Determination of Heavy Metals in Fish and Water of White Nile During Watery Diarrhea Outbreak from June to July, 2017, Gezira Aba – Sudan

The objective of this study was to determine the concentrations of some heavy metal in fish (Clarias gariepinus) and water samples collected from White Nile at Gezira Aba. Heavy metals in fish and water samples were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) in accordance to standard analytical method. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis (ANOVA) to find out the significant difference of heavy metals in water body throughout the sampling period and in each organ of the sampled fish. The obtained results showed the average values Fe, Pb, Co, Cd in water samples were higher than WHO guide line limit for fresh water. The analysis of heavy metal in fish organs indicated that among eight heavy metals tested, Fe showed the highest concentration followed by Fe, Pb, Mn, Cu, Zn, Co, Cd and Cr. Results also showed that accumulation of heavy metals differed in the organs. Gill recorded high level of heavy metals followed by kidney, while liver contain lower level. It was concluded that levels of heavy metal in fish organs showed high concentration of detected heavy metals, while water samples give low heavy metals concentration. This implies that, the fish sample can be used to monitor heavy metals pollution level in the White Nile River. More safe and economic methods for elimination of heavy metals from contaminated waters are needed and continuous assessment of the level of pollution of Nile water and fish with heavy metals is also necessary