Ecological assessment of water quality and ichthyofauna condition of the Pechenihy reservoir
Abstract
Purpose. To assess the quality of surface waters of the Pechenihy Reservoir based on hydrochemical and microbiological indicators, as well as to determine the possible impact of the aquatic environment condition on the ichthyofauna of the reservoir.
Methods. Field, analytical for determining indicators of microbiological and chemical pollution of surface waters..
Results. Surface water samples were collected in autumn 2025 and spring 2026 at four monitoring sites within the Pechenihy Reservoir. The collected samples were analyzed for heavy metal concentrations (Mn, Fe, Cu, Cr, Pb, Cd) and total microbial count (TMC) using certified laboratory methods in accordance with current regulatory and methodological standards. The conducted studies revealed seasonal changes in the hydrochemical and microbiological condition of the Pechenihy Reservoir. In spring 2026, compared with autumn 2025, an increase in concentrations of most investigated heavy metals and higher total microbial count values were recorded. The highest exceedances of maximum allowable concentrations were detected for manganese and total iron. Local exceedances of standards for copper and cadmium were also observed in the area of Pechenihy settlement. The spatial distribution of pollutants indicated their accumulation in the lower part of the reservoir. A significant increase in total microbial count values in spring reflected elevated organic loading and intensified microbiological processes within the aquatic ecosystem. It was established that deterioration of water quality may create unfavorable conditions for fish habitation, contribute to the development of bacterial, parasitic, and fungal diseases, and negatively affect the physiological condition of ichthyofauna.
Conclusions. The ecological condition of the Pechenihy Reservoir is characterized by a moderate level of pollution with signs of increased anthropogenic pressure during the spring period. The greatest environmental threat is associated with elevated concentrations of manganese and iron, as well as increased total microbial count values. The obtained results indicate the necessity for systematic water quality monitoring and implementation of environmental protection measures aimed at reducing pollutant inputs into the reservoir.
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