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Aragaw FM, Merid MW, Tebeje TM, Erkihun MG, Tesfaye AH. Unimproved source of drinking water and its associated factors: a spatial and multilevel analysis of Ethiopian demographic and health survey. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1455. [PMID: 37525187 PMCID: PMC10388450 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16354-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drinking water quality has been a major public health concern in lower and middle income countries where access to improved water supplies is limited. Ethiopia is thought to have one of the worst drinking water infrastructures in the world. This study aimed to assess the spatial variation and determinants of using unimproved sources of drinking water in Ethiopia using recent nationally representative data. METHODS A population-based cross-sectional study was employed with the recent EDHS data of 2019. A total of 8663 households were sampled using a stratified two-stage cluster sampling method. Kuldorff's SaTScan version 9.6 software was used to generate spatial scan statistics. ArcGIS version 10.7 software was used to visualize the spatial patterns of unimproved drinking water sources. A multilevel multivariable mixed-effect logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the use of an unimproved drinking water source. In the multivariable multilevel analysis, those variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered to be significant predictors of using an unimproved source of drinking water. RESULT Around 31% (95% CI: 30%, 32%) of the population in Ethiopia uses unimproved sources of drinking water with significant spatial variation across the country. Households aged 41-60 [AOR = 0.69; 95%CI; 0.53, 0.89] as compared to the households aged 10-25, households having middle wealth index [AOR = 0.48; 95%CI; 0.40, 0.59], and households having a rich wealth index [AOR = 0.31; 95%CI; 0.25, 0.39] as compared to the poor households, living in high community literacy level [AOR = 0.36; 95%CI; 0.16, 0.80], living in high-level community poverty [AOR = 3.03; 95%CI; 1.32, 6.98], rural residence [AOR = 7.88; 95%CI; 2.74, 22.67] were significant predictors of use of unimproved source of drinking water. Hot spot areas of use of unimproved drinking water sources were observed in Amhara, Afar, and Somalia regions and some parts of SNNPR and Oromia regions in Ethiopia. The primary clusters were found in Ethiopia's Somalia and Oromia regions. CONCLUSION Around one third of the Ethiopian population utilizes unimproved source of drinking water and it was distributed non-randomly across regions of Ethiopia. The age of the household head, wealth status of the household, residence, community poverty level, and community literacy level were found to be significantly associated with utilizing unimproved drinking water source. State authorities, non-governmental organizations and local health administrators should work to improve the quality of drinking water particularly for high risk groups such as communities living in high poverty and low literacy, poor households, rural residents, and hot spot areas to decrease the adverse consequences of using unimproved drinking water source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fantu Mamo Aragaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Mehari Woldemariam Merid
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tsion Mulat Tebeje
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of public health, College of Health Science and Medicine, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Muluken Gizachew Erkihun
- Department of Surgery, School of medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Amensisa Hailu Tesfaye
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Jemal T, Astatke H, Terfe A, Mekonen S. Effect of conventional and household water treatment technologies on the removal of pesticide residues in drinking water, Jimma town, Southwestern, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288086. [PMID: 37467297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Water resources have been contaminated by pesticides due to the different activities of human beings. Different studies documented that advanced water treatment systems can eliminate pesticides while conventional and household treatment technologies are not well studied. The main aim of the present study is to determine the effect of conventional and household water treatment technologies on the removal of pesticide residue in drinking water. Water samples were collected from the Gibe River (intake point), from each treatment process, and from the distribution system. To determine the effect of the household water treatment process (solar disinfection and boiling), pesticides were spiked into distilled water and then passed through solar disinfection (SODIS) and boiling. The extraction of samples was conducted by following a low-density-based dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction procedure. The result of the study revealed that almost all studied pesticides except o´p-DDT were detected in water samples. Most pesticides that were detected in water samples from our study areas exceeded the maximum residue limits (MRLs), except for p,p'-DDE. The percent reduction of pesticide residue after post-chlorination by conventional water treatment ranges from 11.7% (from 70.83 μg/L to 62.54 μg/L) for p´p-DDD to 97.29% (5510.1μg/L to 149.5μg/L) for Dimethachlor, and the percent reduction of pesticide residue by SODIS and boiling ranges from 2.31% (o´p-DDT) to 54.45% (Cypermethrin) and 27.13% (γ-Chlordane) to 38.9% (p´p-DDE) respectively. This indicates that treatment technologies are important for the reduction of pesticides in water. Since studied pesticides are persistent and the resides were exceed MRL (have a health impact), monitoring of pesticides in treatment plant units is necessary and treatment technology improvement is important to allow further removal of pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temima Jemal
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Higemengist Astatke
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Terfe
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Seblework Mekonen
