Micropellet Particles: A Vector of Hydrophobic Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Lagos Lagoon

Introduction: The occurrence of plastic waste materials in the aquatic environment is receiving enormous attention all over the world due to its negative impacts on aquatic organisms. Micropellet litters have been found to adsorb and absorbs persistent organic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Endocrine disrupting chemicals are recognized toxic chemicals to human and organisms.

Aim: This study quantifies occurrence of micropellet particles in Lagos Lagoon and their EDCs contents.

Methodology: The sampling was conducted from 2016 to 2018 at eight sampling locations with three points established in each of the sampling station. The chemical analysis of EDCs was conducted by gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detector and flame ionization detector.

Results: Micropellet particles occurrence was highest in surface water (67%) compared to (33%) in sediment during the period of sampling. EDCs contents reflect contamination of PCBs and PAHs in the extracted micropellet particles. Some sampling stations contained relatively higher PAHs concentrations but very low concentration of PCBs.

Conclusion: Since, micropellet particles and EDCs cannot be removed completely from the aquatic environment; reduction of impending hazards ought to rely on curtailing disposal of plastic materials and sensitizing the populace on general disposal methods in order to minimize interaction of plastic particles with EDCs which are likely to pose significant effects on aquatic fauna.