Distribution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Surface Water and Fishes in Bodo/Bonny River Nigeria

Several industrial activities around the Niger Delta region have contributed to widespread contamination of marine ecosystems with organochlorine compounds (OCs), petroleum products that are a source polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These pollutants tend be persistent in environment and also often highly toxic biota. The study was therefore, aimed at determining concentrations organic (PAHS) Bodo/Bonny coastal waters their effect on ecosystems. This is exacerbated by risks posed (PAHs) oil spilled environments. Surface water, sediment fish samples were collected from different sampling stations along river analyzed using standard analytical methods. Sampling surface water done Link pond which served as control. results value TPH ranged 0.31 40.85 mg/l, PAHs range 2.06 2.73 mg/l BTEX 0.043 0.081 mg/l. Total Petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) values obtained above DPR permissible Limit 20 all stations. However, individual show Benzo(a) anthracene had highest concentration especially sampled. Also showed presence carcinogenic tissues. still poses danger if accumulation take place over long period time. this exceeded WHO quality criteria for drinking, aquatic life support recreation. reveals River under pollution threat underscore need early remediation adverse health defects prevented.