Caracterización de la calidad del agua de la microcuenca del río Yasipán de la provincia de Chimborazo mediante la utilización de bioindicadores - macroinvertebrados acuáticos.

Abstract

This research characterizes the water quality of the Yasipan River of Chimborazo province of through the use of bio-indicators, aquatic macro-invertebrates by means of the classification in orders and families that such micro watershed could have. Also, it is helped with the Biological Monitoring Working Party/ (BMWP/Col) and de Andian Biological Index (ABI). In addition, the physicochemical parameters of water were measure using the Water Quality Index (WQI). The investigation began with the division of the basin into three sections (high, medium and low) and the selection og five monitoring points strategically distributed during the 12 km of the river, at each point the flow rate it was measured using the winding method, the water samples were collected to determine the WQI, the dissolved oxygen, pH, nitrate, phosphate, the total of solids and temperature parameters that were determined in situ by multi parameter meters. Turbidity, BOD and fecal coliforms were also analyzed in the Laboratory of Environmental Services of the National University of Chimborazo. The macro-invertebrate samples were collected for classification. The average flow obtained was 2.89 [m3 /s]. as a result the water quality according it the WQI index was GOOD, with the index BMWP/Col was GOOD and finally, the ABI index was OK. The applied indexes were compared, and it was concluded that the ABI index in the most appropriate for heights between 2000 and 4000 m. asl. Since the zone of the micro basin of the Yasipan River has a height in its initial point of 3513 m. asl. And its end a height of 3292 m. asl. Finally, and bese don the results, an adequate management of the agricultural frontier and environmental education in recommended for the improvement of water quality.