- Ethiopian Institute of Water Resources, Water and Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Mereta ST, Abaya SW, Tulu FD, Takele K, Ahmednur M, Melka GA, Nanyingi M, Vineer HR, Graham-Brown J, Caminade C, Mor SM. Effects of Land-Use and Environmental Factors on Snail Distribution and Trematode Infection in Ethiopia. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8030154. [PMID: 36977155 PMCID: PMC10053549 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8030154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Freshwater snails are intermediate hosts for several snail-borne diseases affecting humans and animals. Understanding the distribution of snail intermediate hosts and their infection status is very important to plan and implement effective disease prevention and control interventions. In this study, we determined the abundance, distribution, and trematode infection status of freshwater snails in two agro-ecological zones of Ethiopia. We sampled snails from 13 observation sites and examined them for trematode infections using a natural cercarial shedding method. A redundancy analysis (RDA) was used to examine the relationship between snail abundance and environmental variables. Overall, a total of 615 snails belonging to three species were identified. Lymnea natalensis and Bulinus globosus were the dominant snail species, representing 41% and 40% of the total collection, respectively. About one-third of the total snail population (33%) shed cercariae. The cercariae species recorded were Xiphidiocercaria, Brevifurcate apharyngeate distome (BAD), Echinostome, and Fasciola. Snail species were found in high abundance in aquatic habitats located in the agricultural landscape. Therefore, land-use planning and protection of aquatic habitats from uncontrolled human activities and pollution can be considered as important strategies to prevent and control the spread of snail-borne diseases in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seid Tiku Mereta
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma P.O. Box 378, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +251-913-296-056
| | - Samson Wakuma Abaya
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa P.O. Box 9086, Ethiopia
| | - Fikirte Demissie Tulu
- School of Applied Natural Sciences, Adama Science and Technology University, Adama P.O. Box 1888, Ethiopia
| | - Kebede Takele
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma P.O. Box 378, Ethiopia
| | - Mahmud Ahmednur
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma P.O. Box 378, Ethiopia
| | - Girma Alemu Melka
- Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Jimma University, Jimma P.O. Box 378, Ethiopia
| | - Mark Nanyingi
- Department of Public and Global Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Hannah Rose Vineer
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - John Graham-Brown
- Liverpool Veterinary Parasitology Diagnostics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - Cyril Caminade
- The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Earth System Physics Department, Leonardo Building, 34151 Trieste, Italy
| | - Siobhan M. Mor
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
- International Livestock Research Institute, Addis Ababa P.O. Box 5689, Ethiopia
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Steinbach S, Hentschel E, Hentze K, Rienow A, Umulisa V, Zwart SJ, Nelson A. Automatization and evaluation of a remote sensing-based indicator for wetland health assessment in East Africa on national and local scales. ECOL INFORM 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2023.102032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
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Evaluation of Waste Stabilization Pond Efficiency and Its Effluent Water Quality: a Case Study of Kito Furdisa Campus, Jimma University, Southwest Ethiopia. ScientificWorldJournal 2022; 2022:2800034. [PMID: 35620273 PMCID: PMC9129971 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2800034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Waste stabilization pond (WSP) technology is one of the most promising wastewater treatment methods. In developing countries, including Ethiopia, only a small proportion of the wastewater is being treated. Discharge of untreated wastewater into receiving water bodies may lead to disruption of ecological integrity, economic, and public health risks. However, there is limited evidence on WSP efficiency and effluent water quality in Ethiopia. A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 wastewater samples. A standard method of procedure was used to collect and analyze samples. SPSS version-24 was used for statistical analysis and a paired t-test was used to test for statistical significant differences. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in the removal efficiency of BOD5 up to 75.3% (117 mg/L effluent) and COD up to 56.5% (457.5 mg/L effluent) was recorded. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in the removal efficiency of TN up to 79% (17.4 mg/L effluent), TP up to 69.2% (4.8 mg/L effluent), and PO4−3 up to 71% (3.36 mg/L effluent) was recorded. Whereas, a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in the removal efficiency of total coliforms up to 99.99% (3.4 × 103 MPN/100 mL effluent) and fecal coliforms up to 94.3% (8.54 × 102 MPN/100 mL effluent) was recorded. The overall efficiency of the treatment plant was 73.5% and its water quality index of the effluent water quality of WSP was 30. The finding showed that the efficiency of the WSP was judged as satisfactory and the effluent water quality of WSP is unsuitable for the discharge into the environment. Therefore, to improve the efficiency of the WSP and to produce adequately treated water, it required adequate preliminary treatment, modification of the design, desludging of the pond, additional treatment, and frequent monitoring and maintenance of the pond.
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An Evaluation of the Khubelu Wetland and Receiving Stream Water Quality for Community Use. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14030442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Wetlands in Lesotho are at the headwaters of some shared river basins like the Orange-Senqu River basin. These wetlands are threatened by various anthropogenic activities which are compromising their water quality. This study assessed the water quality status of the Khubelu wetland and stream using various water quality parameters to determine its suitability for domestic use, irrigation, and livestock watering. This was a preliminary research study on the suitability of the stream water for various uses in the study area. Calcium was the most concentrated cation in the stream (8.20 mg/L to 16.8 mg/L), followed by magnesium (7.29 mg/L to 12.51 mg/L), with sodium and potassium showing minimum values. The chemical oxygen demand values were in the range of 48 to 160 mg/L. All parameters were within the EU and WHO ranges for drinking water, except EC, DO, BOD, COD, and PO4 levels. The Khubelu wetland water quality index (WQI) had a value of 93, whereas the stream WQI value was 107. The sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) values for the wetland and stream were 3.83 and 1.04, respectively, whereas the Soluble Sodium Percentage (SSP) ranged from 18.19 to 39.25%. The stream water quality was acceptable for animal watering and crop irrigation, whereas wetland water would be acceptable for animal watering and would present some challenges for crop irrigation purposes due to the magnesium hazard it poses. The implications for the management of the wetland are discussed.
