard oil infrastructure located within the Niger Delta areas. Lastly, the adoption of maintenance best practices through a change in the operating philosophy of the refineries was proposed as a technical approach to address recurring equipment breakdowns associated with poor maintenance culture within the organisation.
Practical implications - The study argued that the implementation of this framework will lead to marginal incremental gains over time that will close the performance gaps across the refineries.
Originality/value - The causal loop model developed in this study alongside the policy intervention framework provides a new approach for understanding and resolving the performance implications arising from the interdependencies of the causal factors.
... The BOD of the wastewater samples varied significantly across the eight locations. Otokunefor and Obiukwu [22] also reported a high BOD for treated refinery effluent discharged into the Bonny River. Similarly, Siyanbola et al. [23] reported a BOD range 340-560 mg/l in effluents collected from industries in Ikeja, Lagos State. ...
... ± 2.10 mg/l for effluents discharged into the New Calabar River, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Otokunefor and Obiukwu [22] similarly reported a lower COD for treated refinery effluents discharged into the Bonny River estuary. Siyanbola et al. [23] reported a COD values ranging from 615-1254.50 ...
... The TDS values varied significantly across locations. The TDS values in this study are about ten folds higher than the TDS value of 209.23 mg/l reported by Otokunefor and Obiukwu [22] and about a hundred folds higher than 6.53 ± 0.56-8.89 ± 0.98 mg/l reported by Edori and Nna [24]. ...
The incidence of chemical stressors in industrial waste effluents has culminated in the re-engineering the genetic and metabolic characteristic of resident microbiota. Microbial adaptability enables them to tolerate these stressors however, propelling the phenomena of acquisition of heavy metal resistance which may also incite resistance to antibiotics. Waste water from industrial establishments may travel from site into surrounding communities via canals and waterways thus, disseminating these stressors as well as resistance in the environment. This study seeks to investigate the physicochemical and heavy metal composition of industrial effluent and its tolerance in resilient bacteria from the study area. Physiochemical analyses revealed pH level which ranged between (5.8-10.87), BOD (6.612-16.01 mg/l), TDS (937.226-2173.49 mg/l), Sulphates (658.72- 1342.28 mg/l), Nitrates (11.46-70.16 mg/l), Phosphate (3.03-8.43 mg/l) exceeded the NESRA limits; Cu (0.024-4.521 mg/l) Cd (0.002-6.41 mg/l), Pb (0.001-8.151mg/l), Zn (0.511-6.092 mg/l). All the isolates showed marked tolerance to Cu, Cr, Pb, Cd and Zn at concentrations between 200 and 500µg/ml, except Alkanindiges sp. 5-0-9 and Bacillus altitudinis which were not susceptible to all the heavy metals at all concentrations. This study revealed the incidence of heavy metal resistance among bacterial isolates from industrial wastewater, the incidence of which could give rise to co-occurrence with antibiotic resistance thus, aggravating a public health concern.
... Water pollution due to discharge of untreated industrial effluents into water bodies are a major problem in the global context [3] and is being experienced by both developing and developed countries of the world. Most of the water bodies in the world especially developing countries like Nigeria are the endpoints of effluents discharged from industries [4]. In recent years, an increase in industrialization and urbanization in developing countries including Nigeria has gradually led to the generation of large amount of wastewater from domestic, commercial, industrial and other sources [5]. ...
... Increase in crude oil exploration, refining and activities of other industrial establishments in the Niger Delta of Nigeria have resulted in the widescale contamination of most of its creeks, swamps and rivers with hydrocarbon and dispersant products [7]. Wastewaters released by petrochemical industries are characterized by the presence of large quantities of petroleum products, polycyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, metal derivatives, surface-active substances, sulphides, naphthylenic acid and other chemicals [8,4]. Considering the water bodies in industrial areas that receive untreated effluents from industries in semi-urban areas, the water quality of these rivers or streams has been tremendously affected as a result of the industrial activities. ...
... Considering the water bodies in industrial areas that receive untreated effluents from industries in semi-urban areas, the water quality of these rivers or streams has been tremendously affected as a result of the industrial activities. Due to the ineffectiveness of the purification system, wastewater may become seriously dangerous, leading to the accumulation of toxic products in the receiving water bodies with potentially serious consequences on the ecological communities [4]. It will also cause changes in the nutrient concentrations of water which may lead to harmful effects on humans and aquatic life. ...
Aim: This research work aimed to determine the impact of industrial effluent discharge on the physicochemical properties of Aleto Stream, Eleme and Rivers State. Study Design: Random sampling technique was applied in this study. The study area was divided into three sites; upstream, downstream all of Aleto Stream and Agbonchia Stream which serves for the control experiment. Water samples for eleven physical and six chemical parameters were collected in a Completely Randomized Design. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out on Aleto and Agbonchia streams at Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria from 2017 to 2018. Methodology: Two samples were collected; one sample at the Aleto stream where the industrial effluent is being channelled into the stream and the other sample was collected from Agbonchia stream, which was used as a control. In the Aleto Stream, sampling was made at two points; point A (upstream) point B (downstream) and each of these points had their Physico-chemical properties tested while only one sample was collected from the Agbonchia Stream. Physico-chemical properties were analyzed in the samples using pH meter for pH, Turbidity meter for turbidity, Conductivity meter for electrical conductivity, phosphate by colourimetric method, total dissolved solids (TDS) and total suspended solids (TSS) by gravimetric method, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) by standard method, chloride, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), calcium hardness, total hardness by titrimetric method, colour, odour and taste by sensory method. Results: Results obtained on the Physico-chemical properties had varying concentrations of Temperature, Total hardness, Chloride, Alkalinity, DO and Phosphate that were within world health organization (24) and Federal Ministry of Environment (1991) permissible limits on both upstream and downstream with values ranging from 29.0-23.7oC, 360-125 mg/l, 120-100 mg/l, 36-30 mg/l, 4.9-4.4 mg/l, 1.92-1.2 mg/l respectively while Electrical conductivity, Turbidity, TSS, TDS, Calcium hardness, COD, BOD, Colour, Taste and Odour were above permissible limits on both upstream and downstream with values ranging from 1660-1700 mg/l, 83-112NTU, 82-80 mg/l, 910-914 mg/l, 1590-1900 mg/l, 100-165 mg/l, 4.36-3.88 mg/l respectively. The pH values ranged from 9.0-6.3 mg/l showing a result on the upstream to be alkaline while the downstream was slightly acidic. The increase in the above parameters above their permissible limits is as a result of the impact of industrial effluent discharges drained into the stream. This indicates that the stream is unfit for both human and aquatic inmates. Conclusion: Therefore, proper management of this effluent should be ensured and an acute test with lethal concentration (LC50) as the endpoint is recommended to determine the degree of toxicity of the effluent waste.
... Ten sediment cores were collected for physicochemical analyses across the study stations. The samples were preserved where applicable and analysed in the laboratory according the methods [23,24,25]. Hydrogen Ion Concentration (pH) was determined in-situ using the pH-Conductivity meter (Hach pH-meter, sense ion 2 model). ...
... Electrical Conductivity (EC) was equally measured in-situ using the pH-Conductivity meter as above. Nitrate and Sulphate were analysed in the laboratory using the methods [23]. Phosphatephosphorus was extracted from the sediment sample using extracting solution of 0.03 M NH 4 F and 0.025 M HCL. ...
Asarama estuary is an inter-tidal system characterised by a number of freshwater influxes, mud flat at low tide and associated with mangrove and nipa ecosystems. The biodiversity of Asarama estuary at Andoni flat in the Niger Delta of Nigeria was surveyed in the wet and dry seasons of 2016/17. Benthic macrofauna samples were collected during the sampling period, including the analyses of sediments for selected parameters. The results for the environmental chemistry showed relatively high concentrations in values for the parameters in sediments which is a normality in most tropical aquatic environments. The sediments pH concentrations were at slightly acidic state (≥ 6) across the stations, likewise a few parameters such as pH, total hydrocarbon content and nutrients, recorded slightly high concentrations during the wet season than the dry season. Biodiversity analyses revealed three groups of benthic macrofauna (Mollusca constituted-69.67%, crustacea-22.95% and Annelida-7.37%). Amongst these groups; crustaceans and molluscans had more abundance in the wet season than the dry season. Species diversity was low for macrobenthos while, indiscriminate harvest of fisheries, unregulated navigations and illegal activities of crude oil products pose major challenge to the biotic communities. Indiscriminate human exploitation of its living resources coupled with transportation activities pose some threats to the estuary sustainability.
... This in addition authenticates the fact that the treatment of effluent in KRPC in January to August 2010 was effective. This finding agrees with those of [10]; [11]; [3] and disagrees with the findings of [12] probably because his work covers only few of the parameter covered in this work. ...
... This validates the fact that the treatment of effluent in KRPC from January to August 2010 was effective for wet season both not effective for dry season, although there might be other resons for the high concentration of the tested parameters in dry season such as high temperature which result to high evaporation in the effluent discharge point since its open and this can result in the high concentration since the water quantity is far less than that of wet season among other things. This study is in tandem with those of [10]; [14] for wet season only. ...
This study assesses the effectiveness of wastewater treatment process of KRPC. The scope of the study involves a quality assessment of pre-disposal treatment of an industrial effluent. Wastewater samples were collected for six months from three sampling points within the study site which comprised of the following; effluent sample before treatment (Sample A), effluent sample after treatment (Sample B) and KRPC effluent discharge point (Sample C). Standard methods of wastewater quality assessment were employed in the analyses of the samples collected. Data generated were converted to means of dry and wet seasons (January, February and March) and (June, July and August) respectively. The mean values were subjected to Paired Sample Student t-test and results were presented in tables. Paired sample t-test for pair 1and 2 for dry and wet seasons revealed a significant difference between A dry season (AD) and B dry season (BD); A wet season (AW) and B wet season (BW). Also, pair 3 and 4 harmoniously, show no significant difference between B dry season (BD) and C dry season (CD); B wet season (BW) and (CW) wet season. Similarly, t-test for Pair 5and 6 (UNEP-BD), expresses no significant differences between B dry season (BD) and UNEP standard; and B wet season (BW) and UNEP standards. Pair 7 and 8, paradoxically confirmed a significant difference between C dry season (CD) and UNEP standards and no significant differences between C wet season (CW) and UNEP standards. The research confirms the efficiency of effluent treatment by the management of KRPC.
... Thus, the water obtained at various station (A-C) along the stream must be treated before it can be set for human consumption. For water potable, the concentration of desirable substance must not exceed the levels set by standard organization [33,34]. ...
... Iron (Fe) concentration ranged between 12.29-39.95mg/L exceeds the National and International Standard permissible limits of 0.03mg/l [34,37]. Excess intake of iron could result in gastrointestinal tract (GIT) disorder. ...
Evaluation of physicochemical parameters and heavy metal levels in surface water of the Miniokoro stream, Port Harcourt, Nigeria were investigated to determine its potability and pollution status at various stations along the stream. The physicochemical parameters analyzed in the water samples were: pH, Temperature, Salinity, Electrical conductivity, TDS, DO, BOD, Alkalinity, Chloride, NH4+, NO3-, PO43-, SO42- while heavy metals such as Nickel, lead, Iron, Zinc and Chromium were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results from the research showed an average concentration level of the physicochemical parameters such as pH (5.79-7.01), EC (136.43 - 960.67µS/cm), TDS (90.17 - 1517.67) and the spatial distribution of heavy metals: zinc (0.07 - 1.09mg/l), chromium (0.03 - 0.09mg/l), nickel (0.07 - 0.08mg/l) and iron (12.29 - 39.95mg/l). Water samples from various stations depicts the varying level of pollution along the stream when compared with national and international permissible limit. Thus, it suggests that the government should develop and implement an effective waste management plans due to environmental and other anthropogenic impacts on the stream.
