V1I7P8

Assessment of Selected Trace Metal Levels (Pb, Zn, Cu) in Wild and Domesticated Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) Tissues

Jelil  Olaoye^1*, Taiwo Bakare-Abidola², Audu Abdulgafar Adeiza³

Abstract

This study investigated the concentrations of Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn) in the heart, kidney, liver, and skin of both wild and domesticated grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus). Meat samples were collected from Imesai village for wild grasscutters and from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) for domesticated specimens. A total of 20 samples were analyzed in duplicate, making 40 samples in total. The samples underwent wet digestion using 5 ml of 0.1N nitric acid and 1.5 ml of 0.1N concentrated sulfuric acid before being analyzed via Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. The concentrations of Cu, Pb, and Zn in the analyzed organs ranged as follows: Cu (0.252 ± 0.002 – 0.384 ± 0.005 ppm), Pb (5.845 ± 0.035 – 11.555 ± 0.035 ppm), and Zn (83.300 ± 0.565 – 132.100 ± 0.989 ppm). The results revealed that wild grasscutters exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) trace metal concentrations than their domesticated counterparts. Notably, Pb and Zn levels exceeded internationally recommended limits, while Cu concentrations were relatively low but remained within WHO standards. Additionally, Cu was undetectable in domesticated grasscutters. These findings suggest that bioaccumulation of trace metals in wild grasscutters may pose potential health risks through dietary exposure. Proper public health awareness, improved handling practices, and regulatory measures for bushmeat consumption are recommended to mitigate associated risks.

Keywords: Trace metals, Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), Bioaccumulation, Public health