Impact of Physico-Chemical Parameters on the Spatial Distribution of Phytoplankton in Beni Haroun Dam (Mila, Northeastern Algeria)

Et Al., Rebbah

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.442612

Impact of Physico-Chemical Parameters on the Spatial Distribution of Phytoplankton in Beni Haroun Dam (Mila, Northeastern Algeria)

Author

Rebbah et al.

10.21608/ejabf.2025.442612

Abstract

This study examined the spatial distribution of physicochemical parameters and phytoplankton diversity in the waters of the Beni Haroun Dam (Mila, Northeastern Algeria). Twenty sampling stations were analyzed for various parameters, including nutrients (PO₄, NH₄, NO₂, NO₃, SiO₄), salinity, as well as water quality indicators (electrical conductivity, TDS, pH, temperature, and turbidity). The results revealed significant spatial variability of the parameters. Nutrient concentrations and other parameters varied, with phosphate (PO₄) levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.72 mg/L and ammonium (NH₄) from 0.02 to 0.29 mg/L. Phytoplankton diversity was assessed at the genus level, revealing a rich community dominated by phyla such as Cyanobacteria, Dinoflagellata, and Chlorophyta. The most abundant genera were Oscillatoria, Anabaena, and Ceratium. Stations S20, S7, and S5 showed higher diversity, with higher concentrations of nutrients and sodium, while stations S16 and S17 exhibited lower diversity. The study highlights the impact of environmental factors, such as nutrient availability and temperature, on phytoplankton distribution, providing insights for water management and ecosystem monitoring.

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