Research Article Open Access

Biological assessment of water quality in Erzeni and Ishmi Rivers in Albania, using as biological indicators, different groups of macro invertebrates, during 2011 - 2012

Abstract

Erzeni and Ishmi Rivers flow in central Albania. The geographical position and geologic composition of Rivers basin have a specific study importance. The areas where the Rivers flows have been areas of many changes and developments lately, influencing the aquatic ecosystem in general and mainly impacting the water quality. For the biological assessment of Rivers water quality different groups of macro invertebrates are used. They are good indicators of biodiversity and habitat quality and their presence is closely connected with the general ecological status of the river ecosystem. (Lee N. 2003). Benthic macro invertebrates are determined as crucial elements and have a great importance in the biological assessment of water quality (Water Framework Directive - WFD). In this study the water quality results are given for two years of monitoring (2011 – 2012) in three sampling stations for each River in Albania. The paper presents the aquatic ecosystem situation based on data gathered on insect and invertebrate fauna. From the analyses of data is important to mention the presence of benthic sensitive organisms (Environmental Protection Agency- USA) in the sampling stations in Erzeni River, while this group of invertebrates is missing in monitoring stations in Ishmi River. Two other groups, benthic invertebrates with a medium tolerance toward pollution and tolerant taxons were present in both Rivers. Beside the classification of species according their tolerance, Biotic Index is calculated based on all the macro invertebrate groups found in each River.

Erjola Keçi, Anila Paparisto, Bledar Pepa

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