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Singh Y, Singh G, Khattar JS, Barinova S, Kaur J, Kumar S, Singh DP. Assessment of water quality condition and spatiotemporal patterns in selected wetlands of Punjab, India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:2493-2509. [PMID: 34370199 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15590-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Wetlands are one of the most productive aquatic ecosystems on earth, and their water quality is an indicative of their suitability for maintaining various ecosystem services. In this study, different statistical techniques and water quality index (WQI) were employed to access the status and spatiotemporal patterns in water quality of seven selected (two natural and five manmade) wetlands of Punjab. The results revealed that the status of water quality in the selected wetlands was between good and poor during studied seasons (summer, monsoon, and winter) of year 2019. The principal component analysis identified three groups of wetlands with distinct water quality characteristics with spatial patterns: Kahnuwan Chhamb and Keshopur Miani having nearly similar values of pH, total dissolve salts, electrical conductivity, chemical oxygen demand, total alkalinity, bicarbonate and ammonium content; Ropar, Kanjli, and Harike having higher value of nutrients than the other wetlands; and Ranjit Sagar and Nangal with low value of measured water quality characteristics. Further, analysis of variance revealed that all analyzed water quality parameters showed temporal patterns in water quality except water pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, and phosphate content. This comparative study enhanced our knowledge about the spatiotemporal patterns in water quality and in the future will be helpful to the policymakers and concerned authorities for developing better water quality management strategies for these wetlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadvinder Singh
- Department of Botany and Environmental Science, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, 140406, Punjab, India.
| | - Gurdarshan Singh
- Department of Botany and Environmental Science, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, 140406, Punjab, India
| | | | - Sophia Barinova
- Institute of Evolution, University of Haifa, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
| | - Jasneet Kaur
- Department of Zoology, Patel Memorial National College, Rajpura, 140401, Punjab, India
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Department of Economics, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, 140406, Punjab, India
| | - Davinder Pal Singh
- Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, 147002, Punjab, India
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Olkeba BK, Boets P, Mereta ST, Mandefro B, Debesa G, Ahmednur M, Ambelu A, Korma W, Goethals PLM. Malacological and Parasitological Surveys on Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes: Implications for Control and Elimination of Snail-Borne Diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010142. [PMID: 35010399 PMCID: PMC8750326 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the snail-borne diseases responsible for the second-highest burden of diseases among neglected tropical diseases. The use of mass drug administration to the populations most at risk is a backbone of the strategy to prevent and control schistosomiasis transmission. However, it offers no protection against re-infection, and humans are often re-exposed when they return to water bodies where snails release cercariae. Surveys on cercarial infection in snails could provide better insights on human disease risk. Hence, in this study, we investigated cercarial infection in snails and also determined the epidemiology of Schistosoma mansoni among fishermen at Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes. Freshwater snails were collected from the shorelines of Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes for examination of cercarial infection during 2020. Environmental data on water quality variables and physical characteristics of snail habitats were collected. Stool samples were collected from fishermen and the Kato-Katz technique was applied for the quantification of Schistosoma mansoni eggs. A malacological survey indicated that six morphologically distinguishable types of cercariae were found in snails. Infected snails with cercaria were more likely present in habitats with high five-day biological oxygen demand and low dissolved oxygen. The overall prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection among the fishermen at Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes was found to be 21.5%. This indicates that fishermen at Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes are one of the groups of people harboring schistosome cercariae which are potentially responsible for the transmission of schistosomiasis to lakeshore communities who have contact with lake water. Therefore, complementary medical treatment, public health interventions, environmental management and snail reduction are needed to control the transmission of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beekam Kebede Olkeba
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Building F, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (P.B.); (P.L.M.G.)
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa 1560, Ethiopia
| | - Pieter Boets
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Building F, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (P.B.); (P.L.M.G.)
- Provincial Centre of Environmental Research, Godshuizenlaan 95, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Seid Tiku Mereta
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Belayhun Mandefro
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla 419, Ethiopia;
| | - Gemechu Debesa
- Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia;
| | - Mahmud Ahmednur
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Argaw Ambelu
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Wolyu Korma
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Peter L. M. Goethals
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Building F, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (P.B.); (P.L.M.G.)
