Influência do uso e ocupação do solo urbano na qualidade da água e fauna aquática subterrânea

Abstract

The Serra Geral Aquifer System (SASG) is a valuable water resource, and its conservation is essential to guarantee water supply and environmental sustainability. However, negative environmental impacts resulting from human activities can harm its quality. This study investigates the effects of urban land use and occupation on water quality and aquifer fauna, through the analysis of physical, chemical, microbiological, and faunal components, as well as the identification of factors that can affect communities of organisms in urban areas. The thesis is structured into two chapters: the first addresses the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of the SASG, while the second explores the subterranean aquatic fauna of water parameters since there are no records of studies for this aquifer. As a result, some points showed contaminant levels above legal limits, indicating potential environmental and health risks. The presence of contaminants such as heavy metals, thermotolerant coliforms, and Escherichia coli indicates the influence of human activities. The groups Nematoda, Eutardigrada, Monogononta, Cyclopoida, Harpacticoida, and Lecane sp represented the fauna. The distribution of these taxa varied between sampling points, with some taxa found in multiple locations and others in specific locations. Given the above, continuous monitoring is necessary to mitigate contamination. The importance of this study in guiding policies for the management and protection of groundwater is also highlighted, highlighting the need for standardized protocols for the preservation of fauna and this essential environment for biodiversity and human well-being.