Abstract

The levels of trace metals in maize plant from nine selected areas along the Asa River discharge channels in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, were determined using HACH DR/EL 5 spectrophotometer. The results show that levels of Pb, Cr, Cu, Co, Ba ranged from 0.04±0.01, 0.17±0.07, 0.32±0.02, 0.01±0.01, 0.34±0.03 during dry season, while rainy season recorded 0.10±0.01, 0.14±0.04, 0.43±0.10, 0.07±0.03, 0.45±0.13 mg/kg respectively. Values obtained are comparable with those available in literature and within tolerable limits of some regulatory authorities for both seasons, except Cu and Ba which were above the acceptable limits of 0.05-0.5 mg/kg and 0.07 mg/kg respectively

Key words: maize plant, trace elements, discharge channels, Asa River