Heavy metals accumulation and ecological risk assessment in asa river sediments, Ilorin-Nigeria, dredged sediment toxicity potential

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin, P.M.B. 1515, Kwara, Nigeria

Abstract

The reuse of dredged river sediments for agricultural purposes offers a sustainable solution despite environmental risks. This study investigated selected heavy metals content in Asa River sediments and assessed potential environmental risks. Samples were collected from four locations along the Asa River and analyzed using total metal, pore water, and acid leachate procedures. Data obtained were subjected to statistical processing using descriptive and inferential methods. The total metal concentrations were evaluated against established threshold limits for each element. A two-way ANOVA was performed to determine significant variations in elemental concentrations across different sampling locations and extraction methods. Using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, metal concentrations were found to be below permissible levels according to Sediment Quality Guideline (ISQG) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sediment quality guidelines: Cd (0.080-0.102), Ni (0.049-0.499), Cr (0.113-0.183), Pb (0.581-1.982), Cu (9.02-9.64), Co (0.113-0.183), Zn (0.250-0.680), Mn (0.90-1.42), and Fe (65.4-94.1) mg/kg. Significant positive correlations were found among metals, indicating complicated identical behavior during transport. Pore water analysis indicated potential bioavailability and toxicity concerns for Pb, Cd, and Ni. These findings highlight the need for careful assessment and management to minimize environmental risks associated with sediment reuse.

Keywords

Main Subjects

SVU-International Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 24 June 2025

Files

Share

How to cite

Statistics