Evaluation of zoobenthic assemblages and recovery following petroleum spill in a coastal area of Río de la Plata estuarine system, South America

OCON, C. S.; RODRIGUES CAPÍTULO, A.; PAGGI, A. C.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

Elsevier

Lugar: Amsterdam; Año: 2008 vol. 156 p. 82 - 89

0269-7491

Abstract: The aim of this work was to analyse zoobenthic assemblages in the coastal sector of the Rio de La Plata, Argentina, after a petroleum spill. Sampling stations were located in representative sites of various landscapes. Structure, composition, physico-chemical parameters and seasonal changes were recorded in order to assess taxocenosis evolution during the period ranging from 1999-2003. Recovery signs were estimated by means of biotic indices and the presence of sensitive species. Tolerant species were dominant in heavily polluted sites, related to low diversity and water quality values, according to the biotic indices used. In certain zones, sediment quality remains impoverished, with a visible oil film on the surface. However,during the last sampling, some points showed an increase in biotic indices, pointing to a slight improvement in environmental conditions estimated by means of biotic indices and the presence of sensitive species.