Bioindicators of Pollution

ecological status of the water stream under investigation. Indeed, benthic macroinvertebrates are the most widely used group for the biological monitoring of streams and rivers around the world (Bonada et al. 2006). Tolerance values (TVs) are commonly used in the US, Europe, South Africa, and Australia. However, the scoring system of TVs differs from one region to another. Benthic macroinvertebrates are significant bioindicators of the health of any water stream, and since some species are categorized based on how sensitive they are to pollution, their

The bioconcentration potential of fluoxetine (FLX) and its biological effects were investigated in juvenile Pacific oyster exposed for 28 days to environmentally relevant concentrations of FLX (1 ng L(-1), 100 ng L(-1) and up to 10 μg L(-1)). FLX bioaccumulated in oyster flesh resulting in 28-day bioconcentration factors greater than 2,000 and 10,000 by referring to wet and dry weights, respectively. Nevertheless, FLX did not induce oyster mortality, delayed gametogenesis, or lead to adverse histopathological alterations. At the two highest concentrations, despite non-optimal trophic conditions, FLX stimulated shell growth but only in a transient manner, suggesting a role of serotonin in the regulation of feeding and metabolism in bivalves. Those high concentrations seemed to drive bell-shaped responses of catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities throughout the exposure period, which may indicate the activation of antioxidant enzyme synthesis and then an enhanced catabolic ...

The present study was aimed at assessing the potential of two important plants of the Transcaucasia – Betula medwediewii Regel (Caucasian birch) and Veratrum album L. (white hellebore) - as bioindicators of pollution of the environment. Betula medwediewii is a subalpine and alpine deciduous tree species that is significant for soil and habitat development. Veratrum album is found in the high altitude regions, is also known to withstand extreme conditions and has been used in herbal medicine. Elemental analysis was conducted on the plant leaves for total heavy metals such as aluminium, cadmium, cobalt, lead, and zinc. Results of the study showed that, in the leaves of B. medwediewii, aluminium, cadmium, and zinc heavy metals were found to be within permissible levels but levels of cobalt and lead were above permissible levels. For V. album cadmium and zinc also remained within the normal range but aluminum, cobalt and lead levels were notably high. The results of the study indicate the distinct accumulation characteristics that these species possess a unique behaviour in the presence of heavy metal pollution in the Transcaucasian environment and both plants have a potential capability as bio indicators.

The effectiveness of tree species as bioindicators/biomonitors depends on appropriate selection based on their tolerance and sensitivity to air pollution, which is usually evaluated by the air pollution tolerance index (APTI). Despite the importance of the APTI in screening tree species for biomonitoring, there are still limitations to its usefulness in green belt establishment/management. Therefore, this study combined the APTI and anticipated performance index (API) to evaluate the potential of some tree species commonly growing on the campus of the University of Ilorin, north-central Nigeria, for green belt development. The study revealed that the APTI alone is not adequate for determining the suitability of tree species for green belt development, although it can be employed to identify sensitive plants for biomonitoring. The combination of the APTI and API in this study is a practical approach to developing a sink for air pollution control. The API indicated that Vitellaria paradoxa (API = 4) is a good performer in green belt development, while Terminalia catappa, Acacia nilotica and Prosopis africana (API = 3) are moderate performers. The present study suggests that integration of both the plant tolerance and performance indices for selection of tree species is very useful for the development of a green belt.

Industrialization and population growth are the important factors for the deterioration of air quality in the current scenario. Air pollution monitoring using plants as bioindicators is the best and cheapest way. Oxidative stress induced on plants due to air pollution can be studied using antioxidant peroxidase enzyme activity. The present study aims at the comparative assessment of peroxidase activity of twelve plant species from the Chembur industrial area and less polluted zone of similar ecological conditions for two years. The peroxidase activity was determined using the spectrophotometric method. The observations based on the current investigation revealed a rise in the peroxidase activity of twelve plant species of the industrial zone as compared to the less polluted zone. It may indicate an increase in the resistant capacity of all experimental samples toward the oxidative stress caused due to air pollution. Plant species like Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth, Ricinus communis L., Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit., Albizia saman (Jacq.) Merr, Thespesia populnea (L.) Sol. ex. Correa, Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites, Prosopis juliflora (SW.) DC., Terminalia catappa L. showed higher peroxidase activity values and hence may be used as bioindicators. Thespesia populnea (L.) Sol. ex. Correa, Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites and Terminalia catappa L. being evergreen plants may be planted in good numbers in the Chembur industrial area. It may act as a primary step to ameliorate the industrial air pollution in the Chembur industrial zone by enhancing the green zone. This kind of investigation with other factors may help us to sustain our mother nature for future generations.

Fluoride (F) is considered one of the most phytotoxic pollutants, even when present in low concentrations. When dispersed in the air, F can be transported to about 100 km from the polluting source, reaching plants, animals and humans and causing serious damage. Nevertheless, studies are still scarce on the effect of fluoride in Cerrado species integrating morphological, anatomical and physiological responses. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of simulated rainfall containing potassium fluoride (KF) on Hancornia speciosa leaves and roots, to determine its bioaccumulator potential. Young plants at approximately 45 days of emergence were treated daily with simulated KF rain at four concentrations (0, 4, 8 and 12 mg L −1), and four replicates. The experiment was carried out for 40 days, in completely randomized design. After KF exposure, visual, morphological and chlorophyll a fluorescence analyses were performed, alongside fluoride accumulation assessments in roots and shoots. Hancornia speciosa did not present any visual, anatomical and physiological symptoms in response to fluoride; however, it showed an accumulation of phenolic compounds in mesophyll root and leaf cells in all treatments. Physiological characteristic preservation and fluoride accumulation in roots and leaves allow us to suggest that Hancornia speciosa displays tolerance potential at the investigated doses.

Background Fluoride pollution is a global problem because of its high phytotoxicity. Fluoride is released in air, water and soil through industrial processes, where it damages various plant species. Ricinus communis is widely distributed in Brazil, India and China and has been extensively used as a phytoremediation species in heavy metal-contaminated soils. However, few studies regarding the effect of air pollutants on R. communis have been published, and no information about the exposure of this species to fluoride is available. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of fluoride on R. communis morphoanatomical and physiological responses using simulated rainfall containing potassium fluoride (KF). Methods Young plants at approximately 10 days after emergence were treated daily with KF using simulated rainfall at 0, 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mg L−1, for 37 consecutive days. Chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchange, anatomical characteristics and fluoride accum...

