[3] It is believed to have derived its name from St. Anthony, a European explorer who visited the area in 15th century.

[4] The mouth of the river gives way to large mangroves which are an important habitat for aquatic animals.

[5] The river is host to many fish species including Sarotherodon melanotheron, Galeoides decadactylus, and Ilisha africana.

[6] Additionally the river mangroves are home to the many other aquatic animals including oysters Crassostrea gasar and shrimp Penaeus monodon.

[7] Over the last decade evidence has emerged that the river and it's estuary are declining in capacity to support habitats for local fish populations.