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Cristiano W, Giacoma C, Carere M, Mancini L. Chemical pollution as a driver of biodiversity loss and potential deterioration of ecosystem services in Eastern Africa: A critical review. S AFR J SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.17159/sajs.2021/9541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical pollution, i.e. the release of anthropogenic chemical substances into the environment, is a driver of biodiversity loss. Although this issue has been widely investigated in high-income countries of temperate regions, there is a lack of data for tropical areas of middle- or low-income countries, such as those in Eastern Africa. Some of the world’s richest biomes that are affected by multiple pressures, including chemical pollution, are hosted in this macro-region. However, few studies have addressed the impact of the release of anthropogenic chemical pollutants on the biodiversity, and the related potential implications for the deterioration of ecosystem goods and services in this area. A contribution in systemising the scientific literature related to this topic is, therefore, urgently needed. We reviewed studies published from 2001 to 2021, focusing on the chemical pollution impact on Eastern African wildlife. Despite an extensive literature search, we found only 43 papers according to our survey methods. We focused on wildlife inhabiting terrestrial ecosystems and inland waters. According to our search, Kenya and Uganda are the most represented countries accounting for about half of the total number of reviewed articles. Moreover, 67.4% of the studies focus on inland waters. The spread of anthropogenic chemicals into tropical areas, e.g. Eastern Africa, and their effects on living organisms deserve greater attention in research and politics. We report a weak increasing trend in publishing studies addressing this topic that might bode well. The combined effort of science and governments is crucial in improving the management of chemical pollutants in the environment for achieving the goals of biodiversity conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Cristiano
- Unit of Ecosystems and Health, Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Cristina Giacoma
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Mario Carere
- Unit of Ecosystems and Health, Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Mancini
- Unit of Ecosystems and Health, Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
The Mekong River is one of the world’s largest rivers, unparalleled in terms of its biodiversity and ecosystem services. As in other regions, sufficient water quality is required to support diverse organisms, habitats, and ecosystems, but in the Mekong region, water quality has not been well studied. Based on biological and physical-chemical data collected over the last two decades, we evaluated spatial-temporal water quality of the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) using biotic and abiotic assessment metrics. We found that during the 2000s, water quality in the LMB was unpolluted, with “very good” metrics for tributary rivers and “good” status for mainstem rivers. However, during the last decade, water quality has been degraded in the LMB, particularly near Vientiane City; the Sekong, Sesan, and Srepok (3S) Rivers; the Tonle Sap Lake system; and the Mekong Delta. Water quality degradation likely corresponds to flow alteration, erosion, sediment trapping, and point and non-point wastewater, which have occurred from rapid hydropower development, deforestation, intensive agriculture, plastic pollution, and urbanization. Regular biomonitoring, physical-chemical water quality assessment, transparent data sharing, and basin-wide water quality standards or management are needed to sustain water quality to support biodiversity and ecosystem function in the LMB.
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Gebremichael SG, Yismaw E, Tsegaw BD, Shibeshi AD. Determinants of water source use, quality of water, sanitation and hygiene perceptions among urban households in North-West Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0239502. [PMID: 33886565 PMCID: PMC8062053 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clean water is an essential part of human healthy life and wellbeing. More recently, rapid population growth, high illiteracy rate, lack of sustainable development, and climate change; faces a global challenge in developing countries. The discontinuity of drinking water supply forces households either to use unsafe water storage materials or to use water from unsafe sources. The present study aimed to identify the determinants of water source types, use, quality of water, and sanitation perception of physical parameters among urban households in North-West Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among households from February to March 2019. An interview-based a pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data collection samples were selected randomly and proportional to each of the kebeles' households. MS Excel and R Version 3.6.2 were used to enter and analyze the data; respectively. Descriptive statistics using frequencies and percentages were used to explain the sample data concerning the predictor variable. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the association between independent and response variables. RESULTS Four hundred eighteen (418) households have participated. Based on the study undertaken,78.95% of households used improved and 21.05% of households used unimproved drinking water sources. Households drinking water sources were significantly associated with the age of the participant (x2 = 20.392, df = 3), educational status (x2 = 19.358, df = 4), source of income (x2 = 21.777, df = 3), monthly income (x2 = 13.322, df = 3), availability of additional facilities (x2 = 98.144, df = 7), cleanness status (x2 = 42.979, df = 4), scarcity of water (x2 = 5.1388, df = 1) and family size (x2 = 9.934, df = 2). The logistic regression analysis also indicated that those factors are significantly determining the water source types used by the households. Factors such as availability of toilet facility, household member type, and sex of the head of the household were not significantly associated with drinking water sources. CONCLUSION The uses of drinking water from improved sources were determined by different demographic, socio-economic, sanitation, and hygiene-related factors. Therefore; the local, regional, and national governments and other supporting organizations shall improve the accessibility and adequacy of drinking water from improved sources in the area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emebet Yismaw
- Department of Statistics, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
