Water quality assessment using biological indicators in Cane River - Colombia

Abstract

This study shows the results of a water quality assessment for the Basin of the Cane River, which belongs to Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary National Natural Park, a naturally protected area formed by the Andean Forest and paramo ecosystems in Colombia. The water quality of this river is impacted by agricultural runoff and domestic wastewater from human activities in the buffer area. This was assessed by using chemical, physical, and biological indexes. The IDEAM, NSF and water quality indexes were based on the European standards of measurement. Further to this, BMPW/Col and ETP biological indexes were analyzed and, amongst these, IDEAM WQI (Water quality index) and ETP showed a good correlation. A similar trend was found between the IDEAM water quality index and BMWP/Col index, showing their potential as a good tool for water catchment, diagnosis, assessment, and management in Andean paramo basins. In total, 537 specimens of macroinvertebrates were collected, identifying 8 taxonomic orders, 16 families and 18 genera. Predominant orders were Trichoptera, Ephemeroptera, and Diptera. Baetidae and Planariidae taxas were found in the three water quality levels, showing a decrease in number with a decrease in water quality. Thus, both species have shown sensibility to water quality parameters and also to riverine habitat quality, being then interesting species to determine water quality, deserving more detailed studies for similar cases in high Andean forests and paramo basins.