Asian Journal of Environment & Ecology

The presence of antibiotics and biocidal agents in aquatic environments raises significant concerns due to their potential impacts on water quality and human health. This study aimed to detect residues of various antibiotics and biocides, in the Atavu River. Samples were collected from two distinct communities, Akpugo and Amodu, along the river stretch, as well as from a spring water source located on the same river site at Akpugo, Enugu. Fourteen (14) antimicrobial (antibiotics and biocides) from the rivers randomly collected from the head, mid, and tail regions and spring water were analyzed using a Gas Chromatography Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID). Different levels of antibiotics and biocides were recorded in the head, mid and tail regions of the river within both communities. Notably, concentration of tetracycline among all detected biocides in the river samples from Akpugo, and Amodu ranges from 0.10-0.19ug/ml and 0.50 -0.65ug/ml, respectively. Other biocides which include penicillin, dicloxacillin, oxacillin, Amoxacillin, Ampicillin, Avilamycin, Gentamycin, Colistin, Lincomycin and Tylosin gave a concentration range of 0.01 – 0.18ug/ml. The pesticide aldrin (0.01ug/ml) and an antimalarial parent compound, quinoline (0.03ug/ml) was detected in mid region of Akpugo and head and downstream region of Amodu rivers respectively. Lincomycin and quinoline (0.01ug/ml) were detected in the spring water from Amodu respectively. The pervasive presence of antibiotics and biocidal residues in both the river and spring water is a considerable concern, as the river serves as a crucial source of drinking water and is utilized for agricultural activities, while the spring water is the primary source of potable water for the community. This persistent exposure to antibiotics and biocide-laden waters suggests a potential for adverse health effects and the development of resistance in microbial populations, highlighting an urgent need for intervention.