Evaluation of physico-chemical parameters and heavy metal concentrations in muscles of Synodontis courteti and Mormyrus macrophthalmus from lower River Benue, Ibi, Taraba, Nigeria

Heavy metals concentrations in muscles of Synodontis courteti and Mormyrus macrophthalmus from lower River Benue, Ibi, Taraba state was examined. The heavy concentration the species under consideration studied with atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Bulk Model 210VGP scientific equipment. Results obtained confirmed occurrence levels following (lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn) two commercially important investigated. Recorded values S. M. overtime showed metal ranking profile Pb >Cd >Cr >Cu >Zn > Mn were higher for than macrophthalmus. Cadmium (Cd) Chromium (Cr) variation (p>0.05) both November December, exception October. less location (p, Mn>, Pb>, Cu>, Cd>, Cr. Between upstream downstream. However all recorded within safe limit Pb, Cr, Cd, Cu, Mn, Zn Muscles below WHO/FAO FEPA recommended limits fish fishery products. Lead (Pb) low throughout study period except month October which Though Cd Cr Values permissible by FAO fish/fisheries This also reported on some physico-chemical parameter importance (temperature, pH, D.O., Electrical conductivity (EC) TDS,) they found to be acceptable sustainable survival growth. need continuous monitoring conservation fisheries resources Benue waters content therein cannot overemphasize.