Fluoride is the atmospheric pollutant with the highest phytotoxicity arising from aluminum smelting fertilizers, glass and, ceramic industry. The most affected plant organ is the leaf, in which the fluoride penetrates through two main ways: absorption by epidermis cuticle or absorption by stomata. Species susceptible to fluoride are potential tools in bioindicator studies because they provide a means for detecting the presence of the pollutant in the environment at a low cost. The aim of this study is to evaluate the sensibility of Spondias purpurea L. (Anacardiaceae) to fluoride through the simulated fog. Simulation was performed by applying 500 ml of solution containing 15 mg L −1 of potassium fluoride per plant for 20 min daily and for 10 consecutive days. The data of leaflet abscission, visual damage, and climate conditions were recorded daily. At the end of the experiment, data from the cell death analysis, electrolyte leakage determination, and accumulation of the fluoride in the dried matter were collected. Moreover, samples for phenolic compound accumulation, anatomical, and micromorphological analyses were collected. After 24 h, the appearance of visible damage was observed in the leaves with fluoride treatment. This damage consisted, mostly, of necrosis, chlorosis, and leaf apical shriveling. The necroses manifested in gray and brown discoloration. Leaf abscission was intense in the young leaves. Microscopic damage consisted of protoplast retraction, phenolic compound accumulation, collapse, hyperplasia, and cell rupture. Turgidity loss, epicuticular wax erosion, and damage of stomata and trichomes beyond the presence of fungal hyphae were noted in the epidermis. Evans Blue detected dead cell groups in the transition region between the necrosis and the apparent healthy area. Fluoride affected the selective permeability of the membrane, which was observed in this study according to the high rate of electrolyte leakage. Plants exposed to fluoride accumulated 14.48 times more fluoride in their leaves than plants in the control group. It follows that S. purpurea is susceptible to fluoride and responds quickly to the presence of this pollutant. Marginal and apical necrosis, presence of phenolic compounds, fluoride accumulation, anatomical alterations, and leaflet abscission in the young leaves are biomarkers of fluoride effects in this species. Therefore, S. purpurea is potentially useful in biomonitoring programs.

There is a scarcity of data regarding algal flora of Tigris River in the territory of Baghdad. The present study deals with Tigris River in Al-Dora site in Baghdad province from November 2014 to June 2015 in order to shed light on its epiphytic Algae on (Phragmites australis) and epipelic algae. An amount of 183 and 154 species of epiphytic and epipelic algae are identified respectfully. The Bacillariophyceae (diatoms) are the dominant algal group followed by Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae. Moreover, 90 species are shared between two groups of algae (epiphytic and epipelic) and identified at the study site. Additionally, the seasonal variations and diversity of algal species are noticed. The highest number of epiphytic algae is 772.05 x 104 (cell/gm) in winter and the lowest number is 161.13 x 104 (cell/gm) in Summer; where as the highest number of epipelic algae is 20.07 x 104 (cell/ cm²) in Winter and the lowest number is 6.53 x 104 (cell/ cm²) in Summer.

Lotic ecosystem monitoring is important to avoid pollution risks, safeguard biodiversity, and maintain ecosystem health. In this essence, it is impossible to ignore the involvement of epiphytic microalgae in riverine monitoring. Two host plants, such as the common reed, Phragmites australis, which is primarily found in marsh grasses, and the submerged, free-floating hornwort, Ceratophyllum demersum, were chosen for this study. The estimation of various biodiversity metrics, including Brillouin, Dominance (D), Equitability (J), Evenness (e^H/S), Margalef, Menhinick, Shannon (H), and Simpson (1-D), were conducted in Diyala River, Diyala province, Iraq, using data covering the four seasons. One hundred and forty-four taxa of epiphytic algae on both host plants were recorded. Among them, diatoms (Bacillariophyta) were the predominant group of algae on both plants comprising 84% and 92% of C. demersum and P. australis, respectively, followed by Cyanophyceae (3-25%) and Chlorophyceae (3-42%). Preferences of algae on particular host plants were observed. A spatial and temporal of epiphyton algae was observed on the plants. Some epiphyton species, such as Gomphonema paravalum, Ulnaria acus, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Navicula gregaria, and Nitzschia amphibian arerecorded in the river and are considered bioindicators for determining the water quality. By applying the recommended indices as mentioned in the text you have to recognize the trophic, saprobic, and halobic status of the investigated area based on the identified species. Based on the overall outputs of this study it is anticipated that the Diyala River is getting a pollution load; the level of pollution must be determined (betamesosaprobic, alpha mesosaprobic, polysaprobic) that needs to be overcome.

There is a scarcity of data regarding algal flora of Tigris River in the territory of Baghdad. The present study deals with Tigris River in Al-Dora site in Baghdad province from November 2014 to June 2015 in order to shed light on its epiphytic Algae on (Phragmites australis) and epipelic algae. An amount of 183 and 154 species of epiphytic and epipelic algae are identified respectfully. The Bacillariophyceae (diatoms) are the dominant algal group followed by Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae. Moreover, 90 species are shared between two groups of algae (epiphytic and epipelic) and identified at the study site. Additionally, the seasonal variations and diversity of algal species are noticed. The highest number of epiphytic algae is 772.05 x 104 (cell/gm) in winter and the lowest number is 161.13 x 104 (cell/gm) in Summer; where as the highest number of epipelic algae is 20.07 x 104 (cell/ cm²) in Winter and the lowest number is 6.53 x 104 (cell/ cm²) in Summer.

Lotic ecosystem monitoring is important to avoid pollution risks, safeguard biodiversity, and maintain ecosystem health. In this essence, it is impossible to ignore the involvement of epiphytic microalgae in riverine monitoring. Two host plants, such as the common reed, Phragmites australis, which is primarily found in marsh grasses, and the submerged, free-floating hornwort, Ceratophyllum demersum, were chosen for this study. The estimation of various biodiversity metrics, including Brillouin, Dominance (D), Equitability (J), Evenness (e^H/S), Margalef, Menhinick, Shannon (H), and Simpson (1-D), were conducted in Diyala River, Diyala province, Iraq, using data covering the four seasons. One hundred and forty-four taxa of epiphytic algae on both host plants were recorded. Among them, diatoms (Bacillariophyta) were the predominant group of algae on both plants comprising 84% and 92% of C. demersum and P. australis, respectively, followed by Cyanophyceae (3- 25%) and Chlorophyceae (3- 42%). Preferences of algae on particular host plants were observed. A spatial and temporal of epiphyton algae was
observed on the plants. Some epiphyton species, such as Gomphonema
paravalum, Ulnaria acus, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Navicula gregaria, and Nitzschia amphibian arerecorded in the river and are considered bioindicators for determining the water quality. By applying the recommended indices as mentioned in the text you have to
recognize the trophic, saprobic, and halobic status of the investigated area based on the identified species. Based on the overall outputs of this study it is anticipated that the Diyala River is getting a pollution load; the level of pollution must be determined (betamesosaprobic,alpha mesosaprobic, polysaprobic) that needs to be overcome.

