Peri-urban areas are dynamic interfaces between urban and rural environments, often absorbing excessive population growth and supporting diverse livelihoods. While fish farming in these regions significantly contributes to socioeconomic growth and food security, its proliferation has introduced notable environmental challenges. This study assessed the water quality of fish ponds in the peri-urban area, Ibadan, using the Arulogun area under the Akinyele Local Government Area as a case study. A cross-sectional and experimental survey research design was used for the study, while both primary and secondary data were sourced. A purposive sampling technique was used to select fish ponds based on relevant characteristics. Each participant adequately represented different zones of Arulogun. A total of 62 fish ponds were identified, representing a 100% sample size for adequate inference. Water samples were collected from the chosen fishponds in Arulogun, Ibadan and the water quality was assessed using six metals (i.e., Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), and Cadmium (Cd)). The chosen water samples were then subjected to a laboratory test. Samples were collected in polypropylene bottles that were appropriately acidified to avoid biological, chemical, and physical alterations. After being placed inside an ice box, these bottles were brought to the laboratory. Every sample was kept in a refrigerator at a temperature lower than 4 °C. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to analyse the data at a p≤ 0.05 confidence level. The results were compared against the World Health Organisation (WHO) standard limits for fishponds and fisheries to determine potential contamination risks. The findings indicated that there is a high level of Iron (Fe), which exceeds the WHO threshold, and it was recommended that adequate attention should be given to the peri-urban landuse development.
Awolumate et al. (Fri,) studied this question.