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Unsustainable Exploitation of Freshwater Wetland Turtles and Tortoises in Central Niger Delta
Elijah Ige Ohimain,
Dimie Otobotekere,
Biriduba Woyengitonyokopa
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
57-64
Received:
7 February 2014
Published:
10 March 2014
Abstract: Wildlife is commonly exploited as sources of animal protein in Nigeria. This study was designed to assess the rate of wildlife exploitation in 2 communities in Delta State, Nigeria specialized in the sale of turtles and tortoises. These two communities receive 1,512 turtles and tortoises weekly from hunters and display them for sales along the East-West Road. Fortnightly field surveys in these communities show that 12 shops displayed 144 – 212 numbers of turtles and tortoises while the rest are kept in bulk storage. Each shop sells 16 – 20 (average 18) on favorable business days and 3 – 9 (average 6) on unfavorable days. The retailer makes an average profit of N1000, N 3,500 and N 4000 per unit of small, medium and large species respectively (US $1 = N 156). The numbers of retailers are increasing. The turtles and tortoises were captured from freshwater wetlands located in an island bounded in the north by the bifurcation of River Niger at Aboh, and between Ramos River to the west and San Bartholomew River to the east and in the south by the mangrove ecosystem at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean. These wetlands turtles and tortoises are mostly exploited for meat, traditional medicine and as source of employment and income. The species exploited include 2 species of turtles (Pelusios niger and P. castaneus) and tortoises (Kinixys erosa and K. homeana). The study concluded that this pattern of wildlife exploitation is unsustainable.
Abstract: Wildlife is commonly exploited as sources of animal protein in Nigeria. This study was designed to assess the rate of wildlife exploitation in 2 communities in Delta State, Nigeria specialized in the sale of turtles and tortoises. These two communities receive 1,512 turtles and tortoises weekly from hunters and display them for sales along the East...
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Exploring Water Quality Index and Risk on Quality of Life in an Industrial Area: A Case from Ghaziabad City, India
Haroon Sajjad,
Jyoti,
Rahis Uddin
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
65-72
Received:
3 February 2014
Published:
10 March 2014
Abstract: This paper makes an attempt to evaluate water quality index and its possible effect on quality of life in an Indian industrial city. Thirty six groundwater samples from CIS Hindon area of Ghaziabad city were analyzed with the help of standard methods of APHA. Water quality index was evaluated to assess suitability of drinking water. Rand Short Form 36 Items Questionnaire was used to examine the effect of water quality index on the quality of life of residents living around sampling stations. Results revealed that most of the water quality parameters were beyond the desired limit. Water quality index for 58% of the samples are very high and water quality is not suitable for drinking purpose. The statistical analysis showed that correlation between water quality index and quality of life was linear and negative. Therefore, proper groundwater management strategies are necessary to protect sustainability of water in the study area.
Abstract: This paper makes an attempt to evaluate water quality index and its possible effect on quality of life in an Indian industrial city. Thirty six groundwater samples from CIS Hindon area of Ghaziabad city were analyzed with the help of standard methods of APHA. Water quality index was evaluated to assess suitability of drinking water. Rand Short Form...
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Selective Impacts of the 2012 Water Floods on the Vegetation and Wildlife of Wilberforce Island, Nigeria
Elijah Ige Ohimain,
Sylvester Chibueze Izah,
Dimie Otobotekere
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
73-85
Received:
13 January 2014
Published:
20 March 2014
Abstract: The study was designed to evaluate the impacts of the 2012 water floods on the wildlife and vegetation of Wilberforce Island. Ten transects of 1 km each were established cutting across the three levels of impacted vegetation namely, dead, dying and intact plants. The relative topography of the plots was assessed based on the measurement of receding water marks on plants. The effects of the floods on wildlife were assessed through interviews and field work. The study found that 23 mammals, 21 avian fauna and 37 plants were impacted. The plant species, which exhibited the greatest impacts, was Musanga cecropoides. The water level marks on Musanga cecropoides coincided with the physiological stress on the plant. The receding water level mark on Musanga cecropoides ranged from 59.33 to 164.67cm for the dead plants, 12.00 to 32.67cm for the dying plants, but the water was at ground level for intact vegetation. The study provided an assessment of the 2012 floods impacts on biodiversity, providing scientific evidence for planning responses to mitigate future flooding events and providing the basis for assessment of cumulative impacts of multiple flooding events on the Island since flooding was also predicted to occur in 2013.