Anthropogenic plastic litter is widespread in all environments, with particular emphasis on aquatic habitats. Specifically, although freshwater mammals are important as they are at the top of food web, research mainly focus on marine animals, while only few studies have been carried out on freshwater mammals. The main gap is that microplastics (MP) are completely understudied in freshwater mammals. Here, we reported the first evidence of the presence of anthropogenic particles (including MP) in coypu (Myocastor coypus)’ faeces. Coypu is a rodent mammal inhabiting rivers and wetland areas, and we discussed our preliminary data suggesting the use of these tracks as possible future bioindicator of MP pollution in wetlands and freshwaters. We collected 30 coypu’s faeces in “Torre Flavia wetland” nature reserve. Then, in laboratory, faeces were digested in 30 ml hydrogen peroxide (30%) for a week a 20 °C and analysed under stereoscope. All the suspected found MP were isolated in a petri ...

The study was conducted in Karasu Stream (Sinop Province, Black Sea Region of Turkey). The purpose of this study is, to determine the benthic macroinvertebrate composition of the stream, together with some of its environmental characteristics (water temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen) to evaluate the trophic level of the stream. Samplings of benthic macroinvertebrates and environmental variables were performed monthly at ten stations between February 2013 and January 2014. As a result, 18260 specimens were investigated and 175 taxa were determined. Chironomidae and Oligochaeta were the higher groups in terms of species richness with 48 and 38 taxa, respectively. The BMWP and ASPT indices indicate that all the stations belong to "slightly polluted (Class II)" or "unpolluted (Class I)" water quality levels.

In Mersin (Tarsus-Anamur Coastline), four seasons' vegetation samples are gathered from around 20 estuaries and diatom percentages are determined. Mostly Navicula, Pinnularia, Gomphonema, Synedra, Nitzchia and also Triceratum, Cyclotella, Cymbella, Coconeis, Diatoma, Amphora, Gyrosigma, Licmophora species have been observed. The other determined organisms are bacteria and algae parts, as Vaucheria, Pediastrum, Pandorina, Peridinium, Phacus and Euglena which are seen in almost all rivers, and Ankistrodesmus, Kirchneriella species, which are found in Kuyuluk Creek.Over the past two years, the Metropolitan Municipality paved the riverbeds with concrete to prevent flooding, and depending on the increased population and settlement, water pollution has started to emerge. That is why the periodic inspections are of the utmost importance. For 2013-2014, the data of Paşasuyu, Göksu and Tarsus rivers demonstrate a clearer picture. We believe that this research will increase the interest in the river ecosystems of Mersin, contributing to future researches in this field.

Monitoring the condition of aquatic ecosystems is important because they provide ecological goods and services on which human beings depend. The present study analyzed the physico-chemical parameters and nutrients enrichment in rivers Kisat and Auji as well as wastewater sedimentation ponds to inform appropriate management measures. The water samples were collected from eight sampling sites starting at the source running downstream and at the wastewater sedimentation ponds beginning from February to October 2021. The physico-chemical parameters were measured in situ, while nutrients were analyzed at the laboratory. The results of the study indicated inconsistencies in the variation of physico-chemical parameters and nutrients enrichment among the sampling sites. The results revealed that dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), salinity (sal), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity and total nitrogen (TN) showed significance difference between the sites. Similarly princ...

Samples from two sites of the surface of Dokan Lake were collected monthly over period of 8 months for physico-chemical analysis of water and investigated algal compositions. In this context, several limnological parameters were evaluated during the period from September 2008 to April 2009. The included physical and chemical parameters were: Air and water temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, pH, alkalinity, total hardness, dissolved oxygen, Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , Na + , K + , SO 4-, Cl-, and the concentrations of nitrite and phosphate. The study revealed that the air and water temperature ranged from 10 to 33 °C and 9 to 30 °C , respectively. Conductivity was in the range of 240-430 µS/cm, TDS was 161 to 280 mg/L, pH range was 7.3 to 8.0. Dissolved oxygen ranged between 5.5 to 9.2 mg/L. Calcium and magnesium concentrations varied from 30 to 52mg/L and 14 to 24 mg/L, respectively. Potassium and sodium ranged between 3.8-6.0 mg/L and 1.1-2.2 mg/L, respectively. Sulfate value varied from 130-224 mg/L and ranged between 18-25 mg/L for chloride. High value of nitrate was recorded. A total of 30 species of algae were recorded of which 14 species belong to Bacillariophyceae, 8 species belong to Chlorophyceae, 5 species to Cyanophyceae, 2 species to Pyrophyta, and one species to Euglenophyceae.

Fish harbor a high diversity of parasites that play an important role for the ecosystem. Because these parasites have different life-cycle traits, changes in their populations or communities may provide useful information related to ecosystem health. Highly stressful conditions may reduce parasite communities or populations. However, it is not a rule since host-parasite interactions are hardly predictable. In this study, macroparasites of the fish sailfin molly (Poecilia velifera) from three sites (conserved, degraded and under restoration) located within a mangrove wetland area, in the Terminos Lagoon (southern Gulf of Mexico), were analyzed in order to determine their potential use as bioindicators. A total of 198 fish were examined for parasites. Six parasite species were found: two crustaceans (Argulus sp. and Ergasilus aff. cerastes), one trematode (Centrocestus formosanus), one monogenean (Gyrodactylus sp.) and two nematodes (Contracaecum sp. and Cuculanus sp.). There were no significant differences in the structure of parasite infracommunities as well as in prevalence and intensity of parasite populations between degraded and conserved sites. However, the site under restoration had poorer infracommunities and smaller populations of crustaceans and trematodes, which suggests that restoration efforts have not improved the ecological conditions. Based on these results, it is conjectured that parasites of P. velifera did not show useful information to provide a diagnosis related to ecosystem health. Beyond this ecological subject, the present study represents new host record for most parasite species found.