... The highest pH value was of 8.1 was recorded at the brewery effluent discharge point in Ajali. This is lower than the values obtained by Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) and Ekhaise and Anyasi (2005) who reported an alkaline pH range of 8.3 to 8.5 in river water in Niger Delta, South-eastern Nigeria and 8.8 to 9.1 in Ikpoba River, Nigeria, respectively. Similar studies also revealed higher pH values in river water in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria (Egwuonwu et al. 2012). ...
... The alkalinity values were highest (86.00 mg/L) around the brewery effluent outfall, though all the recorded values were all below the WHO permissible limits. High concentration of alkalinity in surface waters has been attributed to the use of detergents for washing (Otokunefor and Obiukwu 2005). Very high concentration of alkalinity is not good for domestic and industrial purposes. ...
The physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses of four rivers namely: Ajali, Obinna, Karawa and Adada in Ezeagu and Uzo-uwani Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Enugu State, South-eastern Nigeria, were carried out to evaluate their suitability for consumption. Water samples from Ajali River were taken from a point where the river receives brewery effluents and other two points that were impacted by non-point pollution sources. A total of 54 water samples were collected during the dry season, early rainy season and rainy season proper for 2 years. For each trip, nine samples were collected from three sampling points in Ajali and two each in Adada, Obinna and Karawa. The water quality index (WQI) was calculated using the arithmetic index method. Significant seasonal and spatial variations (p < 0.05) were evident for sulphate, phosphate, sodium, magnesium, pH, total alkalinity, nitrate and total dissolved solids. Mean values of WQI were 71.75 ± 16.07 57.26 ± 5.39, 60.47 ± 13.12, and 66.75 ± 15.30 for Adada, Obinna, Karawa and Ajali, respectively.
... Because of the harmful effects of public, hospital, and industrial wastewater on soil, air, water, as well as agricultural product, wastewater treatments and the proper sludge disposal are needed for environmental protection (Dushyanth et al., 2019). Untreated discharge of industrial effluents are responsible for serious water (Otokunefor and Obiukwu, 2005) and soil pollution (Konwar and Jha, 2019), which is considered as one of the major factors responsible for low productivity of crops. Similar findings were revealed on the effect of various industrial effluents on different crops (Cabral et al., 2010). ...
... The higher amount of EC could be attributed to high number of dissolved solids in ionized form as cations and anions. The EC in all the samples was noticeably higher than the WHO permissible limit and in line with the values recorded by Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005). ...
This study evaluates the effect of trace metals and nutrient loads on the inhabitants of Aleto using Aleto rivers in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria. Aleto River serves as the point of industrial effluent discharge while Agbonchia River was used as the control point. Physico-chemical properties were analyzed in the samples such as pH, phosphate, sulphate, nitrate, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chloride and dissolved oxygen (DO). The trace metal components were analyzed using a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS). The physicochemical characteristics revealed range value of chloride, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, and dissolved oxygen were above World Health Organization permissible limits for upstream and downstream points, while temperature, electrical conductivity, phosphate, sulphate, and nitrate were within the maximum allowable limit of World Health Organization. The result shows the presence of all the heavy metals (lead, manganese and cadmium) in the river except nickel. The pH values ranged from 6.30-9.00 showing a result on the upstream to be alkaline while the downstream to be slightly acidic. This indicates that the river is unfit for both human and aquatic species thereby affecting the socio-cultural heritage of the people within the locality. The findings highlight the urgent need for government regulations to ensure clean water and sanitation in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 6.
... The presence of pollutants in natural waters alters the quality of water bodies and often poses serious threats to aquatic life. Various studies have shown positive correlation between pollutions from petrochemical and refinery effluents and the health of aquatic organisms, Otokunefor and Obiukwu [4]. Previous observations suggested a correlation between contaminants of water and sediments with aromatic hydrocarbons from refinery effluents and compromised fish health Kuehn et al. [5]. ...
Effluents from Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) depot in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria were evaluated for some physicochemical parameters and hydrocarbon content. The physicochemical parameters of effluents were all below Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv) permissible limits except for temperature which was +0.2°C above the standard for temperature of 30.0°C, THC value for the effluent was 0.8mg/l. It was observed that the physicochemical parameters of the depot’s effluent were below FMEnv’s standards which make it safe for discharge. Environmental Regulatory Agencies should therefore ensure compliance from firms, industries, plants and oil depots (oil terminals) which generate effluents by frequent monitoring of their activities.
... Industrial wastewaters range from high biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) from biodegradable wastes such as those from human sewage, pulp and paper industries, chemical industry, and slaughter houses. Others include those from plating shops and textiles, which may be toxic and require on-site physiochemical pre-treatment before discharge into the municipal sewage system [21,22]. Different studies have shown that the release of untreated effluents has the potential to negatively impact aquatic organisms by decreasing pH to acid level, increasing conductivity, temperature turbidity, and total solids in such an environment, leading to a decrease in dissolved oxygen with microbial bloom from rich nutrients (nitro-groups, sulfur-groups, and phosphors) [13,[23][24][25]. ...
Surface water monitoring is essential, especially when the water is normally used for industrial, agricultural, and domestic purposes. The study determined the physicochemical properties of the River Otamiri using the American Public Health Association standard methods for water analysis. In this study, river water samples were collected five times during the dry season from four sampling points (WSP-1, WSP-2, WSP-3 and WSP-4) along the watercourse of the river in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. The levels of the selected physicochemical parameters were compared with the National Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) guidelines. The findings showed that the pH (4.99±0.11-6.30±0.08), dissolved oxygen (4.16±0.01-6.45±0.03), total hardness (17.10±1.78-27.80±2.54), chloride (68.30±0.58-91.90±0.64), and sulphate (39.55±3.32-51.21±2.11) were below the acceptable limit of the National Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). However, electrical conductivity (1116±29.75-1419±28.54), turbidity (18.90±2.81-31.70±8.13) and nitrate (45.50±3.06-69.90±2.11, except in water sample point-4) were above the recommended limit according to the NSDWQ guideline, while temperature levels (26.90±0.04-28.40±0.02) were within the acceptable limit. The study concludes that the River Otamiri is contaminated. It is therefore advisable to purify water from the river before use for domestic and industrial purposes.
... These are indication of the presence of high organic matter or materials in the water body. The low level of DO recorded could cause the decomposition of organic matter thereby increasing the temperature of the river (Otukunefor and Biukwu, 2005). The high BOD which indicates presence of biodegradable organic substances could be related to the effluents high in degradable organic matter from the refinery, soap, aluminum and plastic plants and unregulated domestic dumpsites along the river course. ...
Oil bean pod (OBP) is a biomass that is haphazardly abandoned in eastern region of Nigeria and thus contributes to a lot of pollution. In this study, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was extracted from oil bean pods using acid hydrolysis,
and numerous characterizations were carried out utilising various sophisticated techniques. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis has indicated the removal of lignin and hemicellulose from MCC extracted from oil bean
pods. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed a rough surface and minor agglomeration of the MCC. Furthermore, the isolated MCC has slightly higher inorganic minerals than the raw oil bean pod on the basis of SEM�ADS and the ash content. The BET analysis reveals a better specific surface area, pore volume, and average pore diameter or size of the isolated cellulose, which could serve as a better adsorbent than the raw OBP. As a result of the increased surface area and high percentage of MCC in OBP, it can be used in environmental remediation of heavy metals. The bulk density of MCC was recorded at 0.447, which is slightly above the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) specification of 0.32, and the tapped density was recorded at 0.532. The flow ability of MCC powder determines its
suitability as a direct compression binder. Thus, the isolated MCC might be used as a reinforcing element for the production of green composites, and it can also be utilized as a starting material for the production of plastic polymers.
... The physico-chemical properties of river water and their impacts have been studied by many researchers. Rosli [5], and Weldemariam (2013) [6] are only a few of the researchers who have looked into the physicochemical properties of river water and their impacts. According to Korai et al. (2008) [7] and Murugan et al. (2012) [8,] the physico-chemical properties of river water affect fish diversity. ...
For all living things, water is one of the most important sources. Despite being a renewable resource, clean water scarcity is a major problem in many regions of the world. We require water for a variety of things, including food production, personal hygiene, electrical generation, fire control, and most importantly, survival. Nine sampling stations were chosen at various locations along the Mahanadi and its tributary, the Katha Jodi River, in the Cuttack area (S1-S9). To collect a tiny amount of water from the water source for water analysis and to look at the physico-chemical components that are present in the water, sampling is done. Our study sites' dissolved oxygen concentrations range from 3.9 to 5.8 mg/lit, and the water samples from all of the sites are only mildly alkaline. All study sites have alkalinities below 150 mg/lit, ranging from 129 mg/lit to 162 mg/lit. All of the study sites' water conductivities are within the typical range of river water, or 200 to 1000 mhos/cm. All of the study locations, with the exception of our study sites 1 and 2, have high nitrate levels of greater than 100 mg/lit. Our study sites had phosphate concentrations between 0.8 and 2.0 mg/lit, and a river shouldn't have more phosphates than 0.1 mg/L. Over these limits, phosphorus can be quite hazardous.
... The physico-chemical properties of river water and their impacts have been studied by many researchers. Rosli [5], and Weldemariam (2013) [6] are only a few of the researchers who have looked into the physicochemical properties of river water and their impacts. According to Korai et al. (2008) [7] and Murugan et al. (2012) [8,] the physico-chemical properties of river water affect fish diversity. ...
For all living things, water is one of the most important sources. Despite being a renewable resource, clean water scarcity is a major problem in many regions of the world. We require water for a variety of things, including food production, personal hygiene, electrical generation, fire control, and most importantly, survival. Nine sampling stations were chosen at various locations along the Mahanadi and its tributary, the Katha Jodi River, in the Cuttack area (S1-S9). To collect a tiny amount of water from the water source for water analysis and to look at the physico-chemical components that are present in the water, sampling is done. Our study sites' dissolved oxygen concentrations range from 3.9 to 5.8 mg/lit, and the water samples from all of the sites are only mildly alkaline. All study sites have alkalinities below 150 mg/lit, ranging from 129 mg/lit to 162 mg/lit. All of the study sites' water conductivities are within the typical range of river water, or 200 to 1000 mhos/cm. All of the study locations, with the exception of our study sites 1 and 2, have high nitrate levels of greater than 100 mg/lit. Our study sites had phosphate concentrations between 0.8 and 2.0 mg/lit, and a river shouldn't have more phosphates than 0.1 mg/L. Over these limits, phosphorus can be quite hazardous.
... Neurological cells and immune systems will also be affected and possibly damaged (ATSDR 1998;USEPA 1988;WHO 1988). Chromium must be as much as possible be removed from drinking water and waters for other domestic purposes because they are potential carcinogenic (Otukune and Biukwu 2005;Edet and Okereke 2001). ...
