PROTOZOA ASSOCIATED WITH HARVESTED RAIN WATER SYSTEM IN AGBOR

Rainwater harvesting is a critical alternative water source in Agbor, Nigeria, where access to clean water remains a challenge. However, microbial contamination, particularly by pathogenic protozoa, poses significant public health risks. This study assessed the prevalence and protozoan contaminants in harvested rainwater systems across five locations in Agbor (Idumesah, Ewuru, Ozanogogo, Aliagwai, and Alishime). A cross-sectional design was employed, with five rainwater samples collected from household storage systems. Samples were processed using vacuum filtration, centrifugation, and microscopic examination with Lugol’s iodine and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining for protozoan identification. Results revealed varying contamination levels: Ewuru exhibited the highest protozoan diversity (6 organisms), including Meridion (4), nematode larva (1), and Lacrymariaolor (1). Contaminants in ozanogogo were mainly unidentified helminth and nematode larvae. Aliagwai and Alishime had Helminth egg and Meridion, respectively, while Idumesah recorded no contamination. Taxonomically, Meridion and nematode larvae each constituted 25% of identified organisms, while Lacrymariaolor accounted for 12.5% each. The presence of nematode larvae underscores potential health risks. Poor maintenance of storage systems, environmental hygiene, and lack of treatment were key contamination drivers. The study highlights the urgent need for improved rainwater management practices, including filtration, disinfection, and public health education. These findings contribute to understanding microbial risks in tropical rainwater systems and inform policies for safer water use in Agbor and similar regions.