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Astatkie H, Ambelu A, Beyene EM. Sources and level of heavy metal contamination in the water of Awetu watershed streams, southwestern Ethiopia. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06385. [PMID: 33855229 PMCID: PMC8027692 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the contamination source, level, and spatial distribution of globally alarming trace metals from Awetu watershed streams, southwestern Ethiopia. Surface water samples were collected from 20 sampling sites in December 2019. Water samples were collected in 500 ml polyethylene bottles previously washed with deionized water and rinsed with the sample to be collected from different stretches and acidified with 5 ml concentrated nitric acid. The samples were digested with open acid digestion and the contents of the metal were analysed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) ranged from 18 - 351 μg/L for As, 5–19 μg/L for Cd, 232–421 μg/L for Cr, 314–920 μg/L for Pb and 10–16 μg/L for Hg. The highest concentrations of As were detected at K3, Cd at K2, Pb and Cr at D4, and Hg at D5. Analysis of variance results revealed that the Cd concentrations were statistically significant among all the streams except for Boye. Streams found at the center of Jimma city with effluents emanated from Jimma University, garage maintenances, car-wash and agricultural areas had higher values than the streams in the periphery. This study concluded that a higher concentration of trace elements is associated with the type of waste entering the streams. Trace elements concentration in the watershed is to the level that can pose a risk to downstream users. Public awareness creation to establish waste management systems and river quality monitoring should be implemented to minimize the public health risk and deterioration of the aquatic ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Higemengist Astatkie
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Argaw Ambelu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Assessment of the Effect of Solid Waste Dump Site on Surrounding Soil and River Water Quality in Tepi Town, Southwest Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 2020:5157046. [PMID: 32587623 PMCID: PMC7298265 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5157046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An increase in urban population and the rising demand for food and other essentials perpetuate a rise in the amount of waste being generated daily by each household. In Ethiopia, this waste is eventually thrown into open dump sites. It can cause severe impact on soil and surface water quality. As a result, it becomes the probable source of human health risk through food chain. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the effect of a solid waste dump site on surrounding soil and river water quality in Tepi town, Southwest Ethiopia. Three surface water, one leachate, and four soil samples were collected and analyzed. Six heavy metals for surface water and leachate samples and four heavy metals for soil samples were measured by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. In addition, physiochemical parameters were analyzed using standard methods. The data were analyzed statistically using Origin pro version 8.0 computer software packages. The pH of soil was slightly basic ranging from 8 ± 0.1 to 8.7 ± 0.21. Electrical conductivity was lower at 60 meters (1800 ± 0.5 μs/cm) and higher in the other sample sites (3490 ± 0.66-4920 ± 1.04 μs/cm). The concentration of heavy metals in soil samples revealed cadmium (0.53 ± 0.01-2.26 ± 0.02 mg/kg), zinc (623.93 ± 0.29-859.41 ± 0.02 mg/kg), lead (3.26 ± 0.25-57.560.26 mg/kg), and copper (204.06 ± 0.06-337.11 ± 0.01 mg/kg). Lead, cadmium, manganese, nickel, copper, and zinc were found in the leachate water; nickel and manganese were found in the nearby river water; BOD5 and COD for both leachate and stream water samples were found to be higher than standard guideline values. The finding suggested that solid waste open dump site adversely affects soil and water quality in the study area and becomes a probable source of risk for human health via the food chain.
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Mereta ST, Bedewi J, Yewhalaw D, Mandefro B, Abdie Y, Tegegne D, Birke W, Mulat WL, Kloos H. Environmental determinants of distribution of freshwater snails and trematode infection in the Omo Gibe River Basin, southwest Ethiopia. Infect Dis Poverty 2019; 8:93. [PMID: 31744539 PMCID: PMC6865041 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-019-0604-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Determination of infection rates of snail populations is one of the basic tools for epidemiological studies of snail borne diseases. In this study, we opted to determine the trematode infection of freshwater snails in the Omo-Gibe River Basin, southwest Ethiopia. METHODS We collected snail samples from 130 observation sites in lakes, wetlands, rivers, reservoirs and irrigation canals surveyed during the dry season (March to May) in 2016. The snail samples were examined for trematode infections by cercarial shedding immediately after collection. Habitat conditions, water quality, human water contact practices and other human activities were assessed at each survey site. A redundancy analysis (RDA) was used to examine the relationship between cercarial infection and environmental variables. The statistical significance of eigenvalues and cercariae-environment correlations generated by the RDA were tested using Monte Carlo permutations at 499 permutations. RESULTS A total of 3107 snails belonging to five species were collected. The most abundant species was Biomphalaria pfeifferi, representing 66% of the total collection. Overall, 109 (3.6%) of the snails were found infected with trematodes (cercariae). Biomphalaria pfeifferi was found to be the most highly infected, accounting 85% of all infected snails. A total of eight morphologically different types of cercariae were recorded, which included: Echinostoma cercariae, brevifurcate apharyngeate distome cercariae, amphistome cercariae, brevifurcate apharyngeate monostome cercariae, xiphidiocercariae, longifurcate pharyngeate distome cercariae, strigea cercariae and unidentified cercariae. Brevifurcate apharyngeate distome cercariae, and Echinostoma cercariae were the most abundant cercariae, accounting for 36 and 34% of all infection, respectively. The mean concentration of water conductivity and 5 days biological oxygen demand were higher in irrigation canals and lake sampling points. Human activities such as open field defecation, urination, livestock grazing, farming, and swimming were highly correlated with trematode infection. CONCLUSIONS The abundance, occurrence and infection rates of snail species were largely influenced by water physicochemical quality, sanitation and water contact behaviour of the inhabitants. Human activities, such as open field defecation and urination, livestock grazing, farming, and swimming were important predictors of the abundance of cercariae. Therefore, awareness creation should be implemented for proper containment of excreta (urine and faeces) and reducing human and animal contacts with surface waters to reduce snail-borne disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seid Tiku Mereta
