Author(s) :

Munganga Kilingwa Clément, Mumbanga Ngwen Louis, Lusasi Swana Willy, Nsimanda Ipey Camille, Pwema Kiamfu Victor.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study was carried out to determine benthic macroinvertebrate diversity and water quality in the Nzinda River in the town of Kikwit in Kwilu province, Democratic Republic of Congo. Sampling campaigns were carried out using a Surber net between August 2023 and May 2024 at four stations along a 9 km stretch. A total of 979 specimens of benthic macroinvertebrates belonging to three classes (Insects, Gastropods and Clitellates) and thirteen families were inventoried. Insects, particularly beetles, were the most abundant. Physico-chemical analyses reveal a slightly acidic hydrogen potential, high temperatures and variable turbidity, suggesting human impacts on water quality. The Shannon and Simpson diversity indices show variations between stations. Station IV has the highest species richness. Although water quality is classified as fair, biodiversity challenges persist. The dominance of Hydrophilidae and Normalized Global Biological Index scores similar to those of the dry season underline the need for ongoing monitoring to preserve biodiversity and water quality in the Nzinda River. Increased turbidity, linked to erosion, could impair photosynthesis. Low levels of conductivity, nitrate and phosphate ions, as well as the absence of potassium, require special monitoring to avoid ecological imbalance in this hydrosystem.

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