Influencia de la variabilidad climática en la calidad del agua de la subcuenca del río Machinaza

Abstract

Abstract: This research focuses on the Machinaza River sub-basin, a tributary of the Zamora River in southeastern Ecuador. Its objective is to evaluate the influence of precipitation on water quality, considering its spatial and temporal variability. It also analyzes the morphometric characteristics of the sub-basin using hydrographic parameters. Compliance with the water quality criteria established in national regulations for the Blanco, Machinaza, and Zarza rivers was analyzed, comparing variations in parameters of interest such as aluminum, copper, iron, manganese, mercury, fecal coliforms, and pH, which are considered indicators of water quality. These parameters were evaluated in relation to the flow and precipitation recorded during the monitoring days, which revealed significant variations in concentrations, which increase in September when the flow decreases Likewise, a predictive analysis of precipitation and temperature variation for the year 2050 was carried out, which forecasts a decrease in precipitation. This scenario could cause an increase in heavy metal concentrations, compromising the quality of water resources in the sub-basin.