Gestión integrada de recursos hídricos. Caso de estudio sobre la influencia de las características físicas de quebradas altoandinas en los anfibios, Azuay Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: Water recharge ecosystems host endemic species with ecological value, many of which serve as indicators of water quality. However, anthropogenic activities alter the physicochemical properties of water and impact the biodiversity associated with high Andean streams. This study evaluated whether certain physical variables influence the presence of amphibians in three streams located in Chordeleg, Sigsig, and Gualaceo. pH, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, and flow rate were measured; amphibian presence was assessed using linear transect surveys. No significant correlations were found between physical variables and amphibian records. However, a potential relationship was observed between flow rate and the reproductive activity of Atelopus bomolochos, as a reproductive event was documented in a stream with moderate to low flow, while no individuals were found in another stream with higher flow. It is suggested that species of the genus Atelopus exhibit ecological tolerance ranges, provided that environmental conditions do not exceed their physiological thresholds. Since these tolerance ranges have yet to be defined, they represent a relevant direction for future research. It is recommended that Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) plans include biodiversity as a key component in the planning and monitoring of water quality.