Distribution and partitioning of trace metals in sediments of the lower reaches of the New Calabar River,Port Harcourt,Nigeria

The distribution of trace metals in sediments of the lower reaches of the New Calabar River, Nigeria was evaluated togetherwith the partitioning of their chemical species between fivegeochemical phases. Samplings were made in five zones at the lower reaches of the New Calaber River. All the trace metals were determined by AAS after selective chemical extractions andconcentrations given in g gm^-1 (dry weight basis). The average totalconcentrations found for trace metals in the sediment were (mean ± rsd.) Pb: 41.6 ± 0.29, Zn: 31.60 ± 0.42, Cd: 12.80 ± 0.92, Co: 92 ± 0.25, Cu: 25.5 ± 0.65 and Ni: 3.2 ± 0.25. Maxima and minima concentrations are inconsistent with previous studies in other rivers of this region. Spatial distribution revealed that the sources of trace metals into theriver appeared to be of non-point. Five contamination indices were applied in studying the partitioning of the trace metals inthe sediment. These indices provided bases for ascertaining the potential environmental risk of trace metals in the river system.The results denote high partition levels in the more mobile andmore dangerous phases.