Monitoring the condition of aquatic ecosystems is important because they provide ecological goods and services on which human beings depend. The present study analyzed the physico-chemical parameters and nutrients enrichment in rivers Kisat and Auji as well as wastewater sedimentation ponds to inform appropriate management measures. The water samples were collected from eight sampling sites starting at the source running downstream and at the wastewater sedimentation ponds beginning from February to October 2021. The physico-chemical parameters were measured in situ, while nutrients were analyzed at the laboratory. The results of the study indicated inconsistencies in the variation of physico-chemical parameters and nutrients enrichment among the sampling sites. The results revealed that dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), salinity (sal), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity and total nitrogen (TN) showed significance difference between the sites. Similarly princ...

Monitoring the condition of aquatic ecosystems is important because they provide ecological goods and services on which human beings depend. The present study analyzed the physico-chemical parameters and nutrients enrichment in rivers Kisat and Auji as well as wastewater sedimentation ponds to inform appropriate management measures. The water samples were collected from eight sampling sites starting at the source running downstream and at the wastewater sedimentation ponds beginning from February to October 2021. The physico-chemical parameters were measured in situ, while nutrients were analyzed at the laboratory. The results of the study indicated inconsistencies in the variation of physico-chemical parameters and nutrients enrichment among the sampling sites. The results revealed that dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), salinity (sal), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity and total nitrogen (TN) showed significance difference between the sites. Similarly princ...

Euryhaline animals from estuaries, such as the oyster Crassostrea brasiliana, show physiological mechanisms of adaptation to tolerate salinity changes. These ecosystems receive constant input of xenobiotics from urban areas, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), such as phenanthrene (PHE). In order to understand the influence of salinity on the molecular responses of C. brasiliana exposed to PHE, oysters were acclimatized to different salinities (35, 25 and 10) for 15days and then exposed to 100μgL(-1) PHE for 24h and 96h. Control groups were kept at the same salinities without PHE. Oysters were sampled for chemical analysis and the gills were excised for mRNA quantification by qPCR. Transcript levels of different genes were measured, including some involved in oxidative stress pathways, phases I and II of the xenobiotic biotransformation systems, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator putative gene. Higher transc...

Fish harbor a high diversity of parasites that play an important role for the ecosystem. Because these parasites have different life-cycle traits, changes in their populations or communities may provide useful information related to ecosystem health. Highly stressful conditions may reduce parasite communities or populations. However, it is not a rule since host-parasite interactions are hardly predictable. In this study, macroparasites of the fish sailfin molly (Poecilia velifera) from three sites (conserved, degraded and under restoration) located within a mangrove wetland area, in the Terminos Lagoon (southern Gulf of Mexico), were analyzed in order to determine their potential use as bioindicators. A total of 198 fish were examined for parasites. Six parasite species were found: two crustaceans (Argulus sp. and Ergasilus aff. cerastes), one trematode (Centrocestus formosanus), one monogenean (Gyrodactylus sp.) and two nematodes (Contracaecum sp. and Cuculanus sp.). There were no significant differences in the structure of parasite infracommunities as well as in prevalence and intensity of parasite populations between degraded and conserved sites. However, the site under restoration had poorer infracommunities and smaller populations of crustaceans and trematodes, which suggests that restoration efforts have not improved the ecological conditions. Based on these results, it is conjectured that parasites of P. velifera did not show useful information to provide a diagnosis related to ecosystem health. Beyond this ecological subject, the present study represents new host record for most parasite species found.

The current study was conducted to identify and study the spatial and seasonal variations of diatoms in some sites in Shaqlawa district in Erbil province for the period from September 2021 to August 2022 and considered the first attempt to identify diatoms in these sites and also considered as an intensive study of the various species of the diatoms under different environmental conditions. Eighteen; sites were selected, of which twelve are in springs, and six of which are along the stream, as well as use indices to evaluate the water quality, such as Shannon Wiener indicators (H), and Jaccard similarity indices (SJ), 57 species of diatoms were identified at eighteen sites, where central diatoms were of two species while pennies diatoms reached fifty-five species. The highest; number of diatoms species was recorded in springs, including site three, and the lower number was identified at site ten. Diatoma; hiemal, D. moniliformis, Fragilaria construes, F. crotonesis, Ulnaria ulna, Cocconeis pediculus, Navicula radiosa, Gyrosigma acuminatum, Nitzschia dubia, Cymbella excise, Gomphonema olivaceous, Surirella oval is considered more dominant than others diatoms species. According to; to Shannon Wiener, indicators (H), a great diversity was obtained in sites 3 and 18. In contrast, lower diversity was observed in sites 5, 10 and 17. According to; to seasons, the maximum diversity was recorded in October-2021, and the minimum variety was calculated in January-2022. The highest similarity rate between Sites 3 and 4 was 29.0%, while the lowest similarity rate between Sites 1 and 10 was 7.9%. Generally, the similarity rate between the sites is considered quiet.

Research Proposal:
Using some species of birds
Wetland as bioindicators of heavy metals in the Al
Dalmaj Marsh in southern Iraq.
Software of Biostatistics
Map of the World
IRAQ
Other Countries
Why did we choose our study of
wetlands Al Dalmaj as a study
area?
Marshes hold significant ecological
value as one of the world's most
important ecosystems,
characterized by their exceptional
biodiversity. Furthermore, they are
recognized as an economic asset
that supports both the Iraqi and
global economy.
•
Rest stop thousand of the birds
Migration
5
Element of
Heavy Metals
•
SPSS Program
•
Minitab Program
Modelling of Ecological
•
Linear Regression
•
ANOVA
•
Surface Response
2024
December to February
Analysis in Laboratory.
•
Dehydration
•
Digestion
•
Filtration
•
Measurement in AAS
2024
February to March
Analysis Biostatistics
Interpretation
2024
March to July
Writing Manuscript
Research Problems:
Is wetland birds as Bioindicators of Heavy
metals pollution in IRAQ?
Research Hypothesis:
Q
1 What is species of Wetland Birds ( WB ) as Bioindicators of Heavy Metals
Pollution ( HMP ) in Iraq?
The expected results
•
The diurnal species of wetland birds are identified as effective
bioindicators of heavy metals.
•
The nocturnal species of wetland birds are identified as effective
bioindicators of heavy metals.
•
Both the diurnal and nocturnal species of wetland birds are found
to be non bioindicators of heavy metals pollution.
ⓒ
AHMED AWAD

Why did choose of Diurnal species &
Nocturnal species
•
We will select two species due to the
continuous activities of birds during both
daytime and nighttime, which is highly
relevant to the research on bioindicators of
heavy metals. This is because birds play a
crucial role in the food chain, with their
feeding habits occurring twice and spanning
across different trophic levels.

