Academic Research Journal on Health Information Management

Vol. 5(2), pp. 43-48, June 2024

ISSN: 2734-2190

https://doi.org/10.14662/arjhim2024350

 

Full Length Research

 

 

Investigating the impact of Ballast water discharges into the Koko, Oghara and Warri Waterways by Commercial Ships: Implication of invasive vegetation impacts on the indigenes’ and other aquatic lives’ health in the environment.

 

Ohwoudue Eriyonja Roland1 and 2Eshagberi Godwin

 

(1 and 2Dept of Science Laboratory Technology, Delta state Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Delta state, Nigeria)  

 

Accepted 12 June 2024

Abstract

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of ballast water discharges on the Koko, Oghara, and Warri ports in Delta State, Nigeria, focusing on invasive species, heavy metal contamination, and their effects on local aquatic ecosystems and communities. The primary objectives include assessment of phytoplankton viability and diversity, evaluation of heavy metal concentrations in ballast water, and analysis of the socioeconomic impacts on fishing activities of locals. Methods employed include flow cytometry for phytoplankton analysis, for heavy metals assays and physicochemical screening forballast water quality. Results showed varying phytoplankton viability across the sites, with Oghara Port having the highest at 70%, followed by Warri Port at 65%, and Koko Port at 55%. The control site had a significantly higher viability rate of 90%. Flow cytometry revealed a decline in phytoplankton diversity, particularly in Koko Port, which was dominated by invasive species. Heavy metal analysis indicated that all ports exceeded International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards for lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). Warri Port had lead concentrations of 0.45 ppm and cadmium at 0.10 ppm, while the control site showed much lower levels, emphasizing the pollution risks from ballast water discharges. The socioeconomic impact on fishing was significant, with 49% of respondents reporting reduced fish catches due to invasive species and pollution. Additionally, 28% noted increased invasive vegetation that obstructed navigation and fishing. Various ballast water treatment methods were assessed; electrolysis treatment reduced bacterial counts by 85% but resulted in only 25% phytoplankton viability. UV irradiation treatment reduced bacterial counts by 70% but also adversely affected phytoplankton health. The study highlights the urgent need for effective ballast water management practices to mitigate ecological and socioeconomic impacts. Recommendations include comprehensive monitoring to ensure compliance with IMO standards for heavy metals and biological contaminants and investment in advanced ballast water treatment technologies to enhance effectiveness while minimizing adverse effects on native species. Community engagement initiatives should be developed to raise awareness about invasive species and pollution risks. Continued research is needed to understand the long-term ecological impacts on marine biodiversity and fisheries. The findings offer a foundation for future research aimed at developing policies and practices to safeguard marine ecosystems from the challenges posed by invasive species and pollution related to ballast water discharges.

 

Keywords: Ballast Water Management, Invasive Species, Phytoplankton Viability, Heavy Metal Contamination, Socioeconomic Impact, Aquatic Ecosystems, Fishing Activities, Delta state

Paper type: research