Biodiversity and Water Quality Using Aquatic Macroinvertebrates in the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge (Phase 3)

This project focuses on the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge, a crucial remnant of Andean native forest in Pichincha, where prior research on fauna, especially aquatic insects, is limited. The main objective is to assess biodiversity and water quality through the analysis of aquatic macroinvertebrates. In a preliminary stage, 6149 invertebrates were captured and identified to the family level, revealing water quality ranging from very good to regular in areas with human influence (PMM-01). The second stage focuses on detailed taxonomic identification down to the genus level, necessitating the acquisition of stereomicroscopes. The methodology involves sampling with a Surber net at pristine (caldera) and impacted sites, followed by physicochemical analyses. Abundance and diversity data will be analyzed using specialized software like EstimateS and PAST, seeking correlations with physicochemical parameters to inform the RVSP management plan and support necessary decontamination for piscicultural and human uses.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To establish the biodiversity and evaluate the water quality in the aquatic bodies within the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge, comparing pristine zones with areas under anthropic influence.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Biodiversity and biological interrelationships