MICROPLASTIC INGESTION BY FRESHWATER FISH FROM TAGWAI LAKE MINNA NIGER STATE
Abstract
This study investigates microplastic ingestion by freshwater fishes (clarias gariepinus, silluriformes, clupea harengus) under varying water conditions, examining pH (6.5-8.5), temperature (15°C-25°C), total hardness (50-200 mg/L), and dissolved oxygen (5-10 mg/L). Fish were exposed to microplastics (1-5 mm)Increased ingestion at pH 7.5-8.0, 20°C-22°C, 100-150 mg/L hardness, and 6-8 mg/L dissolved oxygen. Microplastic abundance in tissues: 45% in gut, 27% in gills, 15% in flesh, and 13% in intestines Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed plastic presence. Histopathological examination showed gut inflammation, epithelial damage, and liver alterations. Statistical analysis (ANOVA, Tukey's test) revealed significant correlations between water parameters and microplastic ingestion. Our findings highlight the impact of environmental factors on microplastic ingestion and distribution in freshwater fish tissues. This research informs mitigation strategies for reducing plastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems. Methods Experimental design: 12 tanks with varying water parameters. Microplastic exposure: 1-5 mm plastic particles. Fish sampling: 10 fish/tank, dissected for tissue analysis. Analysis techniques: FTIR, and statistical modeling.
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