We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Preliminary investigation of the spatio-seasonal distribution of microplastics in the surface water of River Benue, North Central Nigeria
Summary
This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of microplastic pollution in Nigeria's River Benue, collecting surface water samples during both rainy and dry seasons and analyzing them with FTIR spectroscopy. Microplastic abundance was higher during the dry season, with particle sizes of 1.5–3 mm most common — a range that raises particular concern because fish can easily ingest them. Risk indices indicated moderate to severe pollution at multiple sites, correlating with commerce, transportation, and waste disposal activities along the riverbanks. These baseline findings are crucial for developing water management strategies in an understudied African river system.
Rivers are critical pathways for microplastic (MP) pollution, yet data remain limited on MP presence in Nigeria's freshwater systems. This study presents the first comprehensive assessment of MP occurrence and associated risks in the River Benue, one of Nigeria's most important rivers. Surface water samples were collected in September 2023 (rainy season) and January 2024 (dry season), pre-treated with NaCl and H₂O₂ for density separation and wet peroxide oxidation, and analysed using FTIR spectroscopy and SEM-EDS. MP abundance was higher along the southern bank, ranging from 0 to 11 items L in the dry season and 0 to 9 items L in the rainy season. The lower rainy-season concentrations were attributed to improved hydraulic conditions, which enhanced dilution and downstream transport. Particle sizes ranged from 0.5 to 5 mm, with the 1.5-3 mm fraction being most abundant, raising concerns due to their bioavailability. Risk assessment revealed contamination factors of 2-22 and pollution load indices of 2-4.69, indicating sites with moderate to elevated risks. The PLI (3.23) confirmed severe pollution across the river, potentially warranting remediation. MP distribution patterns are strongly associated with anthropogenic activities, including commerce, transportation, and waste disposal. This study provides crucial baseline data on MP pollution in River Benue and supports the development of targeted management strategies. For a more comprehensive understanding, future investigations should explore the collection of larger sample volumes and asses contamination in the sediments and biota. These findings contribute to global efforts in understanding freshwater MP pollution, particularly in understudied tropical river systems.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Assessment of Microplastic Contamination in Surface Water of River Benue in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria
Researchers sampled surface water at five sites along the Benue River in Makurdi, Nigeria, and found microplastic contamination at all locations, with concentrations varying depending on proximity to urban and industrial activities such as markets, rice mills, and bridges. FTIR analysis identified the polymer types present, and the work provides baseline contamination data for a major West African river that has received little prior attention. The findings highlight that microplastic pollution in African freshwater systems is real and measurable, and calls for expanded monitoring across the continent.
RETRACTED: Assessment of Microplastics in Water and Sediment of River Benue Troughs, Benue State, Nigeria
This study investigated microplastic presence and ecological risk in the River Benue in Nigeria using FTIR spectroscopy, analyzing water and sediment samples. Microplastics were detected in both matrices at concentrations posing potential ecological risks, providing baseline data for a major African river system that has received limited attention in the global microplastic literature. Note: this paper has since been retracted.
Compositional Profiles and Spatial Distribution of Microplastics Across Three Selected Rivers in Rivers State, Nigeria
Researchers investigated microplastic contamination across three rivers in Rivers State, Nigeria, using FTIR and GC-MS to identify and quantify the particles. They found microplastics present in all sampled locations, with polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene among the most common polymers detected. The study provides baseline data on the composition and spatial distribution of microplastic pollution in Nigerian freshwater systems.
Environmental Risk Assessment of Microplastics in Water and Sediments along Ibi Troughs North-East Nigeria
Researchers conducted an environmental risk assessment of microplastics in water and sediments along the Ibi River in northeast Nigeria, using FTIR to identify polymer types and assessing ecological risk scores across five sampling sites.
Microplastics Contamination of Surface Water and Selected Fish Species in Ovia River, Southern Nigeria
Researchers examined microplastic contamination in surface water and two fish species (Notopterus afer and Heterobranchus bidorsalis) from Ovia River in Southern Nigeria, using SEM, FTIR, and EDX to characterize particle size distribution, polymer composition, and elemental contamination. The study provides baseline data on microplastic pollution in a West African river system and documents uptake of plastic particles by commercially important fish species.