Evaluation of Organochlorine Pesticides in River Galma Sediments: Passive Sampling Approach
Keywords:
Organochlorine Pesticides, Passive Sampling, Sediment Contamination, River Galma, Ecological Risk Assessment, Agricultural RunoffAbstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are persistent organic pollutants that pose significant risks to environmental and human health. This study assessed the spatial distribution, sources, and ecological risks of OCPs in sediments of the River Galma, northern Nigeria, using passive sampling with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) membranes. Samplers were deployed at ten locations along the river, representing diverse land-use practices, to determine the freely dissolved concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites, and chlordane-related compounds. Concentrations of OCPs varied markedly among locations with total OCP concentrations ranging from 5,355.32 ng/L to 8,231.62 ng/L, with the highest levels recorded at sites influenced by intensive agriculture and industrial discharges. Diagnostic isomer and metabolite ratios indicated recent inputs of lindane alongside historical DDT residues. Multivariate analyses (principal component and factor analysis) attributed 74% of the variance to widespread agricultural sources, particularly HCH isomers, while localized industrial inputs were linked to hexachlorobenzene and chlordane derivatives. Ecological risk assessment identified ?-HCH as the compound of greatest concern, indicating a high potential risk to aquatic organisms at the most contaminated sites. These findings highlight the need for stricter enforcement of pesticide bans, targeted remediation of hotspots, adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, and long-term monitoring. This is the first application of passive sampling for OCP monitoring in northern Nigeria, and it provides useful insight into contamination sources and degradation pathways.
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