The present work reviews the different biomarkers and organisms that have been used to assess pollution in aquatic ecosystems of Mexico in the last 16 years. Ninety-three publications were reviewed; they showed that 70 species, most of them native (70%), have been used for this purpose. Fish have been the most commonly used group, but other non-conventional organisms have also been used. Biomarkers of oxidative stress such as catalase and superoxide dismutase activity, as well as cellular lipid peroxidation, were the most widely used and versatile. Those used less frequently included Acetylcholinesterase, Ethoxyresorufin-Odeethylase or Metallothionein. The omic approach was used for Cytochrome P450, Vitellogenin and heat shock proteins. Sixty-two percent of the species were used only on one occasion during the period studied here, while 13% were used more than twice. Girardinichthys viviparrus and Goodea atripinnis were the most frequently used species due to their regional endemism, but their use was restricted to the center of the country. Forty-four percent of the studies evaluated the data from at least two weather stations, and only 10% of the studies monitored pollution levels during more than two seasonal cycles. In Mexico, traditional and omic biomarkers are commonly used by researchers; however, further investigation is needed to determine which species and biomarkers should be used for each region and particular situation. It requires a joint effort between research centers and public funding agencies for the development of regional and national monitoring networks.

The present study was conducted on spring-fed(Abdullah Abu-Nadjem Oasis)west of Al-Dewanyah province,Iraq. ,during Winter 2007. The results indicate that water quality was neutral tend to be slightly alkaline pH was 7.7 and 7.4 for station(1)and station (2) respectively. Total hardness value of water about 1520 and 1488 mg/l.for two stations respectively ,This high values of hardness may be due to Calcium ions 397.5 and 395.5mg/l.for two stations. According to Salinity values (1.58-2.22) ‰(ppt) ,water of oasis may be classified as brackish water, the oasis water was well aerated dissolved oxygen was 5.3 and 7.4 mg/l. On the other hand about (58) algal taxa were recorded in this study Diatoms(Bacillariophyceae)were the dominant microalgae (58.6%),followed by blue greens(Cyanophyceae)(20.6%),While the Chlorophyceae and Charophyceae were the lower in occurrence .The dominant of Diatoms was recorded in most of Iraqi inland water bodies.,

Fluoride (F) is considered one of the most phytotoxic pollutants, even when present in low concentrations. When dispersed in the air, F can be transported to about 100 km from the polluting source, reaching plants, animals and humans and causing serious damage. Nevertheless, studies are still scarce on the effect of fluoride in Cerrado species integrating morphological, anatomical and physiological responses. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of simulated rainfall containing potassium fluoride (KF) on Hancornia speciosa leaves and roots, to determine its bioaccumulator potential. Young plants at approximately 45 days of emergence were treated daily with simulated KF rain at four concentrations (0, 4, 8 and 12 mg L −1), and four replicates. The experiment was carried out for 40 days, in completely randomized design. After KF exposure, visual, morphological and chlorophyll a fluorescence analyses were performed, alongside fluoride accumulation assessments in roots and shoots. Hancornia speciosa did not present any visual, anatomical and physiological symptoms in response to fluoride; however, it showed an accumulation of phenolic compounds in mesophyll root and leaf cells in all treatments. Physiological characteristic preservation and fluoride accumulation in roots and leaves allow us to suggest that Hancornia speciosa displays tolerance potential at the investigated doses.

Background Fluoride pollution is a global problem because of its high phytotoxicity. Fluoride is released in air, water and soil through industrial processes, where it damages various plant species. Ricinus communis is widely distributed in Brazil, India and China and has been extensively used as a phytoremediation species in heavy metal-contaminated soils. However, few studies regarding the effect of air pollutants on R. communis have been published, and no information about the exposure of this species to fluoride is available. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of fluoride on R. communis morphoanatomical and physiological responses using simulated rainfall containing potassium fluoride (KF). Methods Young plants at approximately 10 days after emergence were treated daily with KF using simulated rainfall at 0, 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mg L−1, for 37 consecutive days. Chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchange, anatomical characteristics and fluoride accum...

Ecological contamination by air pollutants is a worldwide problem. Fluoride-based compounds are released in large proportions into the atmosphere, soil and water from various industrial sources. These compounds are more phytotoxic to various plants than are other pollutants. The objective of this work was to determine the effects of fluoride in the form of potassium fluoride (KF)-simulated rain, on morphological and physiological responses, macronutrient content and fluoride accumulation in Spondias mombin leaves. S. mombin seedlings were transplanted to 5-liter pots containing Bioplant® substrate in a greenhouse. After acclimatization, the plants were subjected to KF, through simulated rain, at concentrations of 0, 10, 20 and 30 mg L −1 , for a period of 9 days. Subsequently, visual and anatomical evaluations, chlorophyll a fluorescence variables, gas exchange, fluoride accumulation and macronutrient content were performed in all plants. KF-treated S. mombin developed necrosis on leaf surfaces with damage of up to 70%, followed by parenchymal tissue alterations characterized by cellular collapse and accumulation of phenolic compounds. We observed photochemical and macronutrient content changes that may compromise development of these plants. The correlation between the analyses suggested that noninvasive characteristics are important tools for detecting environmental pollution, and that S. mombin is an important bioindicator of KF-contaminated environments.

Native Cerrado plants are exposed to soils with low pH and high availability of Al. In this study, we measured the Al content in adult plants, and investigated the effects of various Al doses on germination and early development of Eugenia dysenterica plants. For germination tests, the seeds were soaked in Al solution and evaluated for twenty days in growth chambers. In a second experiment, young plants were cultivated in hydroponic systems with various Al concentrations to evaluate the morphological, anatomical and physiological characteristics of E. dysenterica. Anatomical changes and low germinative vigor were observed in seeds germinated in 600 and 800 μmol Al3+ L−1. In the hydroponic system, 200 μmol Al3+ L−1 stimulated root growth in young plants. The activity of antioxidant enzymes and the accumulation of phenolic compounds were greatest at the highest Al doses, preventing changes in gas exchange and chlorophyll a fluorescence. Starch grain accumulation was noted in plant cel...

