Environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and ecotoxicology of heavy metals

ABSTRACT

Heavy metals, pervasive in the environment due to natural processes and human activities, pose substantial threats to ecosystems and human health. This study aims to delve into the sources, contamination pathways in natural waters, and subsequent bioaccumulation of heavy metals across various organisms. The overview encompasses an exploration of the environmental persistence, bioaccumulation dynamics, and ecotoxicological impacts of these metals. Methodologically, this research undertakes a comprehensive review synthesizing existing literature and studies on heavy metal contamination, bioaccumulation mechanisms, and ecotoxicity. Key findings highlight the protracted environmental persistence of heavy metals, perpetuating significant threats to ecological balance and human well-being. Notably, the transfer of these metals through food chains culminates in their bioaccumulation in diverse organisms, raising concerns about potential toxicity, including human exposure. The discussion underscores the imperative nature of assessing heavy metal pollution and its ramifications on ecosystems and human health. Emphasizing the essential role of bioindicators and biomarkers, this article elucidates their significance in evaluating heavy metal-induced environmental stressors and their impact on both biota and human populations. This comprehensive study contributes to a nuanced understanding of heavy metal dynamics, advocating for proactive measures in monitoring and mitigating their deleterious effects on ecosystems and human health.

KEYWORDS:

• Environmental persistence
• bioaccumulation dynamics
• ecotoxicological impacts
• heavy metal contamination
• human health risks
• biomarkers assessment
• ecosystem monitoring

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Notes on contributors

Great Iruoghene Edo

Great Iruoghene Edo is an international scholar with several publications and he is the founder of The Great Elite Scholars, who train young people on research. He has gotten several publications in the field of Chemistry and other field of studies.

Princess Oghenekeno Samuel

Princess Oghenekeno Samuel is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Gift Onyinyechi Oloni

Gift Onyinyechi Oloni is a 2nd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Gracious Okeoghene Ezekiel

Gracious Okeoghene Ezekiel is a 2nd year undergraduate student studying Biotechnology and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Victor Ovie Ikpekoro

Victor Ovie Ikpekoro is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Promise Obasohan

Promise Obasohan is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Jonathan Ongulu

Jonathan Ongulu is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Chinenye Favour Otunuya

Chinenye Favour Otunuya is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Ajiri Rapheal Opiti

Ajiri Rapheal Opiti is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Ruth Sheyi Ajakaye

Ruth Sheyi Ajakaye is a 3rd year undergraduate student studying Petroleum Chemistry and currently working as a research assistant under The Great Elite Scholars founded by Great Iruoghene Edo.

Arthur Efeoghene Athan Essaghah

Arthur Efeoghene Athan Essaghah is a Professor in the department of Urban and Regional Planning.

Joy Johnson Agbo

Joy Johnson Agbo is a Senior Lecturer/Researcher in Nursing. She is a specialist in Health related research.