Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIV
Written by Ana Bianca PAVEL, Irina CATIANIS, Laura DUTU, Gabriel IORDACHE, Catalina GAVRILA
The Danube Delta’s ecosystems, encompassing riverine branches, lakes, and wetlands, face ecological pressures driven by natural and anthropogenic factors. This study evaluates the physico-chemical characteristics of surface water samples collected in September and October 2024 from 25 locations in the Gorgova-Uzlina Depression and 32 sites near the Izmail and Sf. Gheorghe confluences. Measurements were performed in situ using the EXO2 multiparameter probe (YSI, USA), which recorded parameters including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll "a," turbidity, electrical conductivity, and oxidation-reduction potential. Results indicate that most water samples fall within Class I and II of the Romanian water quality classification (Order 161/2006), reflecting good ecological status. Local variations in dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and chlorophyll "a" suggest potential ecological vulnerabilities, particularly in areas with elevated sediment loads. Conductivity and salinity values confirm the freshwater nature of the investigated sites. The findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring to assess seasonal and anthropogenic influences on water quality and maintain the ecological integrity of the Danube Delta’s aquatic ecosystems.
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