Uso de COPEPODOS como bioindicadores de contaminación en el muelle de Manta, 2024.

Abstract

This study analyzes the potential of copepods as bioindicators to assess oil and grease pollution in the coastal waters near the Port Terminal of Manta, Ecuador. The research included the collection of water samples at three strategic points, where chemical and biological parameters were evaluated using specific methodologies, such as Soxhlet extraction to determine oil and grease concentrations, and microscopic techniques for the counting and identification of copepods. The results show that oil and grease concentrations exceed the limits established by Ministerial Agreement 097A, confirming significant contamination in the study area. Additionally, the presence and distribution of copepods were observed to fluctuate based on environmental conditions and pollution levels, reflecting their sensitivity to changes in water quality.