Non-roof harvested rainwater was studied in Enugu industrial layouts of Emene and Iva Valley to determine the quality of the water. The determination was based on physicochemical parameters and concentration of 7 heavy metals, namely copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). The physicochemical parameters of the rainwater: pH, colour, turbidity, total dissolved solids, conductivity were determined using Hanna water quality checker, and the anions nitrate, sulphate, chloride and phosphate were analysed in accordance to standard methods. The concentrations of Cu, Cr, Ni, Mn, Zn, Pb and Cd were determined using FS240 Agilent Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The mean values (mg/l) of the metals: Cu, Cr, Ni, Mn, Zn, Pb and Cd in Emene sample are as follows: 0.12 ± 0.01, 0.10 ± 0.02, 0.37 ± 0.02, 0.03 ± 0.01, 0.15 ± 0.01, 0.58 ± 0.11 and 0.17 ± 0.07, while Iva Valley sample recorded 0.08 ± 0.01, 0.04 ± 0.01, 0.82 ± 0.06, 0.09 ± 0.02, 0.26 ± 0.01, 0.48 ± 0.04 and 0.31 ± 0.08, respectively. Some of these values are within or above the standard limit of World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigeria Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). It is important to note that these metals are toxic, persistence and have the potential to bioaccumulate. Therefore, non-roof harvested rainwater is not ready to consume water without some form of treatment. Monitoring, treatment and awareness on the harvesting and use of rainwater should be emphasized.
... Low levels were determined in Ovwian while significant levels were recorded in DSC and Orhuwhorun in the month of April and May. This must be totally removed from water because they are carcinogenic, long exposure may cause kidney, liver and nerve tissue damage [15,16]. The levels of cadmium, and mercury (0.0123 -2.0796 mg/kg and 0.0016 -0.0049 mg/kg, respectively) were quite low in the sampled location. ...
Study on the heavy metals and water quality assessment was carried out in selected wells dug in Udu community of Delta state which comprise three locations; Delta Steel town, Orhuwhorun and Ovwian to determine the potability of the water. The levels of heavy metals such as Chromium, Mercury, Cadmium, Lead, Zinc, and Iron were assessed in water and sediment respectively. Two hand-dug wells per location were sampled monthly for a period of ten (10) months from March to December. Analytical result obtained indicated that the concentrations of the heavy metals in water samples were below 0.1mg/l, where the concentrations of Chromium and Mercury were found to be 0.001mg/l; Cadmium, 0.001-0.002mg/l; Lead, 0.001-0.014mg/l; Zinc, 0.015-0.058mg/l and Iron, 0.035-0.132mg/l respectively. However, the concentrations of heavy metals were high in sediment as Chromium concentration was 0.01-0.24mg/kg; Mercury, 0.002-0.005mg/kg; Cadmium, 0.01-2.08mg/kg; Lead, 19.12-29.35mg/kg; Zinc, 11.56-39.77mg/kg; and Iron, 418.64-455.33mg/kg respectively. Although values fell within acceptable limit, however, their ability to bio accumulate in living organism tissues possesses a great risk to human lives if left unchecked.
... The presence of impurities in the pristine aquatic body changes its worth and frequently causes severe pressure on water biota. Numerous works have revealed a positive relationship between contaminations from petroleum wastes on the health of water biotas (Otukunefor and Obiukwu, 2005). Waste comprising lubricant when released into an aquatic ecosystem can result in dissolved oxygen (DO) reduction because of the alteration of carbon-based materials into inorganic complexes, displacement of aquatic organisms through a reduction in crustaceans with no carapace (amphipod) population that is vital in the structure of the food chain and eutrophication . ...
Impurities in any aquatic ecosystem can disrupt physical and chemical properties and balance of the biota. Recent studies have shown the impacts of processed and produced effluents released from crude oil flow stations on terrestrial and aquatic environs, leading to ecosystem deterioration and species displacement. In the Niger Delta region, these activities are common, and the potentials of such acts on the ecosystem need to be studied. The study aims to assess the physical and chemical characteristics of water and sediment in relation to benthic macroinvertebrate communities of water bodies around selected flow stations. This study was conducted at three stations: Otumara, Saghara creeks, and Escravos River, designated as Stations 1, 2, and 3 respectively, in Delta State, Nigeria. The parameters were assessed in water and sediment samples collected monthly between August 2016 to July 2017. In-situ measurements were recorded for water and ambient temperatures, total dissolved solids, conductivity, and pH. Water, while sediment samples were analysed ex-situ in the laboratory. Data were descriptively and inferentially analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 16.0). Faunal diversity indices were computed with Palaeontology statistics (PAST) software version 3.0. Most of the physicochemical parameters in the surface water were not significant (p>0.05) across the studied stations. However, Electrical conductivity concentrations were significantly higher at p<0.01 in stations 2 and 3 than in station 1. The physicochemical parameters of the water analyzed were above the Federal Ministry of Environment of Nigeria 2003 and World Health Organization 2008 set standards. Most of the physicochemical parameters in sediments were significantly at p<0.05 across the studied 3 stations. Electrical conductivity was significantly higher at p<0.01 in stations 2 and 3 respectively. The physicochemical parameters of the sediment analyzed were above WHO standards. A total of 12 macrobenthic invertebrate species [Otumara (4), Saghara (5), and Escravo (3)] were enumerated. The relative percentage composition of Benthic macroinvertebrates obtained in the studied stations, indicated Gastropoda as the dominant group; Tympanatomus radula (20.00%) station 1, (31.90%) station 2 and (15.79%) station 3, Tympanatomus fuscatus (11.21%) station 2 and (10.00%) station 3] and Neritina glabrata (10.00%) station 1. Overall, 83.11% of macrobenthic invertebrate species in the study areas were Gastropoda, followed by the Oligochaeta. Gastropods were dominant probably because they are tolerant to pollution, The study revealed ecosystem impacts from industrial activities, on the community structure of species. Proper treatment of industrial effluents before discharging into the aquatic ecosystem around the flow stations is highly encouraged!
... The surface water bodies provide resources for fishery, transportation, irrigation, recreation and domestic uses. Yet these surface water sources are often contaminated by rampant and uncontrolled discharges of domestic wastes, industrial effluents and anthropogenic activities as indicated by many researchers (Nefor and Obiukwu, 2005;Emoyan et al., 2006;Nnaji et al., 2007;Kan et al., 2007;Adeyemo et al., 2008;Ebiare and Zejiao, 2010;Uzairu et al., 2014). ...
Discharge of untreated wastewater into water bodies often results in
deterioration of the quality of the receiving water. This study assessed
the impact of industrial effluent on the water quality of River Kaduna,
Nigeria. Water samples were collected from 12 different locations along
the river course including its tributaries, and from four selected
industries within Kaduna metropolis discharging effluent into the river.
Sampling was conducted in the dry season for a period of four months.
Samples were analyzed using standard methods and parameters
considered include pH, turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS),
temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical
oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate,
ammonia, phosphate and microbial (total and faecal coliforms). While
some of the parameters analyzed (pH, temperature and nitrate) were
within permissible limits of guideline values set by the Federal
Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) of Nigeria, many of them
(TSS, conductivity, TDS, BOD5, COD, ammonia, phosphate, total and
faecal coliforms) were not. The value of most of the parameters (pH, DO,
temperature, TSS, TDS, BOD5, COD, nitrate, ammonia, phosphate and
faecal coliform) analyzed were higher in the downstream of the sampling
points after the industrial discharge points than the upstream. The
downstream values of all the parameters were higher than their
corresponding upstream values, indicating that discharge of industrial
effluent may have impacted on the quality of the river water. Self-purification capacity of the river was not enough to reduce the pollutants
levels to acceptable limits. This research shows that industrial effluent is
potentially impacting the river water
... Numerous operations in the iron and steel sector produce enormous amounts of air pollutants, liquid effluents, and solid waste [1]. The wastes, which are often released into the environment as effluents [2], have been reported to contain significant levels of primordial radionuclides [3]. Through the food chain, these radionuclides and their offspring are passed on to man. ...
The environmental risks connected to the operations of Ife Iron and Steel Nigeria Limited, Ile-Ife, located in Osun State, are examined in this paper. According to reports, the soot and other particles the company's operations release are bad for the locals' health and threaten their sources of income. In order to calculate the absorbed dose, external hazard index, and annual effective dose for the estimation of the potential biological risk/damage to the community, the radionuclides present in soil taken from the area around the industry have been identified and their activity concentrations measured. Gamma ray spectrometry with a NaI detector was used to identify the radionuclides and determine the activity content in soil samples taken from the Fashina community. The absorbed dose rates due to the terrestrial gamma rays at 1.0m above the ground in the study area are in the range of 28.85 nGy/h to 37.05 nGy/h with an average of 33.30 nGy/h which is lower than the world average value of 59 nGy/h. The external hazard index ranges from 0.167 to 0.220 with an average of 0.194 which is less than 1.0. The outdoor annual effective doses are in the range of 0.035 mSv/y to 0.045 mSv/y with an average value of 0.041 mSv/y which is lower compared with the world average value of 0.07 mSv/y. The results show that the annual effective dose from natural radioactivity around the industry has an average value lower than the natural world recommended value.
... The physico-chemical properties of river water and their impacts have been studied by many researchers. Rosli [5], and Weldemariam (2013) [6] are only a few of the researchers who have looked into the physicochemical properties of river water and their impacts. According to Korai et al. (2008) [7] and Murugan et al. (2012) [8,] the physico-chemical properties of river water affect fish diversity. ...
For all living things, water is one of the most important sources. Despite being a renewable resource, clean water scarcity is a major problem in many regions of the world. We require water for a variety of things, including food production, personal hygiene, electrical generation, fire control, and most importantly, survival. Nine sampling stations were chosen at various locations along the Mahanadi and its tributary, the Katha Jodi River, in the Cuttack area (S1-S9). To collect a tiny amount of water from the water source for water analysis and to look at the physico-chemical components that are present in the water, sampling is done. Our study sites' dissolved oxygen concentrations range from 3.9 to 5.8 mg/lit, and the water samples from all of the sites are only mildly alkaline. All study sites have alkalinities below 150 mg/lit, ranging from 129 mg/lit to 162 mg/lit. All of the study sites' water conductivities are within the typical range of river water, or 200 to 1000 mhos/cm. All of the study locations, with the exception of our study sites 1 and 2, have high nitrate levels of greater than 100 mg/lit. Our study sites had phosphate concentrations between 0.8 and 2.0 mg/lit, and a river shouldn't have more phosphates than 0.1 mg/L. Over these limits, phosphorus can be quite hazardous.
... Therefore, this factor represents anthropogenic activities with many local impacts (Ibrahim et al., 2014). The high loading of organic mixtures in the water body shows that the stream is vigorously tainted with organic and inorganic contaminations (Otokunefor and Obiukwu, 2005). PC3 described 8.65 % of the total variance through an active loading on K, PO 4 , CL, and NH 3 -N as shown in Table 6 and Fig. 3. ...
The study investigates the latent pollution sources and most significant parameters that cause spatial variation and develops the best input for water quality modelling using principal component analysis (PCA) and artificial neural network (ANN). The dataset, 22 water quality parameters were obtained from Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE). The PCA generated six significant principal component scores (PCs) which explained 65.40 % of the total variance. Parameters for water quality variation are mainlyrelated to mineral components, anthropogenic activities, and natural processes. However, in ANN three input combination models (ANN A, B, and C) were developed to identify the best model that can predict water quality index (WQI) with very high precision. ANN A model appears to have the best prediction capacity with a coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.9999 and root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.0537. These results proved that the PCA and ANN methods can be applied as tools for decision-making and problem-solving for better managing of river quality.
... Its disposal has being a source of concern to rubber factory owners and environmentalist. Its use as soil amendments will go a long way in the reduction of the cost of rubber production, improving soil fertility for the benefit of the crop and also taking care of issues of water pollution raised by environmentalist and the problem of disposal posed to rubber processing factories [19,20,21]. Hence, this study seeks to look at the influence of rubber effluent and NPK fertilizer on the performance and fruit quality of snake tomato (Trichosanthes cucumerina l. haines) grown in a three and four years existing rubber plantation. ...