Fluoride is one of the main phytotoxic pollutants released into the atmosphere. It can be released in the form of potassium fluoride by brick, ceramic, phosphate mineral and aluminum industries, causing damage to different plant species. Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindaceae) is widely distributed throughout Brazil, and has been used both in the recovery of degraded areas and in urban afforestation. In this context, the aim of the present study was to determine S. saponaria bioindicator potential through morpho-anatomical and physiological responses after simulated rainfall with potassium fluoride. Young S. saponaria individuals, approximately 50 days old, were treated daily with KF through simulated rain at 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg L −1 , for 19 consecutive days. Necrosis and chlorosis in S. saponaria were evidenced at the 4th day of KF application, for all treatments, followed by alterations of parenchyma tissues, cell collapse, accumulation of phenolic compounds and damage to the photochemical and biochemical stages of photosynthesis with increasing KF doses. Visible symptoms associated with non-invasive variables, such as F v /F m , ΔF/F m ′, ETR, A and A/Ci, were shown to be important biomarkers of fluoride action. In addition, the evaluated characteristics indicate that S. saponaria is highly sensitive to KF, with high bioindicator potential regarding this pollutant.

Visando avaliar os efeitos do fluoreto sobre capim-braquiária, plantas de Brachiaria brizantha e B. decumbens foram submetidas a nevoeiros simulados com fluoreto (10 µg ml-1). Amostras foliares de porções aparentemente sadias foram coletadas 24 horas após a última exposição para análises microscópicas. Folhas, raízes e rizomas foram submetidos à quantificação do teor de fluoreto. As folhas apresentaram necroses pequenas e esparsas. Somente as folhas acumularam fluoreto, apresentando teores 4,4 e 5,2 vezes maiores que no tratamento controle, em B. brizantha e B. decumbens, respectivamente, não havendo diferença no potencial acumulador das duas espécies. As principais alterações micromorfológicas observadas foram lesões próximas aos tricomas, sugerindo que estes sejam as vias preferenciais de entrada do poluente nas plantas. Porções foliares, visualmente sadias, de ambas as espécies apresentaram danos microscópicos antes do surgimento de sintomas, havendo perda da turgidez das células...

The study was conducted in Karasu Stream (Sinop Province, Black Sea Region of Turkey). The purpose of this study is, to determine the benthic macroinvertebrate composition of the stream, together with some of its environmental characteristics (water temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen) to evaluate the trophic level of the stream. Samplings of benthic macroinvertebrates and environmental variables were performed monthly at ten stations between February 2013 and January 2014. As a result, 18260 specimens were investigated and 175 taxa were determined. Chironomidae and Oligochaeta were the higher groups in terms of species richness with 48 and 38 taxa, respectively. The BMWP and ASPT indices indicate that all the stations belong to “slightly polluted (Class II)” or “unpolluted (Class I)” water quality levels.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the glyphosate herbicide effect on Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. ex Hayne seedlings. A randomized block design with 5 replicates was used with an experimental unit composed of one H. stigonocarpa plant in 5L pots. The treatments were: 0 (control); 9.6; 240; 480; 960 g a. ha− 1 of glyphosate. Evaluations were performed 24 hours and 60 days after application. Gas exchange, respiration, photosynthesis, visual, anatomical and histochemical evaluations were carried out with leaves from the middle third being collected, and the growth in relation to the two dates was measured and recorded. The growth analysis showed that the seedlings showed an increase in stem diameter, a decrease in leaf number and an increase in height. There were increases in photosynthetic, electron transport and transpiratory rates, and in the effective yield of photosystem II one day after the glyphosate application. The plants then showed a reduction in transpiratory rate a...

Anthropogenic plastic litter is widespread in all environments, with particular emphasis on aquatic habitats. Specifically, although freshwater mammals are important as they are at the top of food web, research mainly focus on marine animals, while only few studies have been carried out on freshwater mammals. The main gap is that microplastics (MP) are completely understudied in freshwater mammals. Here, we reported the first evidence of the presence of anthropogenic particles (including MP) in coypu (Myocastor coypus)’ faeces. Coypu is a rodent mammal inhabiting rivers and wetland areas, and we discussed our preliminary data suggesting the use of these tracks as possible future bioindicator of MP pollution in wetlands and freshwaters. We collected 30 coypu’s faeces in “Torre Flavia wetland” nature reserve. Then, in laboratory, faeces were digested in 30 ml hydrogen peroxide (30%) for a week a 20 °C and analysed under stereoscope. All the suspected found MP were isolated in a petri ...

Visando avaliar os efeitos do fluoreto sobre capim-braquiária, plantas de Brachiaria brizantha e B. decumbens foram submetidas a nevoeiros simulados com fluoreto (10 µg ml-1). Amostras foliares de porções aparentemente sadias foram coletadas 24 horas após a última exposição para análises microscópicas. Folhas, raízes e rizomas foram submetidos à quantificação do teor de fluoreto. As folhas apresentaram necroses pequenas e esparsas. Somente as folhas acumularam fluoreto, apresentando teores 4,4 e 5,2 vezes maiores que no tratamento controle, em B. brizantha e B. decumbens, respectivamente, não havendo diferença no potencial acumulador das duas espécies. As principais alterações micromorfológicas observadas foram lesões próximas aos tricomas, sugerindo que estes sejam as vias preferenciais de entrada do poluente nas plantas. Porções foliares, visualmente sadias, de ambas as espécies apresentaram danos microscópicos antes do surgimento de sintomas, havendo perda da turgidez das células...

