ISSN : 2663-2187

Assessment of Heavy-Metal Occurrence in Underground Irrigation Water and Amaranthus Retroflexus Vegetable in Jimeta, Yola Northeastern Nigeria.

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Timon, Freedom 1, Preuksa, Narumon1, Khawmee, Khawmee1.
ยป doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.5.2024. 10799-10811

Abstract

Due to their persistence and non-biodegradability, toxic heavy metals (THM) like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and iron (Fe) contaminate agricultural soils and crops like garden vegetables, grains, and fruits. Therefore, this research aims to assess the concentrations of the heavy metals in underground water and determine the extent to which they constitute a threat to the cultivated Amaranthus Retroflexus. Seasonal data on water and vegetables were collected from the study area in November 2019 to March 2020 and November 2020 to March 2021 at the irrigated farm site, in Jimeta, Yola Northeastern, Nigeria. The water samples were collected from boreholes in the study area fifteen (15) water samples were taken for analysis. The laboratory test revealed that heavy metals (AS, AL, B, Cd and Zn), recorded in the underground water had an average below detection thresholds. However, Cr and Fe records show an average above detection threshold level of 7.3mg/l and 9.0mg/l respectively. These high figures were associated with the location of an e-waste dump site, which is close to the water sources. The metal transfer factor (TF) was highest in Fe, followed by Mn > Cr. Heavy metal concentrations in Amaranthus Retroflexus, recorded across seasons were within allowable maximum ranges sets by FAO and WHO, and as such are safe for human consumption. The study concluded by recommending the need for further studies on the impact of e-waste site location on the heavy metal content of the surrounding soil.

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