Screening of Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity in Selected Boreholes Water by the use of Allium cepa Assay in Benin Metropolis, Nigeria

This study focussed on the screening of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in selected borehole water using Allium cepa Assay. Emissions of genotoxic chemicals from anthropogenic activities into environmental compartments require genotoxicity assays for the ecosystems. The Allium cepa assay was used to evaluate 5 different water samples collected from boreholes Ring road, Sakponba, Ekosodin, Science and Eddy Grace in Benin City, Edo state. For determination of sample concentrations prior to genotoxicity testing, a 96-h root growth inhibition test was carried out. This was to screen the borehole water for toxicity and to identify polluting drinking water or other sources in the sewer system and thus to reduce the toxic content.