Assessment of seasonal differences of ecological state of lotic ecosystems and applicability of some biotic indices in the basin of Lake Sevan (Armenia): case study of Masrik River

Abstract

Abstract Complex studies of seasonal differences of the ecological state of Masrik River (Armenia) were realized in 2017. Water quality was assessed by BMWP, ASPT and FBI indices based on studies of qualitative and quantitative structures of benthic macro-invertebrates. Potential reference sites in the basin were revealed using the %EPT taxa index in addition to water quality assessment by bioindication methods as well as hydro-chemical, -physical and -morphological measurements. The applicability of the used biotic indices for the different parts of Masrik River was discussed.