SOURCES, DISTRIBUTION AND RISK ANALYSIS OF HEAVY METALS IN SEDIMENTS OF JEDDO COASTAL BODY, DELTA STATE

This study investigated the concentration, spatial distribution, potential sources, and ecological risks of selected heavy metals such as Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), and Nickel (Ni) in the sediments of the Jeddo coastal body, Delta State, Nigeria. Sediment samples were collected from three key locations: agricultural zone, residential area, and dredging site. Physicochemical parameters and nutrient concentrations (ammonia and nitrates) were also analyzed to understand the pollution index in the water body. Laboratory analyses were conducted using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), and the results were interpreted through statistical techniques including ANOVA, correlation matrices, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Findings revealed that all metals were present in varying concentrations across stations, with Station C (dredging area) recording the highest cumulative metal load, particularly for Nickel. Zinc and Lead exhibited a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.52), suggesting common anthropogenic sources, likely industrial effluents or urban runoff. PCA also identified associations between metal concentrations and environmental indicators like electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids. Despite spatial variability, all metal concentrations fell below the Threshold Effect Concentration (TEC) guidelines, indicating minimal immediate ecological risk to aquatic biota as well as the local inhabitants. The study highlights the importance of routine environmental monitoring and strengthened pollution control, especially in areas experiencing industrial and urban pressure. if pollution load to this Sample region is not controlled, it could potent contamination threat to benthic organisms along the food web.