Assessing ecological impairments in Neotropical rivers of Mexico: calibration and validation of the Biomonitoring Working Party Index

摘要: Freshwater ecosystems are one of the most endangered and threatened worldwide, particularly in developing countries, where population growth, industrialization, urbanization, changes land use increasing. In Mexico, water severely impacted an easy-to-use tool is needed for monitoring freshwater ecosystems. This study presents development a calibration validation procedure Biological Monitoring Working Party Index using physical–chemical biological data from Neotropical rivers Mexico (Apatlaco Chalma-Tembembe). Water quality macroinvertebrates were monitored four campaigns including dry rainy seasons (2012–2013). Calibration index was performed following steps: determination physicochemical index, identification abundance class each family macroinvertebrates, incorporation abundances corresponding interval, bioindication values macroinvertebrate family. With calibrated values, assessed site period. The validated by statistical test. Ranges categories defined three procedures. range tested with sites adjacent sub-basins. Chalma-Tembembe River agricultural areas comprised “Bad polluted” to “regular moderately polluted,” whereas largest portion Apatlaco urban zones “Bad, very extremely polluted.” Thus, suitable biomonitoring tool, allowing detection that need urgent management recovery plan.