Assessment of Heavy Metals in ClariasgariepinusOrgans (Gills, Liver and Muscles) at Kiri Reservoir, Adamawa State, Nigeria

A study on assessment of heavy metals was carried out fortnight using standard methods for the period of six months. Bioaccumulations of heavy metals including Cadmium, Zinc, Iron, Copper, Manganese and Lead (Cd, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn and Pb) in catfish (Clariasgariepinus) organs (gills, liver and muscle) were investigated. Zinc, Iron, Copper and Manganese (Zn, Fe, Cu, and Mn) at station A, B and C recorded concentrations (0.531mg/kg, 7.07mg/kg, 0.489mg/kg, & 0.177mg/kg) within the international permissible limits in fish organs. Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) recorded concentrations (0.099mg/kg &0.917mg/kg) above the international permissible limit in fish organs. Gills and liver of Clariasgariepinus contained the highest concentration of most of the detected heavy metals, while muscles appeared to be the last preferred site for the bioaccumulation of heavy metals. The edible part (Muscle) of Clariasgariepinus showed higher levels of Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) at the study area. This may be due to bioaccumulation over a period of time in the muscles of Clariasgariepinus.