Evaluación del estado ecológico utilizando índices de diatomeas en el río Metceras ubicado en el cantón Palora

Abstract

The deterioration of water quality has a negative impact on environmental, social and economic aspects. Human intervention in agriculture and industry pollutes water bodies and alters aquatic ecosystems, reducing their quality and availability. Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides and inefficient waste management are critical problems that affect biodiversity and environmental health; therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the composition of epilithic diatoms in the Metceras River to evaluate their environmental status. The methodology was mixed with qualitative and quantitative analysis of diatoms, evaluating their diversity and abundance to establish trophic and biological indices of water quality. The level of research was correlational since the variables were manipulated with respect to each other. The research included the collection of samples at four points in the river and their subsequent laboratory analysis. The results showed that, although some physicochemical and microbiological parameters were within permissible limits, the presence of fecal coliforms indicated localized sources of contamination. Diatom analysis revealed low contamination according to the Trophic Index of Water Quality (ITCA) and a slight level according to the Pampean Diatom Index (IDP), suggesting a relative resistance of these communities to human activities near the river. In this context, it is concluded that the taxonomic identification of diatoms and their abundance provided key information on the water quality of the Metceras River. Despite the low pollution detected by the ITCA and IDP indices, the presence of fecal coliforms underlines the need for specific management to address localized sources of pollution. The integration of both indices allowed a more accurate assessment and highlighted the importance of complementary approaches for effective water resources management.