Small holder rubber farmer that account for over 75% of rubber production in Nigeria has withdrawn from production as a result of income gap created by the long gestation period of rubber amidst other agronomic challenges, hence the need to create an agronomic system that will incorporate other compactable short duration to generate additional and early source of income and take care of other agronomic challenges. An experiment was conducted in 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons to evaluate the influence of rubber effluent and NPK fertilizer on the performance and fruit quality of snake tomato in a three and four year old (an existing) rubber plantation. The treatments include sole rubber, sole snake tomato and their intercrop combinations with rubber effluent and NPK laid out in randomized complete block design replicated thrice. Data were collected on vine length, vine girth, number of leaves, leaf area, fruit yield and its components, nutrient content and uptake. Growth parameters measured increased with increase in rubber effluent application however NPK fertilized plants were superior to rubber effluent treated plant at increased dosage as there was no marked difference between plants treated with effluent at 70kgN-1 rubber effluent and NPK treated plants, it was also observed that the fourth year plant were higher than the third year. Nutrient content was observed to increase with fertilizer application as non fertilized had the lowest nutrient content, the least uptake was observed in the non fertilized plants.
... The finding is supported by the earlier reported literatures, that the quality of an aquatic ecosystem not only depends upon the seasonality but also on biological diversity and availability of water quantity of the ecosystem (Odiete, 1999;Ghavzan et al., 2006a,b;Nema, 2006;Tiwari and Chauhan, 2006;Tas and Gonulol, 2007;Verma et al., 2011). It was evident that the declined concentrations of dissolved oxygen is negatively influenced by the suspended organic and toxic matter in the water reservoirs (Daniel et al., 2002;Otokunefor and Obiukwu, 2005;Rim-Rukeh and Awatefe, 2006;Doi et al., 2013;Sharma et al., 2016). According to Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) the recommended level of dissolved oxygen in river should be greater than 5.0 mg/l (ICMR, 1975;CPCB, 2000;WHO, 2004). ...
Water is the main source of life. The natural aquatic resources are the major habitat for a large group ofindividuals including nonchordates to chordates. As water are the most abundantly available and occupying2/3 of the Earth and required by all kinds of life. Therefore, quality of water is of vital concern for mankindsince it is directly linked with living beings in term of habitat, sustainability, economy and human welfare.The current study is designed to work out the quality characteristics and their oscillations in physico-chemicalattributes of river Yamuna water in the district Bhaghpat, Uttar Pradesh, India. The investigation wasconducted during July, 2019 to June, 2021 and the sample was analysed in the Bioanalytical Laboratory,Department of Biotechnology, MM (DU), Mullana-Ambala (HR), India. The effects of monthly and seasonalpossible attributes including discharge of industrial effluents and natural calamities for the spatialfluctuations in the hydrobiological parameters of river Yamuna water was assessed through the advancednumerical tools. The monthly physicochemical attributes showed the seasonality biased trends during thestudy. The mean value ± SE of water temperature (oC), dissolved oxygen (mg/l), alkalinity (mg/l), acidity(mg/l) and hardness (mg/l) was recorded as 23.7±1.3 oC, 4.2±0.22 mg/l, 100.09±4.8 mg/l, 44.55±4.38 mg/l and 550.8±30.3 mg/l respectively during July 2019 to June, 2020. However, the physicochemical attributesduring July 2020 to June, 2021 reflected augmented trends for water temperature (24.2±1.27 oC), dissolvedoxygen (5.1±0.16 mg/l), alkalinity (103.95±5.25 mg/l). On the contrary, acidity (39.92±2.63 mg/l) andhardness (522.48±39.82 mg/l) recorded decline. The observation reflected the requirement of urgent andsystematic management strategies to overcome these invisible scarce and conserve the natural quality ofthese water resources.
... The presence of impurities in the pristine aquatic body changes its worth and frequently causes severe pressure on water biota. Numerous works have revealed a positive relationship between contaminations from petroleum wastes on the health of water biotas (Otukunefor and Obiukwu, 2005). Waste comprising lubricant when released into an aquatic ecosystem can result in dissolved oxygen (DO) reduction because of the alteration of carbon-based materials into inorganic complexes, displacement of aquatic organisms through a reduction in crustaceans with no carapace (amphipod) population that is vital in the structure of the food chain and eutrophication . ...
Mushrooms are undeniably rich in nutritive and therapeutic compounds; nevertheless, they are
excellent bio-accumulators of hazardous substances in contaminated conditions. This study aims at
investigating the potential human health risk associated with the consumption of mushrooms from two
locations in Ibadan, Nigeria. The concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni and Al in six species of
wild mushrooms collected from University of Ibadan Campus and Oki in Ibadan, Nigeria were
determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The mean concentration (mgkg-1
) of heavy metals
in the mushrooms ranged from (6.33 – 8.33) for Pb, (1.08 – 1.62) for Cd, (2.93 – 4.81) for Cr, (4.26 –
17.95) for Cu, (1.68 – 5.78) for Ni, (21.63 – 134.40) for Zn, (3.72 – 8.10) for Al. Lenzites betulina
recorded the highest concentration for most of the heavy metals studied (Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn, Al) while
Pleurotus ostreatus recorded the least concentration for most of the heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Ni, Zn).
The Estimated Daily Intakes of the heavy metals in the mushrooms were all within the PTDI limit set
by JECFA and WHO. The Target Hazard Quotient values of the heavy metals were all <1, however,
the hazard indices of the mushrooms were all >1, indicating health risk. The Carcinogenic Risk
values of Cd, Cr, and Ni exceeded the acceptable limit of 1E-04 as set by USEPA with the highest
range value (2.92 – 4.37E-03) recorded in Cadmium. Therefore, this study suggests that the
consumption of mushrooms collected from metal-polluted substrates increases carcinogenic and non-
carcinogenic health risk of mushroom consumers in the study locations.
... Hence the pH of the two samples poses no immediate threat to the aquatic organisms should they come in contact with water bodies and the people that use these water bodies, it can also be used for irrigation. Similar results were recorded by Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) while evaluating the impact of refinery effluent on the physicochemical properties of a water body in the Niger Delta; Ekhaise and Anyasi (2005), Alao et al., (2010) and Egwuonwu et al. (2012) also got a similar result. The total dissolved solids (TDS) and other metal values for both samples were below the maximum permissible limit of FEPA, but the total suspended solids (TSS) value of the influent is higher than the FEPA maximum limit, though it had undergone treatment before been discharged as effluent, whose value is lower than the FEPA permissible limit. ...
This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of effluent and influent, from a beverage plant in Lagos state, using haematology, sperm assay, and impact of the physicochemical parameters on mice. The effluent and influent were collected in sterile bottles and were separately administered orally to 5 groups of mice at test concentrations of 6.5%, 12.5%, 25%, 50% and 100%. Mice in each group weighing approximately between 30 and 35 g were given 0.3ml/body weight of mice in each test concentration orally, daily for 21 days. Each treatment group and the control group comprised 3 mice. The resulting data showed that both test samples induced a dose-dependent, statistically significant (p<0.05) increase in the number of sperms with abnormal morphology, haematology, as well as diverse histopathological changes in the liver. The samples were also analyzed for physicochemical properties with standard laboratory techniques. The results obtained revealed that both the effluent and influent samples contain constituents (e.g. Cd, Cr and Ni) in quantities and values that are capable of inducing mutation in the biological system. The interaction of some of these constituents with the genetic material in the differentiating cells during gametogenesis may be responsible for many sperm abnormalities observed in this study. Therefore, this study is important in environmental waste management, and for the assessment of the genotoxic effects of chemicals (both solid and dissolved) in wastewater.
... Hence the pH of the two samples poses no immediate threat to the aquatic organisms should they come in contact with water bodies and the people that use these water bodies, it can also be used for irrigation. Similar results were recorded by Otokunefor and Obiukwu (2005) while evaluating the impact of refinery effluent on the physicochemical properties of a water body in the Niger Delta; Ekhaise and Anyasi (2005), Alao et al., (2010) and Egwuonwu et al. (2012) also got a similar result. The total dissolved solids (TDS) and other metal values for both samples were below the maximum permissible limit of FEPA, but the total suspended solids (TSS) value of the influent is higher than the FEPA maximum limit, though it had undergone treatment before been discharged as effluent, whose value is lower than the FEPA permissible limit. ...
Tomato is one of the most important vegetables grown for their edible fruits with abundant vitamins that are essential for human diet. The constraint posed by soils low fertility has been a major production challenge in the tropics. This limitation can be resolved by adequate fertilizer application which increases the yield of crops. Hence, this study sought to determine the influence of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer rate on the growth and fruit yields of tomato. This study was established at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (7° 15' N and 3° 25' E). A variety of tomato (BESKE) was raised in the nursery for five weeks before being transplanted into 15 kg bag of sterile soil with NPK (15:15:15) applied at different rates (60, 90 and 120 kg N/ha; 400, 600 and 800 kg/ha) 3 weeks after planting. Data collected was on plant height, number of leaves/plant, number of branches/plant, number of flowers/plant, fruit yield/ha and average fruit weight per hectare (ha). The data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using SAS edition 9.0 and significantly different means separated using LSD and Duncan multiple range test (DMRT) at a probability level of 5%. NPK 15:15:15 application at 60 kg N/ha is suitable for tomato (beske) production as it best influences the growth and yield parameters (fruit yield of 9.8 t/ha). A calibrated rate of 34.2 kg N/ha of NPK 15:15:15 with an estimated fruit yield of 11.2 t/ha is also recommended for further studies.
... The peaks of phenol decreased and finally diminished at the end of six days exposure. This agrees with the findings of Otokunefor and Obiukwu, (2005) where Bacillus spp was used to bioremediate phenol in refinery effluent laced with various concentrations of phenol and monitored for twenty eight (28) days. Sulfuric acid, ammonium thiosulphate, potassium bromide and phenol were completely eliminated in the experimental sample (ES) 25% of sample B. It is noteworthy that the 25% ES had also lost acetic acid, ammonium bromide and potassium fluoride (Figs. ...
... Sediments are an important sink and long-term store of a variety of pollutants, particularly heavy metals, and may serve as an enriched source of food for benthic organisms in estuarine ecosystems [18,19] because they are in constant flux with the overlying water column [20][21][22] Some of the sediment-bound metals may be remobilized and released into water as a result of changes in environmental conditions that leads to acidification and reduction/oxidation and impose adverse effects on living organisms [23]. The occurrence of increased concentrations of heavy metals in sediments can be a good indicator of man-induced pollution rather than natural enrichment of the sediment by geological weathering [24,25] leading to the accumulation of toxic products in the receiving water bodies with potentially serious consequences on the ecological communities [26]. It will also cause changes in the nutrient concentrations of water which may lead to harmful effects on humans and aquatic life. ...
