Propuesta para el monitoreo de la calidad ecológica de las ACMUS del cantón Loja, como herramienta para la gestión integrada de los recursos hídricos

Abstract

Abstract: This paper develops a proposal for monitoring the ecological quality of the ACMUS (Aquaculture and Biodiversity Areas) in the canton of Loja, Ecuador, as a tool for integrated water resources management. Through a systematic literature review, the main ecological quality indicators for local monitoring were established, such as physicochemical, biological, and biodiversity indicators based on soil, flora, fauna, and water. The ABI, EPT, and QBR indices, the IHF, and IVI indices were highlighted as best suited to local conditions for monitoring. Furthermore, the ideal frequency for conducting this in situ monitoring was considered. The monitoring integrates physicochemical parameters of water and soil quality, identification of macroinvertebrate trophic guilds, and the assessment of riparian vegetation. This provides valuable information for conservation and the early identification of environmental threats, generating the necessary inputs to comprehensively monitor these areas. Finally, the feasibility of monitoring was assessed based on its financial, logistical, and technical capacity, identifying areas for improvement in terms of financial and technical capacity to ensure continuous monitoring.