Abstract: The study was designed to evaluate the impacts of the 2012 water floods on the wildlife and vegetation of Wilberforce Island. Ten transects of 1 km each were established cutting across the three levels of impacted vegetation namely, dead, dying and intact plants. The relative topography of the plots was assessed based on the measurement of receding...
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Ecological Monitoring of Marine Fish Farming Activities by Enteromorpha Intestinalis (Chlorophyta)
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
86-90
Received:
31 March 2014
Accepted:
15 April 2014
Published:
30 April 2014
Abstract: The biomass production of algae was markedly enhanced near a large fish farming establishment in the northern Baltic Sea, SW coast of Finland. The mean biomass values of the dominant filamentous green alga Enteromorpha intestinalis at sites near the fish farming establishment were 3-fold the values at the control site (160–190 g/ m2 vs. 64 g/m2). The nutrient discharges from the fish farms were reflected in the elemental contents of the algal tissues. The contents of phosphorus (mean values in the farming area vs. at the control site) were 0.30–0.33% (dry weight) vs. 0.25%,and the levels of N were 1.8–2.1 % vs. 1.6%. On the basis of the nutrient contents, nitrogen is the growth-limiting nutrient in these coastal waters. The results are thus in contrast with the commonly accepted view that the reduction of phosphorus discharges is the main objective in water management. In addition, the accumulation of zinc in the tissues of Enteromorpha appeared to be a useful indicator of fish farming activities
Abstract: The biomass production of algae was markedly enhanced near a large fish farming establishment in the northern Baltic Sea, SW coast of Finland. The mean biomass values of the dominant filamentous green alga Enteromorpha intestinalis at sites near the fish farming establishment were 3-fold the values at the control site (160–190 g/ m2 vs. 64 g/m2). T...
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Analysis of Forest Cover Changes in Nimbia Forest Reserve, Kaduna State, Nigeria Using Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing Techniques
Musa Ismaila Tudun-Wada,
Yakubu Mohammed Tukur,
Ya’u Hussaini,
Muhammad Zakari Sani,
Ishaya Musa,
Vivan Ezra Lekwot
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
91-99
Received:
1 April 2014
Accepted:
15 April 2014
Published:
30 April 2014
Abstract: Nimbia Forest Reserve is witnessing degradation due to anthropogenic activities such as Farming, Illegal felling and fuel wood extraction just like many other forest reserves in Nigeria. On the other hand, the management has failed to provide enough manpower to guard against anthropogenic activities and the few ones available were not receiving better remuneration. Other problems faced by the forest are that trimming is done on time and cleared lands were not replanted. These and many other reasons leading to overexploitation, increase rate of deforestation, modification of the forest structure, reduced income to government and increased unemployment. This study examines the use of GIS and Remote Sensing in mapping Land Cover in Nimbia Forest Reserve between 1986 and 2010 so as to detect the changes that may have taken place in this status between these periods. Subsequently, an attempt was made at projecting the observed land cover in the next 21 years. The result obtained show that some features will be lost to other features and possible reasons for that were evaluated. Suggestions were therefore made at the end of the work on ways to use the information as contained therein optimally.
Abstract: Nimbia Forest Reserve is witnessing degradation due to anthropogenic activities such as Farming, Illegal felling and fuel wood extraction just like many other forest reserves in Nigeria. On the other hand, the management has failed to provide enough manpower to guard against anthropogenic activities and the few ones available were not receiving bet...
