La comunidad zoobentónica en la evaluación de la calidad ambiental de la zona costera del Río de la Plata afectada por hidrocarburos.

OCÓN, C., A. RODRIGUES CAPÍTULO, M. TANGORRA Y A. C. PAGGI

Mar del Plata

Jornada; V Jornadas Nacionales de Ciencias del Mar. XIII Coloquio Argentino de Oceanografía.; 2003

INIDEP- Univ. de Mar del Plata-

The objective of this work was to analyse the zoobenthic community of coastal sector of Río de la Plata river after an petroleum spill. Sampling stations were located in sites representatives of the different landscapes. The structure, composition and seasonal changes of this community, taxocenosis evolution along the time and physical-chemical parameters were registered. Recovery signs were evaluated by means of biotic indices and presence of sensitive species. Tolerant species were dominant in sites heavily polluted in correspondence with low values of diversity and water quality according the applied biotic indices. In certain zones the sediments quality still was impoverished, with a visible oil film in surface. However, in few points the values of biotic indices increases for the last sampling date, this could indicate an improvement in environmental conditions. In the study area is still difficult to know how long will take to return to the balance status.