DETERMINATION OF HERBICIDE RESIDUES AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF SOME SELECTED RIVERS IN TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

GIDADO, Joshua Danladi; WELTIME, O. Medjor; VIJINTI, Friday Cosmas

Authors

GIDADO, Joshua Danladi Department of Basic and Applied Science, College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Jalingo, Taraba State
WELTIME, O. Medjor Department of Chemical Sciences, Taraba State University.
VIJINTI, Friday Cosmas Department of Basic and Applied Science, College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Jalingo, Taraba State

Keywords:

Herbicides, Atrazine, Water Quality, Environmental Toxicology, Runoff.

Abstract

The intensification of agriculture in Nigeria has led to an increased reliance on agrochemicals, raising concerns about the contamination of freshwater resources. This study investigated the concentration of four herbicide residues Atrazine, 2,4-D, Paraquat, and Glyphosate and twenty-one physicochemical parameters across three key rivers in Taraba State: Lamurde, Mayo-Gwoi, and Sunkani. Water samples were analyzed and compared against World Health Organization and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality guidelines. Results indicated that Atrazine and 2,4-D levels in Lamurde and Mayo-Gwoi significantly exceeded permissible limits, while Paraquat also showed high concentrations in these areas. Physicochemical analysis revealed critically low Dissolved Oxygen levels (1.8–3.1mg/L) and exceptionally high turbidity (33.4–68.1NTU). Microbiological assessment confirmed high counts of E. coli and total coliforms. The calculated Water Quality Index classifies these water bodies as unsuitable for drinking. The findings underscore an urgent need for regulatory enforcement and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices to protect aquatic biodiversity and public health.