Impact of heavy metals in plant tissues (roots, stems and leaves) of Acrostichum aureum (L.) in the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study investigated the impact of heavy metals in the plant tissues in the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State. This study was carried out at three mangrove locations within Iko Town, Okoroutip and Uta Ewa in Eastern Obolo, Ibeno and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas respectively. Vegetation sampling and analysis of heavy metals in plant tissues was done using acid digestion for inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometry. The study analyzed the seasonal characterization of heavy metals in A. aureum tissues (leaf, stem, root) across mangrove communities during dry and wet seasons. In the dry season, Okoroutip recorded the highest concentrations of Zn (leaf), Cu (stem), and V (root), with Ag, As, Cd, and Hg below detectable limits. Iko Town showed Zn as the dominant metal across tissues, while Hg, Ni, and Pb had minimal presence. Uta Ewa had Zn and V as the most prevalent metals in leaves and roots, respectively. In the wet season, heavy metals like Pb, V, and Cr showed higher concentrations, particularly in Uta Ewa, while Ag and Cd were minimally present or below detectable limits. Across all communities, Zn and V remained dominant in specific tissues, while Ni, Pb, and Hg consistently exhibited low levels. The findings highlight significant spatial and seasonal variations in metal concentrations and emphasize the need for monitoring and management of mangrove ecosystems. Acrostichum aureum adapts to polluted environments by accumulating heavy metals, demonstrating its phytoremediation potential. It is a recommended plant species for remediation, monitoring pollution, and enforcing measures to limit industrial effluents in mangroves.