Scholarly record
SPATIO-TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF EUTROPHICATION AND HABITAT LOSS IN COAS3TAL LAKES: A CASE STUDY FROM THE KAMCHIYA-SHKORPILOVTSI SECTOR, BULGARIAN BLACK SEA COAST
Abstract
The study presents the first comprehensive spatio-temporal analysis of eutrophication and the consequent loss of sensitive aquatic habitats in the transitional water bodies along the Kamchiya-Shkorpilovtsi sector of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The research focuses on the Maznia Azmak Lake, an old Kamchiya riverbed integral to the Kamchia Nature Reserve and two Natura 2000 protected areas. The primary objective was to assess the scale and rate of eutrophication and its impact on aquatic habitats, employing modern methodologies such as drone surveys, high-precision GPS geodetic measurements, and bathymetric investigations. Data was gathered from 2019 to 2023, including key physicochemical parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, temperature, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total nitrogen, and phosphorus). Results indicate that Maznia Azmak Lake exhibited stable pH levels (7.8-8.3) and increasing conductivity (up to 964 ?S/cm), with dissolved oxygen levels varying significantly (4.8-9.3 mg/l). The lake's COD and BOD values suggested moderate organic pollution, with nutrient levels remaining low. Seasonal salinity variations were observed, correlating with low summer water levels and sea wave activity. The macrophyte analysis revealed a heterogeneous mix of species with minimal helophyte dominance. Popovo Blato Lake demonstrated low dissolved oxygen levels and high conductivity (peaking at 992 ?S/cm), with COD reaching 40.6 ml O2/l in September 2023, indicating severe organic pollution. Conversely, Petrovo Blato Lake had variable dissolved oxygen and high conductivity, with low nutrient levels, though occasional COD and BOD peaks suggested episodic pollution events. The mouth of the Fandakliyska River, showing stable pH and conductivity, had relatively higher dissolved oxygen levels, pointing to better overall water quality compared to the lakes. This area's episodic pollution events were reflected in variable COD and BOD values. The results underscore the critical need for ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions to mitigate pollution and preserve these vulnerable aquatic habitats. This pioneering study contributes valuable baseline data and insights into the eutrophication processes affecting the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, emphasizing the importance of preserving these ecosystems for their biodiversity and ecological services.
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