Ingenio (Jan 2025)

Analysis of the Biodegradability Index of Organic Matter in the Water of the Machangara River in Quito City

  • Suly Margoth Rodríguez Ayala,
  • Montserrat Rodríguez Ayala,
  • Silvia Elizabeth García González,
  • Darwin Rodolfo Caina Aysabucha

DOI
https://doi.org/10.29166/ingenio.v8i1.7376
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8, no. 1

Abstract

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The evaluation of the water quality in rivers is essential to identify the impact of human activities and establish mitigation strategies. The aim of this project is to analyze the biodegradability index of organic matter in the water of the Machangara river in Quito city of Ecuador. It flows through some places of Quito such as “Las Cuadras”, “El Recreo”, “La Recoleta”, and “Nayon”. Through sampling in the aforementioned sectors, the parameters necessary for the calculation of biochemical (BOD), and chemical (COD) oxygen demand were analyzed, along with other physicochemical parameters such as turbidity and watercolor. In addition, a survey was conducted in the study areas in March 2023. The results showed a significant variability in the level of contamination among the sectors analyzed. A higher level of contamination was found in the areas of La Recoleta and El Recreo compared to Las Cuadras, and Nayon, which is attributed to direct discharges of pollutants from illegal pipes connected to both industries and households. The biodegradability index obtained suggests the need to implement chemical, and biological treatments for the efficient removal of organic and inorganic pollutants present in the river. The physicochemical analysis showed that the turbidity, and color of the water also correlated with the high levels of pollution observed, especially in the most affected sectors. The information gathered through interviews showed that the local population suffers directly from the negative effects of this contamination, manifesting symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, lack of concentration, and depression, especially in children, and older adults. In conclusion, the results of this study highlight the need for immediate corrective measures, such as chemical, and biological treatments, to mitigate the environmental, and health impacts of the Machangara River and improve the quality of life of the affected population.

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