Fungal spores are biological molecules that are widespread in the indoor and outdoor air. Several types of the very common fungal spores are known as allergens, with the potential to cause respiratory illnesses by increasing the aggravation of asthma and rhinitis. From January to December 2018, a crosssectional environmental survey was performed to determine the dust fungal spore concentration in four district of Al-Najaf governorates and examine the potential correlation between the concentration of fungal spores and the numbers of patients have asthma, also the effect of some demographical characteristic on the percentage of asthma. Fungal spores in dust were collected using Achudume method, the samples were cultured at room temperature for 7-10 days, the identification and counting of fungi were performed. The data of patients have asthma was obtained from statistics division at hospitals and health centers located in these districts. The result of this study revealed the highest fungal spore concentration was in the dust of Kufa district (29%), moreover, the most prevalent fungal isolate from the dust belonged to the genus Aspergillus, Alternaria, Cladosporium, and Penicillium. There was a remarkable difference among the four districts regarding the type and concentration of fungal spores. There was a significant positive correlation between the number of patients have asthma and the concentration of fungal spores in dust (r p = 0.96, p-value = 0.0001). The overall percentage of asthma in the study population was 4.1%, the rate of asthma appear to be more prevalent among male than female (2.47% vs 1,67%), there was no difference between the percentage of asthma in urban and rural areas (2.2%, 1.9%), and it was statistically non-significant at ≤ 0.05. There was a medium direct correlation between age groups and asthma (r p = 0.687) towered the increase in age, but it was not statistically significant (P= 0.132). It was clear that most of the recorded fungal spore type have allergenic properties, which mean that increase their concentration in the environment of AL-Najaf can negatively effect on the status of patients have asthma.

The purpose of this report is to provide the details of the institution of attachment, a description of all the activities undertaken during the attachment period, the lessons learnt and challenges faced during the same.
Water is precious natural resource for sustaining life and environment. Effective and sustainable management of water resources is vital for ensuring sustainable development. In view of the vital importance of water for human and animal life, for maintaining ecological balance and for economic and developmental activities of all kinds, and considering its increasing scarcity, the planning and management of water resource and its optimal, economical and equitable use has become a matter of the utmost urgency. Management of water resources in Kenya is of paramount importance to sustain fifty-five million plus population. Water management is a composite area with linkage to various sectors of Kenyan economy including the agricultural, industrial, domestic and household, power, environment, fisheries and transportation sector. The water resources management practices should be based on increasing the water supply and managing the water demand under the stressed water availability conditions. For maintaining the quality of freshwater, water quality management strategies are required to be evolved and implemented. Decision support systems are required to be developed for planning and management of the water resources project. There is interplay of various factors that govern access and utilization of water resources and in light of the increasing demand of water it becomes important to look for holistic and people-centered approaches for water management. Clearly, drinking water is too fundamental and serious an issue to be left to one institution alone. It needs the combined initiative and action of all, if at all Kenyans are serious in socioeconomic development. Safe drinking water can be assured, provided we set our focus to address it.

In present study three stations are located on Diyala River has been investigated to study phytoplankton community, the first station was located in Jalawlaa area, second station in Himreen impoundment, while the third station is located after the Himreen Dam in Al-Soddur area, A total 134 taxa of Phytoplankton were identified during the study period, 63, 82 and 84 were identified in stations 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The higher density of Phytoplankton observed in station 3, result ranged between 21.16-23.88 × 10 2 cell/l during September and October respectively, then station 2 which has density ranged between 18.44-66.188 × 10 2 cell/l during January and September respectively, while the station 1 has the lowest values during the study comparable to other stations, the result ranged between 5.495-70.62 × 10 2 cell/l during January and April respectively. Species Richness Index ranged from 2.9-7.46 in station 1, 4.08-7.85 in station 2 and 5.71-8.77 in station 3. The result revels that the station 3 show to increase in Richness index value in the most of the months comparable to other stations. The Similarity index also has been calculated among the common species of Phytoplankton through the three station by using the Hierarchical cluster analysis is the highest Similarity percentage in reach in 43.5% for the common species of Phytoplankton between stations 2 and 3.

Ciletuh is a coastal area located in Sukabumi Regency, West Java, which is currently included in the Geopark region in West Java. Ciletuh is a name of a bay that faces directly to the Indian Ocean, hence the similarity of its ocean characteristic. At present Ciletuh Bay has undergone massive sedimentation due to the large amount of sediment entering the surrounding bay coming from Ciwaru and Cimarinjung River and the existence of many floating net cages around the Ciletuh Bay, all of which empties into Ciletuh Bay. High sedimentation rate will disrupt environmental conditions especially organism found in sediments such as benthos. This research was designed using descriptive analytic methods in the form of field observations to determine the research station, sediment sampling and supporting parameters carried out at the research station point. The study was conducted at 5 sampling stations based on different characteristics. The purpose of this research is to see the relationship b...

Relationship between nutrient concentration and macrozoobenthos can indicate the level of fertility or pollution in the sea waters. The purpose of this research is to obtain nutrient concentrations in pore water, macrozoobenthos community structures, and the relationship between nutrient concentration and macrozoobenthos in pore water Ciletuh Bay. The research are using survey, purposive sampling and descriptive analysis method. The parameters observed in this research are nutrients including ammonia, phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, total N, and Total Organic Carbon (TOC). Analysis of population macrozoobenthos was determined by knowing abundance index and dominance index. From the results of the study, it has been found that two types of macrozoobenthos is Donax sp. and Nassarius sp which lived immersed, and its dominance influenced by sand sediment fraction. The higher concentration ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, N-total, and TOC which is 0.028, 0.708, 1.663, 0.075, 3.066 and 1.4 mgL-1. The factor that most influences the presence of macrozoobenthos is the type of sediment and the closest concentration of nutrient is phosphate.

The ecosystems of peatland canal and wet dune slacks have specific characteristics for phytoplankton community. This study aimed to elaborate on the distribution and abundance of phytoplankton community in peatland canal of Sungai Tohor Village, Meranti Islands, Riau and wet dune slacks of Parangtritis, Special Region of Yogyakarta. Phytoplankton was collected using a 2-L modified Van Dorn water sampler. In peatland, canal phytoplankton was sampled at 3 different locations, each with 5 repetitions. Meanwhile, in wet dune slacks, phytoplankton was sampled at 5 locations, each with 3 repetitions. Phytoplankton samples were filtered with Wisconsin plankton-net 120 mesh and fixed with 3 drops of formaldehyde 4%. The measured physical and chemical factors were air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, carbon dioxide, pH, depth, transparency, nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate concentration. The results showed that the distribution and abundance of phytoplankton community in wet dune slacks were greater than those of the peatland community. This research found 18 species of phytoplankton in peatland canal, dominated by Synedra acus and 116 species of phytoplankton in wet dune slacks, dominated by Cyclotella meneghiniana.

