摘要：Trace metals (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb and Se) in African giant land snails from selected Local Government Areas (LGA) in Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria were analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometric (AAS) technique. Results showed that the mean levels of Cr (399 ± 195 mg/kg) and Se (51.6 ± 31.3 mg/kg) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the maximum recommended limits of 1.0 mg/kg and 3.5 mg/kg for Cr and Se, respectively. As, Cd and Pb levels were beyond the detection limit in the snail samples obtained from Essien Udim, Ikot Ekpene and Etim Ekpo LGA. Similarly, Hg level was beyond the detection limit in all samples investigated. The general pattern of trace metals levels was in the order: Cr > Se > Pb > Cd > As > Hg. The results showed that As and Hg fell within their permissible safe levels; but Cd, Cr, Pb and Se were significantly above safe levels for human consumption. The high concentration of trace metals in the snail samples may be related to anthropogenic activities taking place in the areas studied.
