Occurrence and Spatial Distribution of Phthalate Esters in Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) from Asa River, Nigeria: A G-C-MS Analysis
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Introduction: Environmental contamination by plastic-derived chemicals is an increasing public health concern due to their persistence and potential biological effects in aquatic ecosystems. Phthalate esters, widely used as plasticizers, can enter aquatic environments through industrial discharge, domestic waste, and agricultural runoff, where they may accumulate in aquatic organisms.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the occurrence of phthalate esters in Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) collected from three locations (upstream, midstream, and downstream) along Asa River, Ilorin, Nigeria. Fish samples were analyzed for six phthalate compounds, dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), butylbenzyl phthalate (BBP), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and di-n-octyl phthalate (DnOP), using Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Concentrations were expressed in micrograms per kilogram (µg/kg) wet weight.
Results: All six phthalates were detected in fish tissue across the three sampling locations. Total phthalate concentrations ranged from 0.554 to 1.196 µg/kg, with higher levels generally observed in downstream samples, indicating increasing contamination along the river course. Dimethyl phthalate (DMP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) were among the more prominent compounds detected. Although concentrations were below established regulatory limits, their presence confirms contamination of the aquatic environment and potential for bioaccumulation.
Conclusion: The detection of phthalates in Tilapia from Asa River indicates ongoing input of plastic-related pollutants from anthropogenic sources. While current concentrations are relatively low, continuous exposure through fish consumption may pose long-term ecological and public health risks. Regular monitoring and improved waste management practices are recommended to mitigate further contamination.
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