Heavy metals can be released into the aquatic environment through storm-water runoff and wastewater discharges and reprocessing from various industrial and anthropogenic activities. They have the potential to be toxic to biota above certain threshold concentrations while sediments in the marine ecosystems act as long-term sinks for many anthropogenic contaminants such as these organic pollutants. This study was therefore aimed at determining the heavy metal contents in the surface water, sediments and fishes from the Bodo/Bonny river. Sampling was done according to standard protocols. Surface water, sediment and fish samples were collected from 5 stations (BBW1, BBW2, BBW3, BBW4 and LFPW5) with LFPW5 serving as control. Sediment was collected from 0-15 and 15-30 cm. The fish gills, liver, kidney etc. were excised from the rib for heavy metals (Pb, Fe, Zn, Cr, Cd etc) analysis using sterile scalpel. The results of heavy metal in surface water samples show that Zinc had a range of 173.1±10.21 to 179.3±11.01 mg/kg in all sampling locations above the permissible limit of DPR limit of 5 mg/kg for Brackish/ Saline water. The sediment samples were loamy. The concentrations of trace metals in sediments revealed that Pb had the highest concentration of 48.61mg/kg at 0-15cm depth while Chromium had highest concentration of Original Research Article Galley Proof Ogbonna and Origbe; CJAST, 40(18): 77-87, 2021; Article no.CJAST.70706 78 41.54mg/kg at 15-30cm depth. Chromium, Cadmium and Copper increased with increase in depth at 15-30cm while Lead, Zinc and Iron took the reverse trend at 0-15cm depth. Heavy metal content of fish samples from the river water show that the mean concentration values in the fresh fish was in the increasing order of Copper < Cadmium < Nickel < Lead <Iron< Zinc. The data generated from this study showed that there were actually heavy metals accumulations in fish tissues that were above the WHO permissible limits. The increased heavy metals concentration from all sites suggest that fishes that inhabit polluted areas risk bioaccumulation, which go on to affect the overall health of the human population that depend on such rivers for fishing, drinking or irrigation.
... Industrial effluents contaminate the agricultural soil with industrial wastes and has become a critical environmental concern due to their ability to induce oxidationreduction reactions, and hence oxidative stress in plants (Otokunefor 2005;Hossain et al. 2012). ROS are responsible for numerous stress-induced destruction to macromolecules and eventually to cellular structure (Mostofa et al. 2015). ...
Physical agents such as soil salinity, drought, low and high temperatures, solar UV radiations, gamma radiation and others either directly or indirectly via the induction of oxidative stress and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) frequently perturb the chemical or physical structures of DNA and induce both cytotoxic and genotoxic stress. This genomic instability eventually affects biochemical properties and the morphological characteristics of the plant. The impact of these physical agents damages enzymatic and non-enzymatic components of the plant cell, recurrently resulting in loss of cell viability therefore resulting retarded plant growth and development. There are different sites for the production of ROS such as chloroplast, mitochondria, peroxisome, apoplast and cell wall. The ROS comprises both free radicals (O2− superoxide radicals; OH− hydroxyl radical; HO2− perhydroxy radical and RO− alkoxy radicals) and non-radicals (molecular) forms (H2O2− hydrogen peroxide and 1O2− singlet oxygen). In chloroplasts, photosystem I and II (PSI and PSII) are the major sites for the production of 1O2 and O2−. Plants have developed a highly proficient mechanism for stress tolerance via the rapid change in the expression of the responsive genes at the transcriptional level. The antioxidant defense machinery protects plants against oxidative stress damages. Plants possess very efficient non-enzymatic (ascorbic acid (ASH), glutathione (GSH), tocopherols, carotenoid, proline) and enzymatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione-S- transferase (GST) and antioxidant defense systems that work in recital to control the cascades of uncontrolled oxidation and protect plant cells from oxidative damage by scavenging of ROS.
... The perceived consequences of unregulated waste disposal into water bodies used for potable water sources has stimulated various studies on industrial effluent (Aluyor & Badmus, 2003a;Aluyor & Badmus, 2003b;Eletta et. al., 2005;Otukunefor & Obiukwu, 2005;Aisien et al., 2003). ASM Science Journal, Volume 16, 2021 2 Ele River in Nnewi North Local Government Area is an important water body as it serves for various purposes including agricultural and domestic needs. ...
Excessive sediment deposition results to hydro-ecological problems particularly for shallow streams that experience significant point-source pollution. In recent times, models have been employed to investigate sediment transport in river systems. The aim of this research work is to model sediment transport of Ele River using particle tracing methodology. The governing equations of fluid flow and particle movement were modelled using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.3a. The result was validated using experimental data and the model result showed good agreement with coefficient of determination of 0.99. Study results showed that sediment at the river banks posses lower velocities compared to sediments in midstream. This implies higher sediment deposition at the banks due to low flow velocity. These sediments deposition constitute problems to the river system through degradation of water quality and blocking irrigation nozzles, impacting irrigation efficiency and crop production.
... Physico chemical parameters revealed that among the four sites, site 1 is highly polluted having low dissolved oxygen (mg/L), high BOD (mg/L), high carbon dioxide(mg/L), neutral pH (°C), moderate temperature (°C) and salinity(ppt) followed by site 3 and 2. Site 4 is recognized as least polluted with high dissolved oxygen (mg/L), low BOD value (mg/L), less biogenic carbon dioxide (mg/L), alkaline pH (°C), low temperature (°C), and moderate salinity(ppt) ( Table 5). High BOD value may be an indication of the presence of aerobic bacteria (Otokunefor and Obiukwu, 2005) (Table 5). Estuarine fishes are one among the most edible fishes which are of great demand (Wijeyaratne and Costa, 1986). ...
Fishes are continuously exposed to the microorganisms present in water and in the sediment. The present study was attempted to screen the pollution indicator bacteria in the tissues of an estuarine fish Mugil cephalus from Kureepuzha Backwater, a part of Ashtamudi Lake. Total heterotrophic bacteria, total coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli and fecal streptococci were enumerated from the fish tissues using standard microbiological procedures. Comparison of bacterial count in the skin, gill and gut of Mugil cephalus revealed that highest count of indicator microbes were found in the skin followed by the gill and gut of fish from all sites except site 4. Fishes from site 4, they show bacteria predominantly in the gut. Two way Anova showed a significant difference in microbial count between sites and between tissues except Total heterotrophic bacteria and fecal streptococci between sites. Results of physico chemical parameters also supports that the anthropogenic activities accumulated in the study area, causing the disruption of hydrological quality of Lake and thus increases the load of detrimental microorganisms. Hence it is recommended that good processing of fish such as washing, scraping scales, removal of gills and gut contents and proper cooking help to reduce microbial pathogen in fish body and make it safe for consumption.
... In the discussion of environmental pollution in Nigeria, the case of the Niger Delta which is the nation's oil bearing region often occupies the position of importance. This is a consequence of the negative impacts of the oil industry that the region plays host to (Akporido, 2013;Akporido and Asagba, 2013;Uyigue and Agho 2007;Osuji and Adesiyan, 2005;Otokunefor and Obiukwu, 2005). In its landmark report on Ogoniland, the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) notes that through field observations and scientific investigation, it found that oil contamination in Ogoni land was widespread and severely impacting many components of the environment (UNEP, 2011). ...
Discourse on environmental pollution in Nigeria has often revolved around the environmental impacts of the operations of multinational oil companies in Nigeria's Niger Delta. However, experience has shown that other regions of the country also contend with pollution problems. Informed by this position, this study examines environmental pollution associated with the activities of Ife Iron and Steel Nigeria Limited, which is located in Osun State. The study makes use of empirical data that comprises of unstructured in-depth interviews, observation, and an interview conducted by a media house (Channels Television Station, Lagos). The data was analysed using the thematic approach. Results from fieldwork revealed that pollution from operations of Ife Iron and Steel Company are sources of concern to communities in the vicinity of its location. It is reported that soot and other particles emitting from the company's operations are harmful to the health of the residents and undermine their sources of livelihood. Informed by its findings, this paper argues that without effective enforcement of environmental regulations in Nigeria, people's health and livelihood will continue to be adversely affected by the negativities arising from industrial operations.
... The process temperature is relatively higher than that recommended by the regulatory body (DPR) (30 o C) however the treatment process was only able to remove 3.2 and 3.9% of the first and second year, comparing this with the aquatic water quality requirement it is far above the limit, this will definitely affect the fauna and flora (Obire and Amusan, 2003;Otukunefor and Biukwu, 2005). Again the percentage temperature removal recorded in this study is far lower than that reported (52.9% i.e. from 42.0 o C to 25.9 o C) by Nwokoma and Degde (2012) in a similar study. ...
The present study which was carried out (on a facility that is located on Latitude 04 o 35.52'N and Longitude 08 o 25.45'E) using standard method of analysis monthly for two years has demonstrated that the treated produced water discharged from the crude oil processing into the near shore environment is 63.6% (each for both years) efficient when compared with the Guideline limits of the Regulatory body (Department of Petroleum Resources [DPR] of Nigeria). Out of the fourteen parameters investigated temperature, salinity as chloride, total suspended solids, turbidity and total dissolved solids were above the regulatory limits. There is therefore need to add additional polishing technologies to further reduce these parameters before discharging into the aquatic environment. Due to cost implications of such high technologies there is need for the operators to routinely clean up their existing produced water treatment plants so as to meet 100% efficiency of the regulatory body to maintain a sustainable environment.
... The observed high phenol concentration may be in association with discharge of large quantities of untreated non-process wastewater from the refinery into the study area. This is in agreement with Otukunefor and Biukwu (2005). Similarly, the observed mean concentration of 1.47 mg L À 1 and 0.97 mg L À 1 at SS 2 and SS 3 as shown in Table 1 and Figure 2f far exceed permissible limits of 0.5 mg L À 1 by WHO for surface waters. ...
Assessment of water quality of Ajali, Karawa and Nnam rivers in Enugu State, Nigeria, was determined over a 10 year-span, in order to ascertain the level of deterioration of the water over time. Water samples were collected in 2013 and 2023 from the aforementioned rivers. For these 2years, the samples were collected in April and July to represent early rainy season and peak rainy season respectively. The physicochemical parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, total hardness, total suspended solids, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, calcium, magnesium, sulphate, nitrate and chloride were determined using standard methods. The water quality indicator ranges were found to be as follows: pH: 4.10–9.23, electrical conductivity (μs/cm): 6.88-53.30, total hardness (mg/L): 4.00-220.00, total suspended solids (mg/L): 0.002-91.00, total dissolved solids (mg/L): 0.08-9.52, alkalinity (mg/L): 10.00-31.50, dissolved oxygen (mg/L): 0.25-36.80, biochemical oxygen demand (mg/L): 0.05-73.60, calcium(mg/L): 0.31-9.40, magnesium (mg/L): 0.003-0.68, sulphate (mg/L): 119.35-425.65, nitrate (mg/L): 0.07-36.80, chloride (mg/L): 3.60-30.00. The WQI values of the three rivers were as follows: 72.93, 78.93 and 66.17 in April 2013; 47.34,85.79 and 75.81 in July 2013, while 425.3, 194.1 and 242.0 in April 2023; 70.68, 50.61 and 62.95 in July 2023 for Ajali, Karawa and Nnam rivers respectively. Ajali and Karawa river water were only suitable for drinking in July 2013 and July 2023 respectively. All the April samples show high level of deterioration and as such is very poor and unfit for human consumption. Generally, there was an increasing trend in the pollution level of the rivers over the period. The need for appropriate treatment cannot be over-emphasized
All living creatures depend on water as an essential natural resource. However, increasing human population, development, and technology severely strained freshwater ecosystems, changing the freshwater’s quality status by introducing massive amounts of contaminants. Increasing population tends a pressure of higher requirement for high-quality water for household use and commercial growth, which is affecting this valuable resource in becoming more and more endangered. Consequently, it is crucial to monitor the quality of this valuable resource. Freshwater pollution can be particularly harmful to the health of people and aquatic life since it is utilized as the primary source of portable water by a large portion of the global population. Chemical contaminants have long-term effects on aquatic and related biota in freshwater ecosystems. Therefore, it is vital to regularly check on the health of the freshwater ecosystem, and an attention should be paid to the treatment of effluents before they are released into the freshwater ecosystem.
