Water quality assessment in reservoirs: Comparative analysis of bioindication systems based on macrobenthos characteristics

Data on the Ruza and Mozhaisk reservoirs are used to analyze the applicability of different sampling methods and bioindication systems for rapid water quality assessment. The collected data were analyzed with the use of twelve biotic indices and their modifications. The mean water quality estimate in the coastal zones of both reservoirs varied from “moderate” to “good” and corresponded to α-mesosaprobic zone. The best performance in saprobity assessment was demonstrated by Pantle–Buck index modified by M.V. Chertoprud in the coastal zone and Balushkina index in soft soils in the central zones of the reservoirs. It is proposed to extend the number of indicator taxa in Pantle–Buck index modified by M.V. Chertoprud by incorporating taxa typical of soft soils, in particular, Chironomid larvae from Chironomus plumosus group. Recommendations are given for carrying out express-monitoring of the state of reservoirs.