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Examining the Interaction Between Microplastics and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Okulu Aleto River, Eleme: Environmental Implications
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Researchers found high levels of microplastics and toxic chemicals called PAHs in a heavily industrialized Nigerian river, especially near factory wastewater discharge points. The two pollutants tend to travel together, meaning plastic bits may act as carriers that ferry toxic chemicals into the water and into animals like crabs and prawns, raising concerns about these pollutants moving up the food chain to humans who eat seafood from contaminated waters.
Microplastics (MPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are emerging contaminants of increasing concern due to their persistence, toxicity, and synergistic interactions in aquatic environments, particularly in heavily industrialized regions like the Niger Delta. This study aimed to assess the concentration, distribution, and interaction of MPs and PAHs in water, sediment, and aquatic biota of the Okulu Aleto River in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria. Using an experimental, multidisciplinary approach, samples were collected across 18 sampling stations categorized into six locations: Upstream, Midstream, Downstream, Effluent, Control 1, and Control 2. Field sampling techniques were employed to obtain water and sediment samples, which were analysed in the laboratory to isolate, identify, and quantify MPs and PAHs. Statistical and geospatial techniques were used to evaluate spatial trends and pollutant interactions. Results indicated elevated concentrations of MPs, with sediment samples recording up to 222,222 µg/g and water samples up to 60,000 µg/ml, particularly in the Effluent, Midstream, and Downstream locations, where industrial discharge is prevalent. PAH concentrations followed a similar spatial trend, with a strong positive correlation (r = 0.87) observed between MP and PAH levels, supporting the hypothesis that MPs serve as vectors for hydrophobic pollutants. Biota analysis revealed significant MP ingestion by benthic organisms such as prawns and crabs, highlighting the potential for trophic transfer and ecological impact. The findings underscore the urgent need for regulatory enforcement on industrial effluent discharge, improved waste management practices, public education campaigns, and investment in sustainable, eco-friendly production systems to mitigate environmental and health risks in the Niger Delta region.
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Researchers investigated the presence and abundance of microplastics in benthic organisms collected from coastal rivers in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, documenting contamination levels in organisms from these ecologically significant waterways.
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