Use of LeptadeniaHastata as a Biomonitor of Heavy Metal Pollution in Dutse

The leaves of Leptadeniahastatawere tested as a possible biomonitor of heavy metal pollution in Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria. Concentrations of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn were determined in unwashed and washed leaves and the associated soils collected from different sampling sites. The Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn concentrations ranged from 7.54-15.08, 8.33-12.50, 0.36-0.47 and 15.67-61.11 mg/kg in the unwashed leaves respectively, while in the washed leaves the concentration rangedfrom 5.01-8.12, 5.45-6.50, 0.19-0.25 and 14.67-30.00 mg/kg for Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn respectively. In the soil supporting the plant the values of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn ranged from 2.22-6.75, 17.19-34.90, 0.74-1.07 and 34.44-82.22 mg/kg respectively. The results of the analysis showed that the concentrations of the heavy metals in the unwashed leaves were significantly higher than the washed leaves. The levels of Cu, Pb and Zn were found to be within the normal range, while Cd levels were found to be above the normal range. This indicates contamination of the plant with Cd. The result also showed that Leptadeniahastatacan be used as a biomonitor of heavy metal pollution.