Microcrustacean bioindicators for rapid assessment of freshwater body quality
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Abstract
The use of microcrustaceans as bioindicators for the rapid assessment of water quality in the Almendares-Vento basin, Cuba, was evaluated. Twelve sampling sites were selected, where physicochemical variables were measured with a multiparameter meter, and water quality was classified into four categories (pure to heavily polluted). Microcrustacean collection was carried out with a plankton net (500 m hauls) to determine filtered relative density (FRD) and species presence-absence. The results showed the presence of Thermocyclops inversus, Homocyclops ater, Homocyclops albidus, and Daphnia pulex. D. pulex was the most predominant species (34.2% of the total) and the only one present at all sites, including heavily polluted ones. The three copepod species were absent in heavily polluted waters, demonstrating sensitivity at the presence-absence level. An inversely proportional relationship was established between the degree of contamination and the percentage of individuals. FRD ranges (ind/L) were determined for each water quality category, both for the species assemblage (0.00-1.00 ind/L) and for each species individually. It is concluded that all four species are population bioindicators. T. inversus, H. ater, and H. albidus are absence indicators in heavily polluted waters. The tolerance ranges for these species were established, validating their use as a rapid and effective tool for water quality monitoring in freshwater ecosystems.
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