The physico-chemical and microbial examination of Ajali River in Ezeagu Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State, South-eastern Nigeria, were carried out to assess the characteristics of the water for potability. Water samples were collected from three sampling points, including the one close to the brewery effluent discharge into the river and two different points that were affected by non-point sources. Altogether, eighteen samples were collected for two years during the dry, early and late rainy seasons. The physico-chemical, as well as microbial analyses of the samples, were determined following the standard methods. Significant spatial and seasonal variations (p<0.05) were clear for some physico-chemical parameters such as pH, phosphate, and sodium. Mean values of the Water Quality Index (WQI) were: dry season (104.23±9.75); early rainy season (113.22±8.78) and the late rainy season (102.58 ± 11.15). All the values are above 100 showing that the calculated WQI in all the seasons is not good however after the addition of lime, boiling and filtering to increase the quality.
This research project was carried out to compare study the impact of anthropogenic activities in the aquatic ecosystem of surface water resources and thereby evaluate the impacts amongst the different stations along the Borokiri section of the Bonny River estuary, located in Port Harcourt-City Local Government Area, Rivers State. Nigeria. Several anthropogenic activities are perennially carried out along the shores of the Borokiri sections of the river, including the dumping of sewage and domestic refuse, abattoir cum other mainly organic wastes being generated by other types of an anthropogenically induced influx of wastes into the aquatic ecosystem of the Borokiri sections of the Bonny River estuary. The Borokiri section of the river was delineated into three sampling stations; 1, 2, and 3-upstream, midstream and downstream respectively, for the purpose of the physico-chemical analysis of the water parameters of the river. The results showed that temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, turbidity, nitrate, phosphate, total alkalinity, conductivity, total hardness, chloride, and sulphate, were altered due to anthropogenic activities. Conductivity was the most significantly impacted by the anthropogenically induced pollutants and to a lesser extent pH and total alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, nitrite, and total hardness was also affected above the permissible levels recommended by the WHO. The alteration of water quality parameters by human activities could adversely alter the composition and abundance of biodiversity including fisheries and plankton, downstream application of water and its portability to a great extent. Therefore, this study recommends that appropriate measures be put in place to reduce to the bare minimum whereby it cannot be completely prevented; the identified anthropogenic factors influencing the alteration of the water quality of the Borokiri sections of the Bonny River estuary, by the relevant regulatory Agencies.
Water contamination by crude oil is a growing challenge and little is known about the probabilistic and non-probabilistic ecosystem and species consequences. Therefore, research aimed at understanding species survival strategy in crude oil-contaminated environments with focus on cellular metabolic alterations and dynamics is vital. This study assessed the alterations in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glucose (GLU), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH), total protein (TP), uric and nucleic acids (UA, RNA, and DNA) in the liver, heart, kidney, blood supernatants, and muscle homogenates of African sharptooth catfish ([ASC] Clarias gariepinus) exposed to varying bonny-light crude oil concentrations to understand the underlying cause of their delayed development as well as potential health and wellbeing. Three concentrations (20, 50, and 100 mg/L) of diluted whole bonny-light crude oil (DWC), water-soluble (WSF), and water-insoluble (WIF) fractions of bonny-light crude oil were used to grow ASC for nine weeks at room temperature. Biochemical assessments revealed significant (at p < 0.05) elevations in heart LDH (48.57 ± 4.67 to 3011.34 ± 4.67 U/L) and blood G-6-PDH activities (54.86 ± 0.00 to 128 ± 18.29 mU/mL), GLU (0.22 ± 0.01 to 0.77 ± 0.01 mg/dL), TP (5.15 ± 0.14 to 22.33 ± 0.21 g/L), UA (0.29 ± 0.05 to 10.05 ± 0.27 mg/dL), as well as liver DNA (0.38 ± 0.02 to 2.33 ± 0.09 μg/mL) and RNA (12.52 ± 0.05 to 30.44 ± 0.02 μg/mL) levels for laboratory-grown ASC in DWC, WSF, WIF, and oil-impacted Ubeji river collected ASC relative to the control. Due to greater levels of cellular metabolic alterations in oil-impacted Ubeji River collected ASC, it is evident that bonny-light contamination levels in the river is greater than 100 mg/L. In conclusion, bonny-light crude oil is toxic to ASC and induces stress response. The ecological changes caused by bonny-light crude oil contamination may ultimately affect niche functioning and the development of organs in ASC.
In studies related to microbial physiology, social interactions like Quorum Sensing (QS) play a vital regulatory role. and have closely interlinked mechanisms. Based on reported data, diverse microbial groups have the capability to form biofilm. Biofilms comprise multi-cellular syntrophic associated microorganisms, with cell-cell and also cell surface attachment. Based on specified strain and the environmental factors, microorganisms use varied mechanisms for the growth and development of biofilm. The primary importance underlying biofilm development is to understand microbial defence mechanisms against any external agents. Interestingly, biofilms extend a broad spectrum of additional benefits like cell-cell signalling, environmental pollutant control, drug resistance and host-immune attacks. Simultaneously, biofilm confers various detrimental effects in natural, industrial and public health environment. This present chapter highlights about microbial biofilms with different metabolic degradation ability and potentially serve as a promising management strategy for environment organic pollutants.
Keywords – Biofilm, Quorum sensing, Microbial consortia, Aquatic environment, Organic pollutant
Hydroelectric power (HP) represents the main source of electricity in Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. The demand for new dam construction is high, and major projects are currently progressing through planning and implementation stages. New HP dams should comply with both past and emerging environmental requirements. River systems need water to maintain hydraulic and ecological functions. Flow regime disturbance can prevent rivers from providing their ecosystem services and disrupt riparian communities. Most dammed rivers in Africa are understudied, however, in terms of their environmental flow requirements. This study analysed the hydrological regime and water quality of the Ruzizi River. The research investigated conditions of minimum water flow and hydropeaking at the Ruzizi I HP dam in terms of land management constraints and ecological impacts. According to Gumbel’s hydrological model, a discharge of ∼130 m³/s showed the longest return period (12 years) among the most recurrent flows. By contrast, the maximum recorded discharge of 143 m³/s showed a return time of 76 years. Any discharge between 46 and 120 m³/s could occur at any time within three years. The discharge–hydropower production relationship for the power plant provided a possible minimum environmental flow of 28 m³/s (i.e., 25%). Drinking water quality was assessed according to WHO water quality index (WQI) standards. Turbidity (i.e., total suspended solids) upstream and downstream of dams correlated strongly with rainfall (r = 0.8; n = 12) and land use. WQI values observed in excess of WHO drinking water standards indicate that the Ruzizi River is currently unsuitable for drinking water purposes.
Water bodies, natural or man-made, are under threat due to rapid urbanization. This research paper assesses the water quality of 20 ponds located in the vicinity of urban habitats of Raipur district, Chhattisgarh (India) using the Water Quality Index (WQI). The samples were analyzed for 16 physicochemical parameters in the post-monsoon winter season. The parameters were used to calculate WQI and the ponds were categorized accordingly for end use purposes, that is, drinking, irrigation, industrial, or unfit for use without treatment. The WQI of post-monsoon samples resulted in that 75% of the total pond water samples are in excellent condition, & 25% of the samples are unfit for various activities like drinking, irrigation, industrial & domestic. A high value of nutrients was observed in all the ponds, suggesting that the nutrient entering through surface runoff, solid waste disposal, and wastewater is entering the ponds. Our results conclude that all ponds require interventional steps to restore pond water quality and stop it from further degradation, determining which trophic state of the ponds may change in the future. The spatial monitoring of physical and chemical properties of pond water helps to predict, identify, and assess the natural condition of the urban ponds and their relation with the surrounding (environment) and helps in adopting rejuvenation measures.
This study examined the economic impacts of effluent discharge from the Port Harcourt Refinery, on the receiving environment (quality of water in Ekerekana Creek, Okrika LGA Rivers State). Measurement of effluent variables was carried out according to standard methods for the examination of waste water by the American Public Health Association (APHA).These methods were used to analyse the physico-chemical parameters of the Refinery effluent and the effluent receiving river water bodies. The study of effluent behaviour along the discharge system was done by a two way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Physicochemical parameters and concentrations of some heavy metals in the refinery effluent along the discharge system were compared with that of DPR set limits for waste water discharge into surface waters. To identify and discover the significant pollutants entering in to the creek, Principal component analysis (PCA) was used. The results obtained from the study indicated that the physicochemical parameters of the refinery effluent and creek water varied significantly (P<0.05). The mean values for Parameters such as, COD, BOD, TDS, phosphate, Total Iron and total coliform were all above maximum permissible limit as specified by the DPR in all sampling sites. Other parameter such as Dissolved oxygen was also above permissible limits at 1000m and 1500m downstream. Total oil and Grease analysed on sediment samples were higher than the permissible limits in the creek water. The implication is that economic activities has being stampeded; crops are not yielding as they are being surphocated to death as leaves are clone away from sunray by oil grease; Fishermen are being sacked from their job due effluent discharge. The environment becomes highly uncondusive for living and for any serious economic activities due to odour. However, tertiary treatment of effluents before discharge into the receiving water bodies should be adopted to minimize damage of aquatic environment. Measures should be taken to reduce odour of effluent during and after discharge by the introduction of powdered activated carbon basins.
Intensive increase in industrialization and urbanization has created avenue for plethora of additional wastewater worldwide. The effluent from these sources is being discharged into the water bodies and makes them contain high level of heavy metals, hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, acids, and alkali. Majority of the compounds are non-biodegradable and affects the aquatic as well as terrestrial life by contaminating them. Plants irrigated with the water containing industrial effluents exhibit stunted growth, altered photosynthetic function, induction of genotoxicity and oxidative stress which eventually leads to loss of productivity. Therefore, it is essential to assess the toxicity potential of such effluents and establish the appropriate treatment methods prior to their discharge. To detect the potential of these pollutants, various bacterial and plant-based assays are available. In this chapter, types of effluents from different industries, their impact on plants, the assays used to detect them are discussed. The chapter also discusses the measures which are being taken to mitigate the level of pollution in the water and the demanding advancement in them.
The present study was aimed to evaluate the pollution load and toxicity of petroleum refinery wastewater (PRW) before and after the biological treatment process. PRW induced phytotoxicity and cyto-genotoxicity in mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) and onion (Allium cepa L.) were investigated. The physico-chemical analysis such as pH, BOD, COD, EC, solids, total phenol, and other pollutants in PRW sample were high and beyond the permissible limits. The GC-MS and FTIR analysis suggest the presence of toxic organic pollutants. In comparison to control, the seeds of V. radiata exposed to 100% PRW sample showed a reduction in seed germination, root length, shoot length, and biomass by 50%, 85.1%, 69.3% and 36.6%, respectively, after 5 days of treatment. A. cepa root exposed to different concentration of wastewater samples indicated the reduction of root length and biomass in concentration dependant manner when compared to untreated solutions, after 5 days of incubation. A. cepa root tip rooted in different concentration (25%–100% v/v) of PRW samples showed a significant reduction in mitotic index (MI%) from 67.7 % to 38.7% compared to control root tip cells (79.3%) exposed to tap water indicating the induction of the cytotoxicity. Besides, wastewater induced genotoxicity as evidenced by the presence of various chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and nuclear abnormalities (NAs) in A. cepa root tip cells. However, after the secondary treatment process, the toxicity of the PRW was reduced compared to untreated. Thus, the present study’s finding reported that PRW generated different types of toxic organic and inorganic pollutants and may act as phytotoxic and cyto-genotoxic agents.