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Jemal Bedewi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Delenasaw Yewhalaw
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences & Pathology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Belayhun Mandefro
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, P.O. Box 419, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Yihun Abdie
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Dechassa Tegegne
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Jimma University, P.O. Box 307, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Wondwosen Birke
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Worku Legesse Mulat
- Department of Environmental Health, Wello University, P.O. Box 1145, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Helmut Kloos
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA
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Gondo T. A hierarchical cluster-based segmentation analysis of potential solid waste management health hazards in urban Ethiopia. JAMBA (POTCHEFSTROOM, SOUTH AFRICA) 2019; 11:716. [PMID: 31308893 PMCID: PMC6620491 DOI: 10.4102/jamba.v11i2.716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Many interventions were sought in the past to address the human health and aquatic life implications associated with poor Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) practices. Majority of such interventions failed to recognise that such human health risks and threats to aquatic life are to a large extent moderated by unique characteristics of different urban and rural spaces where such waste is generated. They failed to employ multiple criteria-based evaluation models that are appropriate in depicting the complex and often interrelated criteria inherently associated with MSWM. This study used the Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) to evaluate several interdependent variables that define human health and aquatic life hazards associated with poor MSWM practices. Specifically, HCA was used to identify relative similarities among, and distances between a sample of 26 Ethiopian cities and towns in terms of MSWM health threats. Results indicated that threats to human health and aquatic life are surmountable for cities whose economies are relatively low and lacking capacity in terms of SWM infrastructure, acceptable institutional arrangements and better health-care facilities to deal with associated SWM-induced human health risks. Risk of flood waters owing to low altitude has also compounded the urban health conditions in such cities. Despite being better positioned, the analysis observed that some bigger cities still face problems in terms of effective land use planning policies, commitment towards implementing effective SWM programmes as well as the absence of water safety management plans. It concluded by proposing a number of targeted interventions seeking to improve the human health conditions of cities failing to cope with uncollected waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tendayi Gondo
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, School of Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
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Assessment of Water Quality Across Irrigation Schemes: A Case Study of Wetland Agriculture Impacts in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11040671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Coupled change in land and water use due to increased farming intensity is a main factor affecting water quality and quantity, ecological functions and biodiversity globally. Prolonging growing seasons and increasing productivity in wetlands through irrigation have been targeted for increasing food security, particularly in developing countries. Nevertheless, irrigation and drainage have often been associated with degradation of water quality through increased agrochemical and fertiliser runoff and leaching at local scales. In this study, we investigated water quality in streams used for irrigation in a wetland area in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania. We measured physical-chemical water parameters and collected macroinvertebrates with different sensitivity to water quality across several small irrigation schemes covering various conditions. Turbidity, temperature, nitrate-N, and ammonium-N were significantly higher at sampling sites downstream of irrigation compared to upstream. Macroinvertebrate diversity, richness and average score per taxa (ASPT) were higher in general in sampling sites upstream of irrigation, with more sensitive macroinvertebrates decreasing in abundance downstream. There was a positive correlation between physical-chemical parameters and macroinvertebrate indices across the sites. We demonstrate that macroinvertebrate indices can be used as a quick assessment of water quality in response to irrigation schemes in small-scale farming systems of Tanzania. This in turn can allow us to track changes affecting wetland ecosystem function and biodiversity at higher trophic levels and across larger scales, thereby providing useful early warnings to help avoid widespread degradation under widespread agricultural intensification.
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Development of the Wetland Condition Index (WCI) by Combining the Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) and the Water Environment Index (WEI) for Humid Regions of China. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11030620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Human use and management have a marked effect on wetland from different scales; it is necessary to develop a multi-scale integrated method to assess wetland conditions. So, this research aids the development of the wetland condition index (WCI) for humid regions of China by combining two main sub-indices: (i) the landscape development intensity index (LDI), which assesses human-dominated impacts; and (ii) the water environment index (WEI), which assesses changes in water quality and phytoplankton. We measured terrain and land use in the watersheds of wetlands using remote imaging data with geographic information systems (GIS) software. Also, we monitored the physical and chemical variables of the water bodies of 27 wetlands in urbanized and moderately urbanized areas in Nanjing City of China for this study. There were significant inconsistencies between the city’s level of development and the values of the WCI and its sub-indices. The WCI of urbanized areas was better than that for moderately urbanized areas, and the sub-indices LDI and WEI were only slightly correlated. In other words, wetlands with a low LDI value did not necessarily have a low water environment index value. Due to wetland restoration and human management activities, integrating the LDI and WEI is increasingly necessary for wetlands in urbanized areas than for moderately urbanized areas. This method could guide the design of wetlands to optimize their qualities and benefits to residents and reinforce wetland conservation.
