Evaluation of the use of Ancistrus brevipinnis (Loricariidae) as a bioindicator of water quality in the Ilha river, RS, Brazil

The use of fish as bioindicators the effect contaminants in aquatic environment is usual. However, detritivorous species are less used for environmental monitoring. Thus, aim this study was to evaluate Ancistrus brevipinnis a potential bioindicator water quality Ilha River, RS (southern Brazil) and compared result obtained routine (Bryconamericus iheringii). For purpose, condition factor (CF), presence morphological changes gills quantification metals different tissues specimens collected three sites River were evaluated. A homogeneity distribution data observed CF B. iheringii, whereas A. showed an oscillation CF. Histological analysis greater sensitivity iheringii reproducing characteristics its gill lamellae, which not brevipinnis. Conversely, Cr higher intestine samples at all collections due feeding behavior. reinforce column Bryconamericus monitoring, even if they do reflect whole ecosystem. Further studies evaluating other biomarkers, such gastrointestinal tract, may assist describing more related sediment.