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Study on Black Carbon and Its Characterisation at an Urban Location, Hyderabad during 2010 to 2012
Subin Jose,
Biswadip Gharai
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
100-105
Received:
1 April 2014
Accepted:
18 April 2014
Published:
30 April 2014
Abstract: A seven channel Aethalometer (AE31) was used to measure the black carbon (BC) mass concentrations at the premises of National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad during the period 2010-2012 to characterize BC temporal concentration and source identification. Diurnal variation of BC shows varied amplitude of BC mass concentration with peak during mornings and nights with minimum during afternoons of all the study periods (2010-2012). Highest absorption coefficient at 520 nm (babs = 38.79 Mm-1) was observed during post monsoon season of 2011 and lowest value observed (babs = 22.06 Mm-1) during winter season of 2010. Absorption Angstrom Exponents (AAE) were analysed in the lower (370 nm-520 nm) and higher wavelength (590 nm-950 nm) region to explain the BC origin. A few number of days with high contrasting AAE in lower and higher wavelengths, responsible for the bio fuel generated BC were found during the study period. Study revealed that majority of the study period, AAE values are around 1, attributed to mainly vehicular emission. Highest AAE of 1.57 (370 nm-950 nm) was observed on 4 January, 2012. Three representative days of pre-monsoon, post-monsoon and winter were considered for analyzing daily variations of AAE in conjunction with back trajectories from NOAA HYSPLIT model to confirm the source of BC as biomass burning origin.
Abstract: A seven channel Aethalometer (AE31) was used to measure the black carbon (BC) mass concentrations at the premises of National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad during the period 2010-2012 to characterize BC temporal concentration and source identification. Diurnal variation of BC shows varied amplitude of BC mass concentration with peak durin...
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Heavy Metal Concentration Levels in Soil at Lake Geriyo Irrigation Site, Yola, Adamawa State, North Eastern Nigeria
Hong,
Aliyu Haliru,
Law,
Puong Ling,
Selaman,
Onni Suhaiza
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
106-111
Received:
10 April 2014
Accepted:
22 April 2014
Published:
30 April 2014
Abstract: The study assessed the physicochemical parameters and mean concentration levels of heavy metals in soil at two selected wastewater receiving sites and control site of Lake Geriyo irrigation project in order to determine the extent of heavy metal pollution due to wastewater irrigation using standard methods. The pH values at the River Benue, Shinko and control site soils were slightly acidic to neutral with mean value of 6.85, 5.75 and 7.0 respectively. Mean electrical conductivity values were 1.08µs/cm, 1.54µs/cm and 1.95µs/cm and organic matter levels are 0.75%, 2.11% and 3.5%. The textural classification of the soils revealed that the soils are predominantly sandy in nature with 56.4%, 55.6% and 50.4% sand, 20%, 16.0% and19% are clay, while 24.0%, 28.4% and 30.0% are silt. The mean concentrations of heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cd, Cr, Pb and Ni) recorded in River Benue site soil are 86.89mg/kg, 74.38mg/kg,12.76mg/kg, 15.08mg/kg, 9.83mg/kg, 11.0mg/kg, 7.17mg/kg and 18.73mg/kg. Shinko site recorded concentration levels of 292.7mg/kg, 309.2mg/kg, 130.9mg/kg, 253.8mg/kg, 199.2mg/kg, 158.7mg/kg and 74.43mg/kg respectively, while the control site soil had concentration levels of Fe 58.48mg/kg, Zn 39.44mg/kg, Mn 7.13mg/kg, Cu 9.40mg/kg, Cd 7.62mg/kg, Cr 9.82mg/kg, Pb 6.28mg/kg and Ni 17.62mg/kg. The result showed that the concentrations of heavy metals at River Benue and Shinko site soils are more polluted than the control site soil with Shinko site soil exhibiting high levels of heavy metals concentration. Comparative analysis of this study and International threshold values of heavy metals concentration levels in soil revealed that most of the parameters at Shinko site soil are elevated above the EU, USA and UK Standards. Future study is hereby recommended to focus on the impact of heavy metal concentration on irrigated vegetables as some may find their way into the food chain and cause public health hazards to consumers.
Abstract: The study assessed the physicochemical parameters and mean concentration levels of heavy metals in soil at two selected wastewater receiving sites and control site of Lake Geriyo irrigation project in order to determine the extent of heavy metal pollution due to wastewater irrigation using standard methods. The pH values at the River Benue, Shinko ...
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The Mathematical Modeling of the Atmospheric Diffusion Equation
Khaled Sadek Mohamed Essa,
Mohamed Magdy Abd El-Wahab,
Hussein Mahmoud ELsman,
Adel Shahta Soliman,
Samy Mahmoud ELGmmal,
Aly Ahamed Wheida
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
112-116
Received:
12 February 2014
Accepted:
29 April 2014
Published:
30 April 2014
Abstract: The advection diffusion equation (ADE) is solved in two directions to obtain the crosswind integrated concentration. The solution is solved using separation variables technique and considering the wind speed depends on the vertical height and eddy diffusivity depends on downwind and vertical distances. Comparing between the two predicted concentrations and observed concentration data are taken on the Copenhagen in Denmark.
