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Aquatic macroinvertebrates and their importance as water quality bioindicators in the Chimehuín River, Patagonia, Argentina.
Organization(s):Science Club Huechulafquen (After School)
Country:Argentina
Student(s):PEPE, Marianela
MARTÍNEZ, Lucio Daniel
WEHINGER, Juan
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Teacher:Ana Beatriz Prieto
Contributors:IMHOF, Jack
Report Type(s):International Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Air Temperature, Precipitation, Wind, Soil Characterization, Soil Fertility, Soil Moisture - Gravimetric
Presentation Poster:
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Optional Badges:I am a Collaborator, I make an Impact, I work with a STEM Professional
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Date Submitted:02/24/2018
In 2015, the Calbuco volcano erupted depositing ashes in the region, with Junín de los Andes being the most affected area. Previously, in 2011, Puyehue volcano erupted scattering more ash, but this area was little affected.
The Andes has numerous volcanoes that have generated great impacts on ecosystems and human activities: land and air transportation (at great distances), communications, infrastructure, agricultural activities, health, water sources.
In summer 2015 an investigation of benthic macroinvertebrates in the Chimehuín River had been carried out, which served as a basis to study the effect generated by the perturbation of the fallen ashes. In summers 2016 and 2017 a sampling of water quality and macroinvertebrate populations was carried out in seven sites of the river Chimehuín to compare its state with the 2015 and to observe anthropic impacts and of the volcanic ashes.
The results indicate verifiable alterations at five sampling sites that can be attributed to ashes but also coincide with areas that have historical anthropic impact (urban areas, campgrounds) and in areas where there were soil movements that increased disturbance. This impact was detected in macroinvertebrate populations most sensitive to changes in water quality.