Assessment of Microbial Load and Heavy Metal Contamination of Water Snail (L. truncatula) from Ogbia Rivers, Niger Delta Nigeria

Abstract: This study evaluated microbial load, physicochemical characteristics, and heavy metal contamination in water snail samples from Otuoke, Imiringi, and Nembe in the Ogbia Local Government Area and Nembe town. The findings reveal that the pH values for Otuoke, Imiringi, and Nembe were 6.0, 6.0, and 7.0, respectively, with Otuoke and Imiringi displaying normal pH levels, while Nembe presented a little elevated pH. Salinity levels measured 0.12 ppt, 1.28 ppt, and 11.4 ppt, with Nembe water exhibiting the greatest salt concentration. The overall microbial counts, encompassing heterotrophic bacteria, staphylococci, and enterobacteria, varied from 5.5×10³ to 6.7×10⁴ CFU in Otuoke, 2.15×10⁵ to 4.95×10⁴ CFU in Imiringi, and 8.5×10³ to 7.6×10⁴ CFU in Nembe. Imiringi demonstrated the highest microbiological burden, indicating a potential public health hazard linked to the intake of water snails from this site. Water samples revealed the presence of heavy metals, specifically lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu). The research isolated and identified four gram-positive and six gram-negative bacterial strains. According to these data, it is advised that water snails from Otuoke and Nembe, exhibiting reduced microbial contamination, are suitable for ingestion if adequately processed and hygienically prepared. In contrast, water snails from Imiringi should be ingested with caution because to elevated microbial load, and suitable hygienic precautions should be implemented to mitigate health hazards. This study offers significant insights for ecosystem resilience and conservation methodologies. Keywords: Microbial load, Water snails, Heavy metal contamination, Physio-chemical parameters, Public health risk Cite: Ariyo, A. B.(2025): Assessment of Microbial Load and Heavy Metal Contamination of Water Snail (L. truncatula) from Ogbia Rivers, Niger Delta Nigeria: Journal of Advances in Natural Science and Engineering Volume 1(1): Pages 83 – 90 : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18218007