Abstract: The advection diffusion equation (ADE) is solved in two directions to obtain the crosswind integrated concentration. The solution is solved using separation variables technique and considering the wind speed depends on the vertical height and eddy diffusivity depends on downwind and vertical distances. Comparing between the two predicted concentrat...
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Effects of Emissions from Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC) on Soil Fertility in Rido Area of Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria
Vivan Ezra Lekwot,
Yakubu Mohammed Tukur,
Michael Kingsley Balasom,
Ya’u Hussaini,
Ishaya Musa,
Shehu Bako Makarau
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
117-122
Received:
16 April 2014
Accepted:
22 April 2014
Published:
30 April 2014
Abstract: The environment is considered as man’s important asset that must be protected for his life support. Regrettably, the situation is different where oil refinery and petrochemical plants operate. Environmental pollution in the form of emissions and effluent discharge in these areas poses serious threat to the ecosystem particularly soil, often with undesirable effects. This paper, therefore, takes a look at the refinery operations in Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company (KRPC). The study collected soil samples using soil Auger at 500 metres interval along four (4) transects in two years (i.e 2012 - 2013) and both in the wet and dry season of each year. Soil samples collected were taken to the laboratory for analysis and emphasis placed on those soil properties directly affecting soil fertility status which are: water holding capacity, soil acidity, macro nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium), micro nutrients (Calcium, Magnesium and Sulphur), the results from the laboratory analysis on those properties affecting soil fertility were compared with National standard (maximum permissible limits) on those properties and discovers soil contaminations with liquid gaseous and solid waste disposal from the refinery. Policy recommendations are set forth based on research findings with a view to minimizing the effects of emissions from the Refining plants and Petrochemical complex on the environmental components particularly soil in the study area.
Abstract: The environment is considered as man’s important asset that must be protected for his life support. Regrettably, the situation is different where oil refinery and petrochemical plants operate. Environmental pollution in the form of emissions and effluent discharge in these areas poses serious threat to the ecosystem particularly soil, often with un...
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Environmental Monitoring of the Effects of Conventional and Artisanal Gold Mining on Water Quality in Ngwabalozi River, Southern Zimbabwe
Simbarashe Mudyazhezha,
Reginald Kanhukamwe
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2, April 2014
Pages:
123-127
Received:
10 April 2014
Accepted:
22 April 2014
Published:
10 May 2014
Abstract: Mineral extraction contributes positive to the socioeconomic fabric of many African countries but has also contributed to the deterioration of environmental quality. It has been branded the most destructive industry in the world. This study sought to assess the effects of conventional gold mining which use cyanide for gold extraction and artisanal gold mining which uses mercury amalgamation on water quality in Ngwabalozi River. Along the river, there are gold panning activities upstream and a conventional mine downstream. Water samples were collected at four sampling points: 1) upstream of the gold panning activities; 2) just downstream of gold panning area; 3) upstream of the conventional mine; 4) downstream of the conventional mine. Benthic macro-invertebrates were also collected at the name four points, identified to family level and counted. Water samples were analyzed for mercury, iron, arsenic, sulphates and turbidity. There were significant differences (p = 0.000) in the measurements of mercury, arsenic, sulphates, taxa richness, total count of individuals, Shannon-Weiner index, evenness index and average tolerance scores among the four sampling sites. Gold panning activities were found to pollute Ngwabalozi River with mercury while the conventional mine polluted the river with sulphates. Gold panning activities also feed a lot of sand into the river resulting in high turbidity. Gold mining reduced the taxa richness, total count of individual and the diversity of benthic macro-invertebrate community in the river. There was pollution induced succession in the river as pollution sensitive species were replaced by pollution tolerant ones.
Abstract: Mineral extraction contributes positive to the socioeconomic fabric of many African countries but has also contributed to the deterioration of environmental quality. It has been branded the most destructive industry in the world. This study sought to assess the effects of conventional gold mining which use cyanide for gold extraction and artisanal ...
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