Effect of Effluents Produced from Palm oil Processing Industries on Fish Production around Bugala Island, Kalangala District, Uganda

Abstract

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), a tree crop that originated from Central and West Africa is primarily planted in tropical regions, mainly in deep soils and humid climatic areas around lakes and wetlands. This has encouraged the setting up of the oil processing industries near or within such highly fragile ecosystems. The study was set out to investigate the impact of effluent discharge from palm oil processing industries on water quality and fish yield in Bugala Island, Kalangala District, Uganda. The research aimed to determine the extent of pollution and its consequences on key water quality parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and fish populations. To achieve these objectives, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative analysis of water samples and fish yields with qualitative data from interviews and surveys. Water quality indicators, including turbidity, pH, temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen (DO), were measured across control and experimental sites, alongside the concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and mercury. The study utilized one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests to assess the statistical significance of differences between sites. The results indicated significant variations in turbidity, pH, salinity, and DO levels, particularly in areas affected by effluent discharge, while temperature and heavy metal concentrations did not show statistically significant differences. Fish yield analysis revealed significant disparities in the quantity, average weight, and length of fish species, with Oreochromis niloticus demonstrating the highest mean weight and length in less polluted areas. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter environmental regulations and the implementation of advanced effluent treatment technologies. Continuous environmental monitoring is also recommended to mitigate the adverse effects of industrial pollution on aquatic ecosystems and to safeguard the livelihoods of communities dependent on these resources.