Contamination in Benthic Sediments from Equatorial Ecosystems Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques

Benson, N. U. and Asuquo, Francis E. and Williams, Akan B. and Essien, Joseph P. and Ekong, Cyril I and Akpabio, Otobong and Olajire, A. A. (2016) Contamination in Benthic Sediments from Equatorial Ecosystems Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques. PLOS ONE , 11 (6). pp. 1-19.

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Abstract

Trace metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb) concentrations in benthic sediments were analyzed through multi-step fractionation scheme to assess the levels and sources of contamination in estuarine, riverine and freshwater ecosystems in Niger Delta (Nigeria). The degree of contamination was assessed using the individual contamination factors (ICF) and global contamination factor (GCF). Multivariate statistical approaches including principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis and correlation test were employed to evaluate the interrelationships and associated sources of contamination. The spatial distribution of metal concentrations followed the pattern Pb>Cu>Cr>Cd>Ni. Ecological risk index by ICF showed significant potential mobility and bioavailability for Cu, Cu and Ni. The ICF contamination trend in the benthic sediments at all studied sites was Cu>Cr>Ni>Cd>Pb. The principal component and agglomerative clustering analyses indicate that trace metals contamination in the ecosystems was influenced by multiple pollution sources.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Trace metals, ecosystems, benthic sediments, Niger Delta, pollution
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences Q Science > QD Chemistry
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering, Science and Mathematics > School of Chemistry
Depositing User:	Mrs Aderonke Olufunke Asaolu
Date Deposited:	29 Aug 2017 07:19
Last Modified:	29 Aug 2017 07:19
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/8960

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