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Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of Microplastics in fishes, water and sediment from Nigerian Inland Rivers during the Rainy Season
Summary
Researchers found that heavy rains wash more tiny plastic bits into Nigerian rivers, and these plastics build up in fish—especially in their guts—with one river (Benue) showing the highest contamination. While the amount of plastic people would actually consume by eating this fish was lower than global averages, scientists are still concerned because microplastics can carry harmful chemicals, meaning long-term risks may be underestimated by just counting plastic particles alone.
This study investigates the distribution, characteristics, and potential human health risks of microplastics (MPs) in water, sediments, and fish from seven Nigerian inland rivers during the rainy season of 2023. MP abundance was significantly influenced by seasonal hydrology, with higher concentrations observed in fish (up to 58 ± 0.58 particles/g in River Benue) and water (up to 48 ± 8.12 particles/50 mL in River Argungu) compared to dry season levels, attributable to enhanced runoff and mobilization of land-based plastics. Sediments showed reduced MP levels during the rainy season due to resuspension and downstream transport. Fibres dominated in fish (48.5%) and sediments (49.3%), while fragments prevailed in water (60.3%). Fifteen polymer types were identified via FTIR, with polystyrene exhibiting bioaccumulation in fish (27.8% in gills to 52.4% in guts), polypropylene prevalent across compartments, and ethylene vinyl acetate dominant in water (68%). Principal component analysis revealed distinct compartmental associations, with fish and sediments clustering together, indicating transfer pathways. Estimated daily intake (EDI) through fish and water consumption was low, with fish as the primary exposure route and River Benue posing the highest risk. Although EDI values were substantially below global estimates, the role of MPs as vectors for chemical contaminants underscores potential long-term health concerns. These findings highlight the exacerbating effect of the rainy season on MP pollution in Nigerian freshwater systems and emphasize the need for targeted mitigation strategies.