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Bouaroudj S, Menad A, Bounamous A, Ali-Khodja H, Gherib A, Weigel DE, Chenchouni H. Assessment of water quality at the largest dam in Algeria (Beni Haroun Dam) and effects of irrigation on soil characteristics of agricultural lands. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 219:76-88. [PMID: 30529856 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.11.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Beni Haroun Dam is a vital water resource for both potable water and irrigation in eastern Algeria. This study assessed water quality at the dam and investigated the impacts of this water on some soil characteristics of irrigated lands. The physicochemical parameters of the water were measured monthly at eight sites and related to soil characteristics sampled from six irrigated areas, which were compared to non-irrigated soils. The chemical facies of the water were chloride sulfate and calcium magnesium. The water had low levels of cadmium (8.9 μg/L) and lead (4.55 μg/L), excessive contents of chloride and bicarbonate, while pH ranged between 6.5 and 8.4. High levels of electrical conductivity were measured in 39% of samples that exceeded standard for irrigation use. Richard diagram identified four classes of water: (i) C3S1 with 61.5% of samples having moderate or poor quality, (ii) C4S1 (30.2%) having poor or bad quality, (iii) C4S2 (5.2%) having very bad quality, and (iv) C5S3 (3.1%) determined unsuitable for irrigation. A Wilcox diagram revealed that 58% of samples had good quality while 42% were inappropriate for irrigation. Soil pH, EC and OM increased in irrigated soils, particularly in the surface horizon, compared to the control sites; whereas total CaCO3 decreased at all soil depths measured. High levels of bioavailable lead (35.82 μg/g) and cadmium (0.22 μg/g) were recorded in the surface soil. The study suggests that adequate protection measures with appropriate guidelines for various water and soil parameters are needed to minimize the detrimental effects of irrigation water on agricultural lands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bouaroudj
- Laboratory of Biology and Environment, Department of Biology and Ecology, Mentouri Brothers University - Constantine 1, Ain El Bey, 25017, Constantine, Algeria.
| | - Ahmed Menad
- Laboratory of Biology and Environment, Department of Biology and Ecology, Mentouri Brothers University - Constantine 1, Ain El Bey, 25017, Constantine, Algeria.
| | - Azeddine Bounamous
- Materials and Natural Sciences Laboratory, Center Universitaire Abdelhafid Boussof, 43000, Mila, Algeria.
| | - Hocine Ali-Khodja
- Laboratory of Pollution and Water Treatment, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Constantine University 1, Constantine, Algeria.
| | - Abdelfettah Gherib
- Phytochemistry and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, University of Jijel, 18000, Jijel, Algeria.
| | - Dana E Weigel
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, University of Idaho, 83844, Moscow, USA; Riverbend Ecosystems, LLC, Walla Walla, USA.
| | - Haroun Chenchouni
- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences and Natural and Life Sciences, University of Tebessa, 12002, Tebessa, Algeria; Laboratory of Natural Resources and Management of Sensitive Environments 'RNAMS', University of Oum-El-Bouaghi, 04000 Oum-El-Bouaghi, Algeria.
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Assessment of Bacteriological and Physicochemical Quality of Drinking Water from Source to Household Tap Connection in Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 2019:2129792. [PMID: 30906329 PMCID: PMC6397970 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2129792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In Ethiopia, access to improved water supply and sanitation has been very low and hence majority of the communicable diseases are associated with unsafe and inadequate water supply. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics of water from sources to household connection in Nekemte town. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2015 to March 2016. Water samples were collected in triplicates from selected 30 sampling points from source, disinfection point, main distribution system tank, and household taps. All samples were analysed for bacteriological, chemical, and physical quality parameters using standard procedures. The results showed that temperature, pH, turbidity, total dissolved substances, and electrical conductivity of the water samples were varied between 16.9 and 22°C, 6.8–7.0, nil-12 NTU, 50–70 mg/l, and 40–46 µS/cm, respectively. Phosphate and nitrate concentrations of the water samples also ranged between 0.65 and 1 mg/l and 2.2–6.5 mg/l, respectively. Free residual chlorine concentration in the majority of the water samples was less than 0.5 mg/l. All samples were positive for total coliform with counts ranging from 12 to 120 CFU/100 ml, whereas faecal coliforms were detected in only 37% of tap water samples. In general, the majority of the tested parameters were within the permissible range of both the WHO and Ethiopian drinking water standards. However, Fe, Mn, faecal coliforms, total coliforms, and temperature did not conform to both WHO and Ethiopian drinking water standards. Based on the results, we can conclude that water quality deterioration was both at the sources and in the supply networks. Hence, proper drainage, sewage disposal systems, and sufficient disinfection of water with chlorine are of prime importance to deliver safe drinking water to the residents of Nekemte town.
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Threshold Responses of Macroinvertebrate Communities to Stream Velocity in Relation to Hydropower Dam: A Case Study from The Guayas River Basin (Ecuador). WATER 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/w10091195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The Guayas River basin is one of the most important water resources in Ecuador, but the expansion of human activities has led to a degraded water quality. The purpose of this study was (1) to explore the importance of physical-chemical variables in structuring the macroinvertebrate communities and (2) to determine if the thresholds in stream velocity related to macroinvertebrate community composition could be identified in the Guayas River basin. Thus, macroinvertebrates and physical–chemical water quality variables were sampled at 120 locations during the dry season of 2013 in the Guayas River basin. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was performed to identify relevant physical–chemical characteristics of the river influencing the distribution of the macroinvertebrate communities. Threshold indicator taxa analysis (TITAN) was used to discriminate between the macroinvertebrate community related to stagnant waters (Daule–Peripa reservoir) and to running waters. CCA indicates that the most important environmental factors influencing the distribution of macroinvertebrate communities were stream velocity, chlorophyll concentration, conductivity, temperature and elevation. Tipping points for the macroinvertebrate community were defined by stream velocity at 0.03 m/s and 0.4 m/s, i.e., stagnant-water (including dam-related reservoirs) taxa start to quickly decrease in abundance and frequency at 0.03 m/s while running-water taxa start to quickly increase in abundance and frequency at 0.03 m/s until a stream velocity of 0.4 m/s. The results provide essential information to define environmental flows to further support water management plans of the Guayas River basin. Information obtained will be useful for management of similar rivers in South America, as well as the rest of the world.
