The Use of Benthic Macroinvertebrates and Insects for Evaluation of Kandola Shella (UDUS Stream) Status

Kandola Shella Stream (UDUS stream) supports significant fishing and irrigation activities for the local community’s daily routine needs. This study evaluated water quality using macroinvertebrates and aquatic insects from September 2023 to March 2024. Macroinvertebrates and Insect species were sampled, preserved and identified at the Entomology Laboratory of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto using standard keys and manuals. Three biotic indices (%EPT, BMWP and ASPT) and one diversity index (Shannon-Weiner index) were used for water quality assessment. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in physicochemical parameters across the months (p<0.05) but not among sampling locations (p>0.05). A correlation was observed between physicochemical parameters and Macroinvertebrate abundance. The %EPT index indicated no sensitive species at any sampling location. Macroinvertebrate abundance was highest at location D (200 individuals), followed by location C (55), location B (50) and location A (22). The Insects’ result revealed highest at location A (219), followed by location B (122), location D (103) and location C (90 individuals). The study concluded that Kandola Shella stream is slightly polluted, with minimal chemical and organic pollutants concentration. The presence of pollution-tolerant species and the absence of sensitive species, therefore, suggest the need for continuous monitoring to manage and mitigate pollution, ensuring the health of this essential water resource.