INVESTIGATION OF HEAVY METALS POLLUTION IN ELEBELE RIVER USING WATER SPINACH (IPOMOEA AQUATICA) AS BIOINDICATOR

This study investigates the contamination of the Elebele River in Bayelsa State by heavy metals, using water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) as a bioindicator. Samples of river water and water spinach were collected from a control site and a sample location, and analyzed for concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and iron (Fe) using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (FAAS). Results revealed elevated concentrations of heavy metals, with chromium showing the highest levels in water (up to 21.715 mg/L), while iron had the highest concentration in plant tissues (up to 3.218 mg/kg in roots). The highest accumulation of lead was found in the roots at the sample location (9.647 mg/kg). Cadmium was present in all samples, though at relatively lower concentrations. The findings demonstrate that Ipomoea aquatica effectively bioaccumulates heavy metals, especially in roots, highlighting its potential as a bioindicator for aquatic pollution. The levels of Pb, Cr, and Fe exceeded international safety thresholds (WHO/NAFDAC), indicating significant pollution and suggesting that water and edible plants from the Elebele River pose environmental and public health risks. Remediation and continuous monitoring of the river are strongly recommended.