EFFECTS OF CASSAVA FACTORY EFFLUENTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT USING ROOT TIPS OF ALLIUM CEPA (ALLIUM CEPA TEST)

ABSTRACT This study assessed the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of cassava (Manihot esculenta) processing effluents on Allium cepa root tips, utilizing the onion root chromosomal assay as a bioindicator of environmental toxicity. Root tips of Allium cepa were exposed to varying concentrations of cassava factory effluents (10%, 8%, 6%, 4% and 2%), and cytological analysis was carried out to observe mitotic activity and chromosomal behavior under a compound light microscope. Microscopic images revealed significant mitotic inhibition in treated samples compared to the control. Observable effects included poor chromosomal visibility in several slides due to suboptimal staining and squashing, thickened root tip tissues with indistinct cell boundaries, and absence of clearly defined mitotic stages. In some well-prepared slides, irregularities such as poor metaphase alignment and condensed chromosomal material were noted, indicating cytotoxic stress and potential chromosomal aberrations. These findings suggest that cassava effluents possess toxic constituents that negatively affect cellular division and chromosomal integrity in Allium cepa, highlighting their potential genotoxic impact on biological systems. The study affirms the relevance of Allium cepa assay as a sensitive model for environmental monitoring and calls for improved waste management strategies in cassava processing to mitigate environmental and public health risks