Authors : E.C. Okafor and G.E. Nwajei
Abstract: Heavy metals in water and Macarange hendelotic from Ora River by the Nigerian cement factory`s location, were determined. Metals such as Na, K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Fe, Cu, Pb and Cd were analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Atomic Absorption/Emission spectrometer 200-A). The results showed that lead concentrations were below detection limit in water samples whereas all the metals analysed in Macaranga hendelotic were all detected. Metals (Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd) concentration in Macaranga hendelotic in this study were within those levels obtained by scientist from Avicema Marine community in Shenzhen, China. Statistical analysis using spearman rank order correlation showed that Ca, Mg, K, Zn, Fe and Pb were not significant. Only Cd showed positive relationship whereas, Na and Cu were inversely correlated. Monthly variations of metal concentrations were recorded. The results further showed that Macaranga hendelotic is an adequate biological indicator of heavy metal in Nigerian Rivers.
E.C. Okafor and G.E. Nwajei , 2007. Metal Contents in Water and Aquatic Plant (Macaranga Heudelotic) from Ora River Around Nigerian Cement Factory, Nkalagu. Research Journal of Biological Sciences, 2: 85-88.