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A Drivers-Pressure-State-Impact-Responses Framework to Support the Sustainability of Fish and Fisheries in Lake Tana, Ethiopia. SUSTAINABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/su10082957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, has a remarkable and conservation-worthy assemblage of fish species, requiring fisheries management for sustainable exploitation. However, due to anthropogenic impacts, many of these fish species are threatened. Hence, an improved management of these resources is recommended. To allow a more sustainable exploitation of natural resources, a better understanding of the cause-effect relationships between anthropogenic impacts and environmental components is fundamental. The Drivers-Pressure-State-Impact-Responses (DPSIR) framework is a useful tool to describe these links in a meaningful way to managers and policy makers. Despite its potential, application of DPSIR is virtually lacking in developing countries. This paper assessed the potential of the DPSIR framework and used it to comprehensively describe the available knowledge and management needs in the lake catchment. Rapid population growth and the economic transformation are the main driving forces leading to various pressures such as water quality and wetlands degradation as well as declining fish community, which is detrimental to the socio-economic state and health of the local inhabitants. As feedback to the driving forces, pressures, state changes and impacts, optimal multi-level responses are developed. This study aims at providing policy makers a better understanding of the lake catchment in order to bridge the gap between science and decision-making.
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Yigezu G, Mandefro B, Mengesha Y, Yewhalaw D, Beyene A, Ahmednur M, Abdie Y, Kloos H, Mereta ST. Habitat suitability modelling for predicting potential habitats of freshwater snail intermediate hosts in Omo-Gibe river basin, Southwest Ethiopia. ECOL INFORM 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Alemu K, Assefa B, Kifle D, Kloos H. Nitrogen and Phosphorous Removal from Municipal Wastewater Using High Rate Algae Ponds. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s41403-018-0036-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Zhang Y, Chu C, Liu L, Xu S, Ruan X, Ju M. Water Environment Assessment as an Ecological Red Line Management Tool for Marine Wetland Protection. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14080870. [PMID: 28767096 PMCID: PMC5580574 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14080870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A 'red line' was established, identifying an area requiring for ecological protection in Tianjin, China. Within the protected area of the red line area, the Qilihai wetland is an important ecotope with complex ecological functions, although the ecosystem is seriously disturbed due to anthropogenic activities in the surrounding areas. This study assesses the water quality status of the Qilihai wetlands to identify the pollution sources and potential improvements based on the ecological red line policy, to improve and protect the waters of the Qilihai wetlands. An indicator system was established to assess water quality status using single factor evaluation and a comprehensive evaluation method, supported by data from 2010 to 2013. Assessment results show that not all indicators met the requirement of the Environmental Quality Standards for Surface Water (GB3838-2002) and that overall, waters in the Qilihai wetland were seriously polluted. Based on these findings we propose restrictions on all polluting anthropogenic activities in the red line area and implementation of restoration projects to improve water quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Chunli Chu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Lei Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Shengguo Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Xiaoxue Ruan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Meiting Ju
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Gezie A, Anteneh W, Dejen E, Mereta ST. Effects of human-induced environmental changes on benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages of wetlands in Lake Tana Watershed, Northwest Ethiopia. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:152. [PMID: 28275984 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-5853-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Wetlands of Lake Tana Watershed provide various ecological and socioeconomic functions. However, they are losing their vigor at alarming rate due to unwise management. Hence, there is an urgent need to monitor and assess these resources so as to identify the major drivers of its degradation and to provide information for management decisions. In this context, we aimed to assess the effects of human activities on macroinvertebrate assemblages of wetlands in Lake Tana Watershed. Biotic and abiotic data were collected from 46 sampling sites located in eight wetlands. A total of 2568 macroinvertebrates belonging to 46 families were recorded. Macroinvertebrate metrics such as Biological Monitoring Working Party score, Shannon diversity index, Ephemeroptera and odonata family richness, and total family richness portrayed a clear pattern of decreasing with increasing in human disturbances, whereas Family biotic index score, which is an indicator of organic pollution, increased with increasing in human disturbances. The regression analysis also revealed that livestock grazing, leather tanning, and eucalyptus plantation were important predictors of macroinvertebrate metrics (p < 0.05). In conclusion, human activities in and around the wetlands such as farming, leather tanning, solid waste dumping, and effluent discharges were contributed to the degradation of water quality and decreasing in the macroinvertebrate richness and diversity. These alterations could also reduce the availability of wetland products (sedges, craft materials, etc.) and the related ecosystem services. This in turn has an adverse effect on food security and poverty alleviation with considerable impact on communities who heavily depend on wetland products for their livelihood. Therefore, it is essential to formulate wetland policy for achieving wise use goals and necessary legal and institutional backup for sustainable wetland management in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayenew Gezie
- Department of Biology, Bahir Dar University, P.O. Box 79, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Wassie Anteneh
- Department of Biology, Bahir Dar University, P.O. Box 79, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Eshete Dejen
- Intergovernmental Authority on Development, P.O.Box. 2653, Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti
| | - Seid Tiku Mereta
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Technology, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia.
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