Heavy metal content in the African giant snail Archachatina marginata (Swainson, 1821) (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Achatinidae) in southern Nigeria

Abstract

Heavy metal concentrations in the African giant snail Archachatina marginata (Swainson) from nine localities in southern Nigeria ranged from 0.77 to 7.51 mg kg-1 Pb; 3.06-46.9 mg kg-1 Fe; 0.03-0.40 mg kg-1 Ni; 0.04-0.12 mg kg-1 Cu; 0.71-4.51 mg kg-1 Co; 0.67-1.27 mg kg-1 Mn; 0.99-3.28 mg kg-1 Cd; 0.08-0.22 mg kg-1 Zn; Cr was below the limit of detection. Concentrations of Pb, Fe, Ni, Cu, Co, Cd and Zn in the snail tissue varied significantly (95% confidence limit) between the localities. No significant variation was observed in the concentrations of Cr and Mn. Pb and Cd concentration exceeded the statutory safety limits for these elements in meat. The results indicate a heavy metal pollution of the habitats.