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 …