Evaluation of the Effects of Tigris River Water Quality on the Rotifers Community in Northern Baghdad by using the Canadian Water Quality Index (CCME-WQI)

Abstract

     The water quality index was used for the evaluation of the quality of water, as well its impacts on the rotifer abundance, in the Tigris River as it passes through Mishahda City, northern Baghdad. Five sites were selected and samples were collected during October 2019 to September 2020. It was noticed that the index values in most sites have exceeded the upper limits of river waters. The values ranged from 40 (Poor) to 45 (Marginal) in all sites. While, the values were from 42 (Poor) to 65 (Fair) during different seasons. As for drinking usages, the results demonstrated poor or undrinkable (31-40) water in all sites. Meanwhile, the values ranged from 39 (Poor) to 56 (Clear) in regard to seasons. The index values recorded for the purpose of Conservation of Aquatic Organisms ranged from 36 (Poor) to 66 (Fair) in the all sites, and 56 (Clear) to 69 (Fair) during different seasons. Twenty five rotifer species were recorded, including 11, 2, 1, 5, 2, 1, 2, and 1 species of Brachionidae, Euchlanidae, Gastropodidae, Lecanidae, Lapadellidae, Notomanatidae, Synchoetidae, and Trichotoidae, respectively. It is concluded that the water of the Tigris on Mishahda City is considered to be highly contaminated and not suitable for human consumption without the necessary treatment. It was also noticed that the population density of the rotifers community was affected by the river water quality. However, despite the presence of environmental pressures, the rotifers continued to reproduce and conserve.