Effects of sediment contamination by artisanal gold mining on Chironomus riparius in Mabubi River, Tanzania

The contamination of sediments by mercury from in artisanal gold mining has been only assessed through bulk chemical analysis and subsequent comparison with reference values from uncontaminated areas. However, measurement of contaminant levels alone has a limited ability to predict adverse effects on living resources. This study investigated the possible effects of contamination of sediments in Mabubi River by mercury drained from Mugusu artisanal gold mine on the survival, growth and emergency of the benthic midge Chironomus riparius. Sediments collected downstream from the Mugusu Mine impaired growth and delayed emergence of the midges but did not impair survival. Mean dry body weight of larvae from sediments collected 3 km down stream (1012 μg) was significantly lower than those from the control sediment (p < 0.05). Compared to the control sediment, the emergence of the midges from sediments collected up to 6 km downstream of the mining activity were delayed for four days. In conclusion, chemistry and ecotoxicity results from this study suggest that sediments collected in the Mabubi River downstream of the Mugusu mine adversely affect C. riparius and probably other fauna and as such present a considerable local environmental risk.