Assessment of Ectoparasites and Heavy Metal Concentrations in Hemichromis Fasciatus, Liza Falcipinnis and Sarotherodon Galileus

Abstract

Ectoparasites and heavy metal pollution pose health risks to both wild and aquaculture fish species. Here, we examine the ectoparasites of fish species (Hemichromis fasciatus, Liza falcipinnis and Sarotherodon galileus) from Abalama and Ilelema locations of the Buguma Creek, Rivers State, Nigeria, over a period of six months (February to July, 2020). Fish tissues (muscles, gills and gut) were also examined for heavy metals (Cr, Cd and Pb). Parasitological investigations were done following standard procedures, as well as the heavy metal analysis which was done using atomic absorption spectrophotometer after dry ashing-acid digestion. Two ectoparasites were isolated: Zeylanicobdella arugamensis from L. falcipinnis at both locations and Cymothoa exigua from H. fasciatus at Ilelema. In surface water, Cr concentration was 0.05). All fish species and tissues bioaccumulated appreciable concentrations of the heavy metals. Cr in fish tissues was within permissible limits, but all Cd and Pb values exceeded international permissible limits.