The Limnology Department of the Bureau of Fishery and Agriculture has provided data on the physicochemical parameters of the Pantal River, measured at five different stations. The water temperature is 29°C, which is ideal for aquatic life, as temperatures below 30°C are considered optimal. If the temperature rises to 37°C, it could negatively impact fish growth and metabolism, disrupting the ecosystem.
The pH level of the river is 7.9, indicating an alkaline nature. This pH level is within the optimal range of 6.5 to 8.5 recommended by the WHO, supporting aquatic life. Extreme pH levels can be harmful to fish and larvae, affecting aquatic ecosystems.
The river’s salinity is 12.31 ppt, classifying it as brackish water, which is suitable for certain marine species’ spawning. This characteristic supports fish farming and contributes to the human food supply and bird habitats.
The river’s turbidity is 26 NTU, which is higher than the ideal level of 10 NTU. While it still supports aquatic life, the increased turbidity can slow growth and metabolism, potentially affecting food supply and reducing consumer acceptance.
Chemical levels, including phosphate, nitrite, and ammonia, are within permissible limits, making the water suitable for breeding. However, high phosphate levels can lead to eutrophication, and increased concentrations of phosphate and nitrate can be toxic to fish. Elevated ammonia levels can also be harmful, leading to toxic buildup in aquatic organisms.
The total suspended and dissolved solids are minimal, but the water’s hardness, due to magnesium and calcium ions, exceeds standard values. This can affect fish metabolism and osmoregulation.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels are below WHO standards, which may reduce consumer acceptance. The DO level is 4.5 mg/l, and the BOD is 3.85 mg/l.
An analysis using One-Way ANOVA shows no significant differences in the physicochemical characteristics of the water across the five stations, indicating consistent water quality along the Pantal River.
