Rupert C. Akpaniteaku^1,, Okechukwu N. Okoye²

Waste discharge and emissions from mining and stone crushing industries in Ebonyi River basin were released to the environment by diffusion, and through the tributaries of the river. Pollution of terrestrial and aquatic habitats in the river basin with non essential metals and bioaccumulation in the aquatic organisms were suspected. Some heavy metals such as cadmium and lead are known to be very dangerous and potentially very harmful to life forms even when they are found in trace amount. An investigation was therefore conducted to determine concentration of chromium (Cr), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in intact male and female crabs in the month of May, to attempt to use them as bioindicators, and to ensure that they were safe for consumption. The results showed that Cr was not detected in the crab. The order of concentration dominance irrespective of sex was as follows: Cr < Pd < Cd. Bioaccumulation level for Pb and Cd were below the critical (<100) index limit. The crab (P. ebonyicum) could serve as indicator of heavy metal pollution in aquatic environment. They were however safe for consumption as the metal concentration was below FAO/WHO permissible limits. Regular investigation would enhance adequate protection of the aquatic habitats and steady supply of safe, edible organisms.

bioaccumulation, mud crab, heavy metal, Ebonyi state, river basin