Comprehensive analysis of water quality in the middle and lower basin of the Marquesote River Colombian

Abstract

Different biotic indices have been used for the integral analysis of hydrographic basins in Colombia, using benthic microinverters and physicochemical parameters. A comprehensive analysis of water quality was performed in the low Marquesote river basin, using benthic macroinvertebrates and the ETP index (Ephemeroptera-Trichoptera-Plecoptera) as a biological indicator and some physicochemical parameters. Work was worked on the middle and lower basin on the Marquesote River at two times of the year (dry and rainy); standardized methods for water physicochemical variables were applied, for benthic fauna collected using a Surber network, and identifying them up to the taxonomic level of family. The study observed 22 families and 1388 individuals, where 49% represent PTSD, indicating regular water quality; however, physicochemical variables had wide variation, noting that pH showed the greatest variability based on an analysis of major components. Environmental quality in the Marquesote river basin is compromised according to the indicators used, a more detailed study of the sources of pollution and dynamics of macroinvertebrates could provide a greater ecological knowledge of the basin.