Biomonitoring of heavy metals pollution in the university of Lagos, Akoka campus environment using the moss <i>Dicranium scorparium</i> Hedw

Abstract

ABSTRACT
The level of atmospheric heavy metal deposition in University of
Lagos, Akoka campus was investigated using the moss Dicranum
scorparium Hedw. Moss samples were collected from unplastered
perimeter walls and rock surfaces at ten sampling sites labeled AJ: UBA Park (A), Ransome Kuti (B). Makama Hall (C), Faculty of
Law (D), Moremi Car Park (E), Medical Centre (F), Ozoluwa BQs
(G), High Rise Buildings (H), Honors Hall (I), Lagoon Front (J). A
control sampling was done at First Estate, Amuwo-Odofin LGA.
The concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni),
Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn) were determined using Atomic
Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) Perkin Elmer AA 800. The
results obtained confirmed the presence of heavy metal in this
order Zn > Pb > Cd > Cu > Ni. The concentration of Zn, Cd and Pb
were greater than the FME and UNEP threshold limiting values.
The analysis of the anthropogenic influence of the pollutants on the
environment revealed that Zn (4.24mg/L) despite its highest
abundance is a moderate contaminant in the study locations.
Contamination factor (CF) suggests that locations B, D, F, G and J
are seriously contaminated (C5) while locations A, C, E, H, and I
are extremely contaminated (C6). The index of geo-accumulation
revealed that all the studied locations are in the Igeo7 category
indicating extremely pollution with the assayed metals. The
difference in the occurrence of anthropogenic activities was seen
to be the major factor responsible for the variations in the
concentration of heavy metals accumulated by the mosses.