Physico-Chemical Parameters of Water in Okpoka Creek Upper Reaches of Bonny Estuary, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the physico-chemical parameters of water in Okpoka Creek, Upper Bonny Estuary, Rivers State, Nigeria, with the aim of evaluating the water quality status of the creek in relation to increasing anthropogenic activities. The creek is exposed to various human activities including dredging, sand mining, waste disposal, boat transportation, washing, and sewage discharge, which may adversely affect aquatic life and ecosystem stability. Four sampling stations namely Amadi, Fiemie, Abuloma, and Okuru were selected for the study. Water samples were collected monthly and analyzed for temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), salinity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and biological oxygen demand (BOD) using standard procedures and laboratory methods. Statistical analysis was carried out using one way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD at 95% confidence level. Results showed that temperature ranged from 29.30–31.40°C, while pH ranged from 4.40–8.94. Turbidity varied between 3.06 and 20.76 NTU, DO ranged from 7.31–8.13 mg/L, and BOD ranged from 4.02–12.60 mg/L. Salinity, EC, and TDS also showed moderate variations among stations and months. Seasonal fluctuations influenced most parameters, with higher turbidity and BOD values observed during the rainy season. However, there were no significant spatial differences among the stations. The findings indicate that Okpoka Creek is moderately impacted by human activities, though most parameters remained within tolerable limits for aquatic organisms. Continuous monitoring and proper environmental management are recommended to prevent further deterioration of the creek ecosystem.