Bioaccumulation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Histopathological Alterations in African Knife Fish, Gymnarchus niloticus (Cuvier 1829) From Epe Lagoon, Lagos,Nigeria

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of organic compounds that pose significant environmental and health concerns due to their toxicity, mutagenic properties, and potential carcinogenicity. These compounds are prevalent in various aquatic environments, including the Epe Lagoon, where their presence raises concerns about the safety and sustainability of local seafood resources. This study focuses on the bioaccumulation of PAHs in Gymnarchus niloticus, a commercially important fish species in the Epe Lagoon, which serves as a critical food source for the surrounding communities. The research involved the collection of Gymnarchus niloticus samples from multiple sites within the Epe Lagoon. These samples were subjected to rigorous analysis using chromatographic techniques and hispathological examination of fish tissues and multimeter horiba to quantify the concentration of both low and high molecular weight PAHs within the fish tissues and physiochemical parmeters. The findings revealed a higher propensity for bioaccumulation of high molecular weight PAHs, particularly Phenanthrene and Naphthalene, compared to their lower molecular weight counterparts. The results indicate that the levels of PAHs in Gymnarchus niloticus are significant, posing potential health risks to consumers who rely on this species as a staple in their diet. The study underscores the need for continuous monitoring of PAH levels in the Epe Lagoon and calls for the implementation of appropriate mitigation strategies to protect both the aquatic ecosystem and the health of the local population. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence on the environmental impact of PAHs and highlights the urgency of addressing contamination in vital water bodies like the Epe Lagoon.