Satu kajian tentang alga telah diadakan dalam satu ekspedisi saintifik yang dijalankan di kawasan Gunung Stong, Jeli, Kelantan pada 23-29 Mei 2003. Sepanjang tempoh kajian, sebanyak 25 spesies alga telah direkodkan daripada pelbagai tempat pada trek yang berlainan. Keputusan menunjukkan kumpulan alga yang paling banyak terdiri daripada kelas Bacillariophyceae (16 spesies) diikuti oleh Chlorophyceae (4 spesies), Cyanophyceae (3 spesies) dan Rhodophyceae (1 spesies). Keputusan kajian ini akan memberi satu gambaran tentang keunikan ekologi kawasan kajian, kerana kajian terperinci belum pernah dijalankan di sini lagi. Hasil kajian juga mungkin berharga dalam mengemukakan cadangan kawasan ini sebagai satu kawasan simpan.

The effectiveness of tree species as bioindicators/biomonitors depends on appropriate selection based on their tolerance and sensitivity to air pollution, which is usually evaluated by the air pollution tolerance index (APTI). Despite the importance of the APTI in screening tree species for biomonitoring, there are still limitations to its usefulness in green belt establishment/management. Therefore, this study combined the APTI and anticipated performance index (API) to evaluate the potential of some tree species commonly growing on the campus of the University of Ilorin, north-central Nigeria, for green belt development. The study revealed that the APTI alone is not adequate for determining the suitability of tree species for green belt development, although it can be employed to identify sensitive plants for biomonitoring. The combination of the APTI and API in this study is a practical approach to developing a sink for air pollution control. The API indicated that Vitellaria paradoxa (API = 4) is a good performer in green belt development, while Terminalia catappa, Acacia nilotica and Prosopis africana (API = 3) are moderate performers. The present study suggests that integration of both the plant tolerance and performance indices for selection of tree species is very useful for the development of a green belt.

Relationship between nutrient concentration and macrozoobenthos can indicate the level of fertility or pollution in the sea waters. The purpose of this research is to obtain nutrient concentrations in pore water, macrozoobenthos community structures, and the relationship between nutrient concentration and macrozoobenthos in pore water Ciletuh Bay. The research are using survey, purposive sampling and descriptive analysis method. The parameters observed in this research are nutrients including ammonia, phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, total N, and Total Organic Carbon (TOC). Analysis of population macrozoobenthos was determined by knowing abundance index and dominance index. From the results of the study, it has been found that two types of macrozoobenthos is Donax sp. and Nassarius sp which lived immersed, and its dominance influenced by sand sediment fraction. The higher concentration ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, N-total, and TOC which is 0.028, 0.708, 1.663, 0.075, 3.066 and 1.4 mgL-1. The factor that most influences the presence of macrozoobenthos is the type of sediment and the closest concentration of nutrient is phosphate.

This study was conducted to evaluate the physicochemical and biological (epiphytic algae) properties of Diyala river. Eighteen environmental parameters were selected in addition to the qualitative study of epiphytic algae (total number of algae and chlorophyll a). Two macrophytes (Phragmites australis and Certatophyllum demersum) were selected for the benthic study. The results showed that the river was alkaline, very hard, brackish water and good aerated. The trophic level is ranged from oligotrophic to mesotrophic according to the results of total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and chlorophyll a. The study revealed that the upper part of the river differed in its properties from the middle and the lower part in the environmental characteristics and the Algal benthic quantities.

This study was aimed to investigate the trophic status of the marshes by phytoplankton diversity. The Phytoplankton community and four biodiversity indices were studied in Auda marsh southern Iraq in the period between January 2018 to January 2019. A total of 146 species were identified belonging to 8 classes as follows: Bacillariophyceae (85 taxa), Euglenophyceae (26 taxa), Cyanophyceae (16 taxa), Chlorophyceae (11 taxa), Mediophyceae (3 taxa), Coscinodiscophyceae (2 taxa), Conjugatophyceae (1 taxa), Trebouxiophyceae (1 taxa), and  Dinophyceae (1 taxa). The most predominant diatom was Nitzschia (15 species), and followed by the other genera Phacus (11 species), Navicula  and Euglena (10 species). The Shannon-Weiner diversity, Richness index  and Evenness index  were recorded a low value in wet 2019 and a high values in wet  (for Shannon Weiner and Evenness indices)  and dry  ( for Weiner and Evenness indices) 2018.  The Jaccard index showed equal similarity between study sites, whi...

Macroinvertebrates are without spinal cord living organisms that spend their main phases of metamorphosis in water; so, changing the ecological structure of their communities represents environmental health condition. The main purpose of this study was to identify the macroinvertebrate families as a biological indicator and, consequently, determining the water ecological quality in the Ghezel Ozan River, NW Iran. The sampling was conducted at 18 stations in autumn 2017. At the same time, dissolved oxygen, temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity, fecal and total coliform, BOD 5, COD, phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, chloride, and sulfate were measured based on APHA in each station. Then, based on the collected data, the NSFWQI, IRWQIsc, EQR, and BMWP/ASPT indices were calculated. In total, 1778 individual belong to 12 orders and 22 families were identified, which the most abundant order was Ephemeroptera by 47.8%. Except for the pH, COD, DO, and nitrogen compounds, other studied parameters were exceeded from their acceptable level. It seems that the geological characteristics are very effective in changing the parameters especially salinity. The best water quality was at Kharmaneh-Sar station (7), which runs from the protected area at high altitudes without human pressure. Also, the trend of water quality decreases from the upstream to downstream, which is completely in line with human activities. Therefore, the results of this study can well illustrate the role of land use and geology changes on the macroinvertebrate communities, which can be used to evaluate the ecological integrity of the river. Regular monitoring of river water quality and controlling and managing the quantity and quality of fish farms along the river can help in the ecological health of the river.

 The present research was performed to study the qualitative and quantitative composition of epiphytic algae on the aquatic host plant Ceratophyllum demersum L. Four sites in Tigris River, at Wassit Governorate were covered, during the seasons of Autumn 2017, winter 2018, Spring 2018, and Summer 2018. The study also included measuring the physiochemical parameters (temperature of air and water, pH , water level, EC, salinity, TDS, TSS, dissolved oxygen,  BOD5, alkalinity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, total nitrogen, total phosphourus). The total number of species of epiphytic algae was145 species, 98 species belonging to Bacillariophyceae, followed by 27species of class Cyanophyceae, 19 species of class Chlorophyceae, 4 species of class Euglenophyceae, and only 1 species for each of Chrycophyceae and Rhodophceae.  The total number of epiphytic algae ranged from 1681× cell/gm in Winter to 2014.95× cell/gm in Spring. The range of biodiversity indices was (1-8.2) for Richness in...