A comparative study of several types of indices for river quality assessment

Abstract Water is vital for humans, plants, and animals; unfortunately, some anthropogenic activities adversely alter water quality (WQ). Many indicators can be used WQ assessment; fortunately, extensive data simplified by using indices (WQIs). The main difference among WQIs lies in the way of assessing pollution number types used; therefore, selection a reliable WQI should first step. This research aimed to compare several evaluate their effectiveness. Eighteen sampling sites were monitored, selected showed different results. Biological indexes exhibited significant statistical correlation yet In addition, biological outcomes from physicochemical index. high concentrations phosphates, fecal coliforms, oxygen demand, found most rivers, responsible influencing results index; however, had no adverse effect on macroinvertebrate's existence; assessment better than Rapid Bioassessment Protocol index, based visual habitat observations, proved an easy classify adequate replacement indices.