Abstract

The concentrations of cadmium and lead were determined in seven fish species from the Azuabie creek in the upper Bonny estuary of the Niger Delta, which is associated with industrial and abattoir discharges. Cadmium concentrations ranged from 0.01 to 0.06 mg/kg and show no significant difference between species. The concentrations of lead (ranging from 0.104 to 0.310 mg/kg) were significantly higher in Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus and Gobius niger than other species examined. Also, lead was significantly higher than cadmium. The metal concentrations obtained were within values that may be considered safe for human consumption.

Key words: Fish, cadmium, lead, estuary, Niger Delta.