Evaluation of irrigation water trapped by Typha domingensis for heavy metals in Hadejia River, Nigeria

Abstract

A study was conducted to assess heavy metals content of irrigation water trapped by Typha domingensis and water away from T. domingensis in Hadejia River in northeast Nigeria. Water samples were collected from two irrigation points in Hadin, Madaci and Kadira villages. The two samples were analyzed for heavy metals; Copper, Lead, Zinc, Iron, Manganese, Cadmium, and Chromium by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Heavy metals were found lesser in water away from T. domingensis as compared with water trapped by T. domingensis: Copper (0.012 mg/l and 0.048 mg/l), Lead (0.0024 mg/l and 0.0028 mg/l), Manganese (0.453 mg/l and 0.058 mg/l), and Chromium (0.013 mg/l and 0.0167 mg/l) were found in normal concentrations in both samples. Iron (2.05mg/l) and Cadmium (0.11mg/l) were slightly higher in water trapped by Typha grass and Zinc found in low concentrations in both samples (0.67mg/l). It was concluded that the levels of heavy metals concentration in both samples were found to be within the range of NAFDAC and WHO standard which can be use for irrigation purpose as well as other human activities without hazardous effect. Recommendation for future studies is made to determine changes in the concentration of heavy metals in Hadejia River for the well-being of communities and biota.

Keywords: Heavy metals, irrigation, River Hadejia, Typha domingensis, water