The effect of different land use types on the physicochemical water quality of a semi-arid coastal basin is examined. From nine sites, a comprehensive sampling campaign was executed during October 2018 to January 2019. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to determine the relationship between water quality characteristics and land use types at the sub-basin and buffer-zone scales. The one-way ANOVA test indicated that most of the parameters are significantly different (p < 0.05) among the sampling sites with the exception of pH, total hardness (TH), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N), ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N), dissolved oxygen (DO), chemical oxygen demand (COD) and iron (Fe). Agriculture and built-up/bare land had a positive relationship with turbidity, TSS, conductivity and Fe within 50 m and 150 m buffer zones. Built-up/bare land showed a positive relationship with turbidity, TSS and Cl at the sub-basin scale. Forest cover correlated negatively with water quality although not significantly. Grassland correlated significantly with temperature, Cl and total hardness. Results of the multiple regression analysis indicate that land use types within the riparian buffer zones had greater impact on water quality than at the sub-basin scale. This work provides essential information for land use planners and water managers towards sustainable water resources management.
The contamination of soil and groundwater by hazardous chemicals has become a major
concern due to the associated risks to human health and the environment. The ability of
Pseudomonas putida isolated from a petroleum refinery effluent to degrade diesel was
assessed in this study. The effluent sample was collected from the treatment plant in the
Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (K.R.P.C), Nigeria. The physicochemical
properties and heavy metal content of the effluent was determined, and three strains of
Pseudomonas putida were identified among the bacteria isolated using conventional
biochemical and phenotypic tests. The strain showing the highest degradation potential
after screening was selected for the final biodegradation studies. The ability of the
selected strain of Pseudomonas putida (C15a) to utilize the hydrocarbons in diesel was
assessed over a period of eighteen days, and monitored on a three-day interval by
evaluating the pH, hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial count and oil and grease content. It
was observed that the organism was able to utilize diesel for its metabolic needs as
shown by the increase in hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial (HUB) count and corresponding
decrease in oil and grease content as well as pH. The highest hydrocarbon utilizing
bacterial count was observed at day 15 (1.85 x 107
CFU/mL) with highest hydrocarbon
degradation occurring at day 18 (98.3%). The strain of Pseudomonas putida (C15a)
isolated in this study can be used as a candidate for further bioremediation studies on
petroleum.
Keywords: Petroleum, biodegradation, Pseudomonas putida, diesel, effluent
An 1-year study of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill found that spill residues on the oiled shorelines rapidly lost toxicity through weathering. After 1990, toxicity of sediments remained at only a few heavily oiled, isolated locations in Prince William Sound (AK, USA), as measured by a standard amphipod bioassay using Rhepoxynius abronius. Data from 648 sediment samples taken during the 1990 to 1993 period were statistically analyzed to determine the relationship between the total concentration of 39 parent and methyl-substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (defined as total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [TPAH]) and amphipod mortality and the effect of oil weathering on toxicity. A logistic regression model yielded estimates of the lower threshold, LC10 (lethal concentration to 10% of the population), and LC50 (median lethal concentration) values of 2,600, 4,100, and 10,750 ng/g TPAH (dry wt), respectively. Estimates of the threshold and LC50 values in this field study relate well to corresponding sediment quality guideline (SQG) values reported in the literature. For sediment TPAH concentrations >2,600 ng/g, samples with high mortality values (>90%) had relatively high fractions of naphthalenes and those with low mortality (<20%) had relatively high fractions of chrysenes. By 1999, the median sediment TPAH concentration of 117 ng/g for the post-1989 worst-case sites studied were well below the 2,600 ng/g toxicity threshold value, confirming the lack of potential for long-term toxic effects. Analysis of biological community structure parameters for sediment samples taken concurrently found that species richness and Shannon diversity decreased with increasing TPAH above the 2,600 ng/g threshold, demonstrating a correspondence between sediment bioassay results and biological community effects in the field. The low probability of exposure to toxic concentrations of weathered spill residues at the worst-case sites sampled in this study is consistent with the rapid overall recovery of shoreline biota observed in 1990 to 1991.
Three biomarkers of hydrocarbon exposure, CYP1A in liver vascular endothelium, liver ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD), and biliary fluorescent aromatic compounds (FACs), were examined in the nearshore fishes, masked greenling (Hexagrammos octogrammus) and crescent gunnel (Pholis laeta), collected in Prince William Sound, Alaska, 7-10 years after the Exxon Valdez oil spill (EVOS). All biomarkers were elevated in fish collected from sites originally oiled, in comparison to fish from unoiled sites. In 1998, endothelial CYP1A in masked greenling from sites that were heavily oiled in 1989 was significantly higher than in fish collected outside the spill trajectory. In 1999, fishes collected from sites adjacent to intertidal mussel beds containing lingering Exxon Valdez oil had elevated endothelial CYP1A and EROD, and high concentrations of biliary FACs. Fishes from sites near unoiled mussel beds, but within the original spill trajectory, also showed evidence of hydrocarbon exposure, although there were no correlations between sediment petroleum hydrocarbon and any of the biomarkers. Our data show that 10 years after the spill, nearshore fishes within the original spill zone were still exposed to residual EVOS hydrocarbons.
Urban stormwater runoff is a major source of contaminants to southern California's coastal waters, yet little is known about the fate and effects of these discharges. A 3-year multidisciplinary project was conducted to investigate the dispersion of stormwater plumes in Santa Monica Bay and the resultant impacts on the water column and benthos. This paper describes the toxicity component of the study. Sea urchin fertilization toxicity tests were conducted on stormwater from the two largest discharges into the bay: Ballona Creek, which drains a highly urbanized watershed, and Malibu Creek, which receives runoff from a largely undeveloped watershed. Every sample of Ballona Creek stormwater tested was toxic (usually >5 toxic units), while Malibu Creek stormwater had a lower frequency and magnitude of toxicity (usually <4 toxic units). Surface water samples collected within the Ballona Creek stormwater discharge plume were always toxic whenever the concentration of stormwater in the plume exceeded 10%. The toxic portion of the Ballona Creek stormwater plume extended more than 4 km offshore on one occasion. Toxicity identification studies indicated that zinc was the primary cause of toxicity in both Ballona Creek stormwater and the discharge plume. No acute sediment toxicity (10-day amphipod survival) was present in the study area, although interstitial water toxicity was present at some stations located near the mouth of Ballona Creek. Differences in watershed characteristics likely were responsible for the greater toxicity of the Ballona Creek stormwater discharge plume. The Ballona Creek watershed contained a greater degree of urbanization (83% versus 12% for Malibu Creek) and the presence of a network of concrete flood control channels resulted in a stormwater plume containing elevated concentrations of toxins that received less initial dilution (compared to Malibu Creek) in the nearshore environment.
Accumulation of heavy metals and histopathology were observed in Oreochromis niloticus exposed to treated petroleum refinery effluent from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Kaduna. Analysis of fish metal burden showed that the fish concentrated trace metals a thousand times above the levels existing in the exposure medium. Some metals were preferentially accumulated more than others and the accumulation was, in decreasing order, Pb, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Cr, Ni, and Cd. Whole fish metal burden was lower in fish from which the gill, liver, and kidney had been removed, suggesting that these organs accumulated the metals more than other tissues. Hemorrhaging of fins was observed in all treatment concentrations except that of the control, and fish exposed to 40 and 50% effluent were most affected. Erosion of the caudal fin was also observed in fish exposed to 40 and 50% effluent. Examination of the organs for histopathology revealed damages to the gills. Gills with edematous fused lamellae congested with blood were observed. No histopathological damage was observed in the liver and kidney. The extent of metal accumulation and histopathological damage were directly related to the effluent concentrations.
Cadmium chloride and zinc chloride were used to measure their short-term toxicity to an aquatic insect Ranatra elongata (Fabr.). The LC50 values were 0.497, 0.438, 0.355 and 0.288 mg/l for cadmium chloride and 2.853, 2.456, 1.934 and 1.658 mg/l for zinc chloride after 24, 48, 72 and 96 h, respectively. Cadmium chloride was found to be more toxic than zinc chloride.
Because of the prevalence of phenolic compounds in various types of effluents, both acute and embryo-larval bioassays were performed on eight phenolic compounds with rainbow trout, fathead minnows andDaphnia pulicaria. In flow-through bioassays, the 96-hr LC50 values for rainbow trout and fathead minnows ranged from <0.1 mg/L for hydroquinone to >100 mg/L for resorcinol.Daphnia pulicaria was consistently the least sensitive species tested as measured in 48-hr bioassays, while fathead minnows and rainbow trout varied in their relative sensitivity to phenolics as measured in 96-hr tests. Fathead minnows were more sensitive to phenol at 25°C than at 14°C.
In embryo-larval bioassays with phenol, fathead minnow growth was significantly reduced by 2.5 mg/L phenol, while rainbow trout growth was significantly reduced by 0.20 mg/L phenol. For both species the embryolarval effects concentration was 1.1% of the 96-hr LC50. Another embryolarval bioassay was attempted withp-benzoquinone, a highly toxic phenolic compound found in fossil fuel processing wastewaters, which was discontinued because the compound was rapidly degraded chemically or biologically in the headtank and aquaria.
Microbial transformations of cyclic hydrocarbons have received much attention during the past three decades. Interest in the degradation of environmental pollutants as well as in applications of microorganisms in the catalysis of chemical reactions has stimulated research in this area. The metabolic pathways of various aromatics, cycloalkanes, and terpenes in different microorganisms have been elucidated, and the genetics of several of these routes have been clarified. The toxicity of these compounds to microorganisms is very important in the microbial degradation of hydrocarbons, but not many researchers have studied the mechanism of this toxic action. In this review, we present general ideas derived from the various reports mentioning toxic effects. Most importantly, lipophilic hydrocarbons accumulate in the membrane lipid bilayer, affecting the structural and functional properties of these membranes. As a result of accumulated hydrocarbon molecules, the membrane loses its integrity, and an increase in permeability to protons and ions has been observed in several instances. Consequently, dissipation of the proton motive force and impairment of intracellular pH homeostasis occur. In addition to the effects of lipophilic compounds on the lipid part of the membrane, proteins embedded in the membrane are affected. The effects on the membrane-embedded proteins probably result to a large extent from changes in the lipid environment; however, direct effects of lipophilic compounds on membrane proteins have also been observed. Finally, the effectiveness of changes in membrane lipid composition, modification of outer membrane lipopolysaccharide, altered cell wall constituents, and active excretion systems in reducing the membrane concentrations of lipophilic compounds is discussed. Also, the adaptations (e.g., increase in lipid ordering, change in lipid/protein ratio) that compensate for the changes in membrane structure are treated.
Water, sediment, and fish were sampled from three streams that were receiving or had received effluents from oil refineries. Water and sediment samples were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Each stream contained aromatic carbons including substituted benzenes and naphthalenes, which are related to oil refinery operations. Fish were identified, counted, and examined for external lesions. Lengths and weights were recorded for older bullhead catfish, and their livers were examined histologically. Differences were seen in the diversity and abundance of fish among the upstream, impacted (effluent-receiving), and downstream stations. In one stream, differences in liver pathology were observed between reference bullhead, collected from an upstream station, and those collected at impacted stations with more than 50% of the bullheads taken from impacted stations having some sort of pathological change, including one with a liver clear-cell focus, which is considered a preneoplastic lesion in rodents. These data suggest a correlation between contamination of water and sediments with aromatic hydrocarbons, presumably from refinery effluents, and compromised fish health.
Waste waters released by oil-processing and petrochemical enterprises are characterized by high amounts of oil products, polycyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, metal derivatives, surface-active substances, sulfides, naphthylenic acids and other chemicals. Due to ineffectiveness of purification systems, the waste waters grow into serious danger for water bodies. Control taking into account some priorities suggested should cover contents of the waste waters before the inflow into water bodies as well as quality of waters in the sources.
