Assessment of Vjosa River Water Quality Using Chemical Parameters

Abstract

Albania possesses a diverse range of water ecosystems. The objective of water quality assessment is to identify sources of pollution and develop sustainable strategies for managing water resources. Pollution from both natural and anthropogenic sources has the potential to cause harm to aquatic ecosystems. Of particular concern is nutrient enrichment, which can have adverse effects on surface water quality. Excessive nutrients can lead to eutrophication in surface waters, causing algae blooms and significant alterations in the water ecosystem's biodiversity. Our study aimed to evaluate the Vjosa River's water quality based on chemical parameters. The Vjosa River is a vital water ecosystem in Albania, the Balkans, and Europe, renowned for its biodiversity and water quality. Our investigation was carried out from November 2021 to May 2023. Five water sampling points were chosen in the Vjosa River and water samples were analysed for nutrient forms such as nitrogen and phosphorus. The values of ammonium ranged from 0.06 mg/l to 0.14 mg/l, while NO₂ ranged from 0.014 to 0.066 mg/l, and NO₃ range from 0.47 mg/l to 0.66 mg/l. The concentration of phosphates ranged from 0.024 to 0.068mg/l. Based on most of the chemical parameters analysed, water quality in the Vjosa River is of high quality when compared to the WFD standards.