Assessing the Health Risks of Emerging Trace Elements in Fish, Bobo Croaker (Pseudotolithus elongatus) from Buguma Creek, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the health risks associated with trace elements in Bobo Croaker (Pseudotolithus elongatus) from Buguma Creek, Southern Nigeria. Fish samples were conducted monthly from May to August 2023, and muscle tissues were analyzed for potential health risks posed by elevated levels of hazardous metals. Heavy metal concentrations of As, Fe, Zn, Pb, and Cd were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Cd was found in the EDIs of heavy metals in P. elongatus from three stations for adults and children, with minimal variation between stations. For adults, there were no significant discrepancies, but for children, there were substantial differences, especially at Stations 2 and 3. The EDI value for Zn varies significantly across all stations, with the highest value being recorded at Station 3. Fe showed notable differences between stations, while Cu and As had consistent EDI values. The study reveals potential health risks for both adults and children due to heavy metals, with Cd, Pb, and Zn exposure exceeding safe thresholds for both adults and children, while Pb and As have values below safe thresholds, indicating negligible cancer risk. The study calls for further evaluations and mitigation strategies, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and acceptable exposure limits, particularly at Stations 2 and 3, to protect vulnerable populations. HI values surpass 1 for both age groups, indicating potential health risks from trace elements in P. elongatus, particularly for Cadmium. The study highlights the potential health risks from trace elements in P. elongatus. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and acceptable exposure limits, particularly at Stations 2 and 3, to protect vulnerable populations.