Characterization of the recharge zone of the De Marcos River

Abstract

The objective of this work was to characterize the recharge zone of the De Marcos River, evaluating its physicochemical and microbiological quality and the integrity of the ecosystem through the study of macroinvertebrates. This approach is crucial due to the growing concern for the conservation of water resources and the preservation of river ecosystems. The methodology used included systematic sampling of physicochemical, microbiological and macroinvertebrate analysis at different points in the recharge zone, followed by physicochemical, microbiological and macroinvertebrate analysis. The results reveal water quality in dissolved oxygen, temperature and suspended solids within acceptable limits, although concerns were identified for turbidity, pH and the presence of fecal coliforms. However, macroinvertebrate analysis indicates favorable ecological integrity, with significant diversity and the presence of indicator species of good water quality. In conclusion, the De Marcos River reports values within the permissible limits in most parameters and the analysis of macroinvertebrates indicates good water quality.