Biomonitoring of freshwater ecosystems: research and citizen participation in the Upper Valley of Río Negro and Neuquén (Patagonia, Argentina)

Abstract

Increases in population, along with related economic activities, have increased pressure on freshwater ecosystems in the Upper Valley region (Río Negro and Neuquén, Patagonia) in Argentina. Pesticides, fertilizers, hydrocarbons, plastics, and other pollutants drain into freshwater streams, rivers, wetlands, and ultimately the ocean, causing changes in the water quality, the biota, and ultimately affecting all ecological processes. To make sound decisions for the management of Argentinian fresh water, including planning and active regulation, it is essential to study and understand the relative risks of anthropogenic activities on the aquatic ecosystems. It is necessary to identify the sources and causes of the degradation of natural water habitats, assess their current state and analyze long-term trends in the health of the ecosystem so that Argentinian water bodies are sustainable and continue to provide fresh drinking water for local populations and irrigation water to sustain intensive agricultural production.