EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL OF SACRED FIG (Ficus religiosa) AERIAL ROOT AS BIOINDICATOR OF LEAD (Pb) POLLUTION IN MAIDUGURI, NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA

Heavy metals released into the atmosphere from diverse human activities affect human and environmental health. This study aimed at investigating the potential of Secred fig (Ficus religiosa) as a bioindicator of lead (Pb) pollution in Maiduguri, North-Eastern Nigeria. The study used atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) analysis to analyze the presence of Pb in aerial and main roots of Sacred fig collected from eight locations within Maiduguri. The finding from the study revealed significantly higher Pb concentrations in aerial roots. Although a weak correlation was found between Pb levels in aerial and main roots, the findings demonstrate Ficus religiosa's potential as a cost-effective tool for environmental monitoring. Based on the findings, it is recommended that plant-based approach in remediating heavy metals contamination in our soils should be adopted because it offers a sustainable alternative to sophisticated air quality assessments techniques. Further research is should be done to explore the applicability of other plant species in monitoring air quality.