Pollution of aquatic ecosystems poses a serious threat to aquatic organisms and ultimately the entire ecosystem. Understanding how a toxin affects embryonic development is key to determining the risk a pollutant represents to the environment. Extraembryonic membranes, such as the chorion of fish eggs, provide a protective barrier between the embryo and the environment. Although the fish chorion excludes many chemical pollutants, some noxious agents can still gain access to the aquatic embryo. Therefore a monitoring system that tests the effects directly upon the embryo must be established. Although exposure to a single toxin in the laboratory can determine the concentration at which a pollutant becomes a health or environmental hazard, embryos and adults in nature are not merely affected by a single chemical, but are exposed to mixtures of different pollutants. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) and medaka (Oryzias latipes) embryos were employed for the rapid observation of the effects of single chemicals and chemical mixtures on development. Using dechorionation and a perivitelline space microinjection system, the embryos were effective sentinels for low concentrations of aquatic pollutants. The developmental effects of small quantities of toxins were observed. Embryos treated during the late gastrula stage of development with hexachlorobenzene (HCB); 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD); toluene; benzene; or mixtures of these chemicals developed cardiovascular abnormalities. The zebrafish dechorionation exposure technique, Micro Intrachorionic Zebrafish Embryo Live Laboratory test, was especially effective in testing the pollutant mixtures. Combinations of both TCDD and benzene (as well as the toluene and benzene combinations) were tested and the mixtures acted synergistically; the combinations were more toxic than either chemical by itself. Hexachlorobenzene- and TCDD-treated embryos tested positively for expression of cytochrome P450 1A indicating that the cytochrome metabolic pathways were already functional in these early embryos, and suggested that a product of the cytochrome system may be involved in HCB and TCDD pollution associated cardiovascular defects.
Bisphenol A (CAS 85-05-7) may be released into the environment through its use and handling, and permitted discharges. BPA is moderately soluble (120 to 300 mg/L at pH 7), may adsorb to sediment (Koc 314 to 1524), has low volatility, and is not persistent based on its rapid biodegradation in acclimated wastewater treatment plants and receiving waters (half-lives 2.5 to 4 days). BPA is "slightly to moderately" toxic (algal EC50 of 1000 micrograms/L) and has low potential for bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms (BCFs 5 to 68). The chronic NOEC for Daphnia magna is > 3146 micrograms/L. Surface water concentrations are at least one to several orders of magnitude lower than chronic effects, with most levels nondetected.
In the last decade, an area of increasing estuarine research in the New York/New Jersey Harbor has been the identification of toxic contaminant sources, mapping of contaminant levels in water and sediments, and assessment of contaminant accumulation in biota. The accumulation of anthropogenic contamination in the harbor's sediments has occurred for centuries, primarily from land-based municipal and industrial sources. Contaminants from land-based sources introduced into surface waters rapidly become scavenged by suspended particles that then tend to settle to the bottom, primarily in deep areas, such as berths and navigation channels. Several million cubic meters of sediments must be dredged annually to clear navigation channels. In the past, the dredged material was disposed in a designated ocean site. However, in1992, new testing procedures were implemented, and much of the harbor's dredged material was determined to be unsuitable for ocean placement. It is ironic that these restrictions came at a time when the quality of harbor sediments is improving, largely because of pollution controls implemented as a result of the Clean Water Act and other environmental measures put in place by government and industry. For example, the harbor-wide concentration of mercury has decreased to 0.7-0.8ppm, a level that is approaching the pre-industrial background level. Nevertheless, in certain areas of the harbor, there remain sufficiently high concentrations of contaminants to merit concern and to create serious problems for sponsors of dredging projects. Development of a basin-wide sediment management strategy is necessary to guide port decision-makers in their efforts to clean-up contaminant sources, to dredge regional waterways, and to ameliorate the contaminated sediment disposal problem. The backbone of this strategy is the integration of the data from an ongoing field monitoring and modeling program with a parallel investigation of watershed and airshed sources and sinks using industrial ecology methodology.
The Shuaiba coastal area (12.5 x 1.5 km) was examined for contamination with total organic carbon, volatile organic matter, total petroleum hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, vanadium, and zinc in sediment; their desorption by aqueous elution; and toxicity to aquatic biota. The pollutants were mainly accumulated in the upstream area facing Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery to Shuaiba harbour. Solid-phase Microtox assays showed severe toxicity, and the LC(50) was negatively correlated with most of the chemical parameters, suggesting that toxicity was the function of collective effects of the pollutants present in sediment. Sea water elutriation showed poor desorption of pollutants from sediment, and the elutriates were not found toxic to Microtox and brine shrimp larvae. Whole sediment suspension in sea water reduced the survival of fingerlings in fish bioassays. Action from Shuaiba Area Authority is required to reduce pollutant accumulation in identified depositional area on the Shuaiba coast by facilitating unrestricted water flow in the area and restricting pollutant discharge at source.
Discharges of contaminated drill cuttings have caused appreciable ecological change of the benthos adjacent to many oil and gas platforms in the North Sea. Many platforms have large piles of cuttings lying beneath them and these probably present the greatest potential hazard to the environment during platform decommissioning and removal. There is, however, a lack of consensus on which aspects of drill cuttings are responsible for the adverse ecological effects. This hinders risk assessment of management options. Here we report data on the toxicity of sediments from around the North West Hutton platform to the amphipod Corophium volutator, the polychaete Arenicola marina and the Microtox" acute test system. Sediment was acutely toxic to Corophium out as far as 600 m from the platform. Sediment from 100 m from the platform remained acutely toxic to Corophium when 3% contaminated sediment was mixed with clean sediment. A 10% dilution of this sediment also inhibited Arenicola feeding almost completely. Sediment elutriates did not inhibit Microtox light output, but organics extracted by dichloromethane were very toxic. Fifteen minute EC50 values were as low as 0.25 mg ml(-1) and were strongly correlated with hydrocarbon concentrations. Metal concentrations in whole sediments were correlated with their toxicity to Corophium but the relationship was much weaker when data on dilutions were included. Except at sites immediately adjacent to the platform, metal concentrations were well below ERL values from the literature, so were too low to explain sediment toxicity. Toxicity of sediments to Corophium was closely correlated with their hydrocarbon content, even when tests on dilutions were included in the analysis. We conclude that hydrocarbons are the most significant cause of toxicity in these sediments contaminated with oil based drill cuttings and that polar organics, sulphide. ammonia and other water soluble substances are of much lower significance. Applying OSPAR guidelines to our data on the toxicity of cuttings pile material to Corophium data would give a maximum allowable concentration of 0.03% in clean sediments. The Microtox data indicate that sediments from deeper in the pile would require an even greater dilution than this.
This study tested the hypothesis that swimming exacerbates ammonia toxicity in fish. Both sub-lethal and acute toxicity testing was conducted in a swim tunnel on swimming and resting coho salmon and rainbow trout, respectively. The sub lethal tests on coho salmon also considered the compartmentalization of ammonia within the fish. Coho salmon showed a significant linear decrease in U(crit) both with increasing water ammonia (0, 0.02, 0.04 and 0.08 mg per l NH3) and increasing plasma ammonia. Data collected included plasma pH and ammonia, muscle pH and ammonia and muscle membrane potential. Based on results found in these experiments it was concluded that the reduction in swimming performance was due to both metabolic challenges as well as depolarization of white muscle. Acute toxicity testing on swimming and resting rainbow trout revealed that swimming at (60% U(crit) or approximately 2.2 body lengths/s) decreased the LC50 level from 207+/-21.99 mg N per l in resting fish to 32.38+/-10.81. The LC50 for resting fish was significantly higher than that for swimming fish. The acute value set forth by the US EPA at the same pH is 36.1 mg N per l and may not protect swimming fish. In addition the effect of water hardness on ammonia toxicity was considered. It was found that increased water calcium ameliorates ammonia toxicity in fish living in high pH water.
The long-term fate of petroleum hydrocarbons in marsh sediments (West Falmouth, MA) contaminated in 1969 by the spill of the barge Florida was investigated. A 36-cm-long sediment core was collected in August 2000, and sediment extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC). The latter technique is capable of separating 1 order of magnitude more compounds than the former and was used to observe whether any compositional changes in the unresolved complex mixture (UCM) occurred. No evidence of petroleum residues was detected in the top 6 cm (0-6 cm) and the lower 8 cm (28-36 cm) of the core. However, the central sections 16-28 cm) were dominated by a UCM in the boiling range of n-C13-n-C25 alkanes, consistent with a No. 2 fuel oil source. The 12-14- and 14-16-cm sections had the highest concentrations of UCM approximately 8 mg g(-1)). These values are similar to concentrations observed shortly after the spill. Initial GC x GC analysis revealed that only the n-alkanes were completely degraded, and contrary to previous studies, pristane and phytane as well as numerous other branched alkanes are still present in the sediments. These results suggestthatatthis site hydrocarbon contamination will persist indefinitely in the sedimentary record.
The toxicity of petroleum hydrocarbons to marine aquatic organisms has been widely investigated; however, the effects on freshwater environments have largely been ignored. Selected biomarkers were measured in a freshwater species, the crimson-spotted rainbowfish (Melanotaenia fluviatilis). Fish were exposed to either a water-accommodated fraction (WAF) of crude oil or a dispersed crude oil water-accommodated fraction (DCWAF) for 3 days and were depurated for 14 days. Generally, biomarkers were altered following the short-term exposures but recovered after 14 days of depuration. Metabolic enzymes measured in gill tissue were citrate synthase and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). As a result of WAF and DCWAF exposures, citrate synthase and LDH activities increased. Enzyme activities returned to control levels following depuration. Subsequent to the WAF exposure, hepatic ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity levels were higher than controls and they returned to control levels during depuration. For the DCWAF exposure, EROD was induced by a TPH (total petroleum hydrocarbons) concentration of 14.5 mg/L; however, after depuration the 14.5 mg/L TPH group had lower EROD activity than did controls. There were no changes in liver- to body-weight ratios or the histopathological organization of gill or liver tissues. As the majority of biomarkers returned to control levels after 14 days of depuration, rainbowfish were able to recover from short-term exposures to crude oil and dispersed crude oil.
Sediment samples from the coastal area facing Shuaiba industrial area (15 x 1.5 km(2)) were examined for contamination with petroleum hydrocarbons. Aliphatic hydrocarbons in sediment extracts were characterized largely by unresolved complex mixture from nC(22)-nC(33). The sediment samples from the upstream area facing Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery to Shuaiba Harbor were heavily polluted with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) possibly due to the higher depth in the area created for a navigational channel to the harbor. PAHs at these locations exceeded the probable effect levels with reference to sediment quality guidelines.
The acute toxicity of unionized ammonia; nitrite and nitrate to the Indian major carp Catla catla (Hamilton) was determined using static and continuous flow through systems for 24 hours. The median lethal concentration (LC50) values for 24 h of ammonia (NH3-N), nitrite (NO2-N) and nitrate (NO3-N) were 0.045 mg/l, 120.84 mg/l and 1565.43 mg/l in static test respectively and were 0.036 mg/l, 117.43 mg/l and 1484.08 mg/l in continuous flow through test respectively.
A bacterial bioassay for assessment of waste-water toxicity Mechanism of toxicity for various compounds Acute and embryolarval toxicity of phenolic compounds to aquatic biota
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Industrial wastewater and solid waste Engineering
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A bacterial bioassay for assessment of waste-water toxicity Mechanism of toxicity for various compounds
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A basin-wide approach to dredged material management
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National environmental protection (effluent limitation) regulations. Federal Environmental Protection Agency
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