Assessment of Water Quality Variations and Trophic State of the Joumine Reservoir (Tunisia) by Multivariate Analysis

Abstract

North Tunisia’s Joumine reservoir provides water for drinking and agriculture irrigation purposes. Therefore, its water quality is crucial, especially with the recurrence of dry years in a global climate change context. This study aims to evaluate its environmental parameters, phytoplankton community structure, and trophic status. The data were newly analyzed using multivariate statistical methods and redundancy analysis (RDA) with the Trophic State Index (TSI) and Trophic State Index deviation (TSID). Monthly sampling occurred from May 2021 to June 2022 at eight stations. Water samples were collected to assess physical-chemical parameters and Chlorophyll-a, as well as to identify phytoplankton species. Three seasonal clusters of summer, autumn, and spring were identified. Water nutrient variations primarily resulted from point and non-point source contamination, along with natural processes. Carlson’s Trophic State Index (CTSI) indicates a eutrophic status for the Joumine reservoir. TSID indicated there was no algal turbidity in the reservoir. The study identified 25 phytoplankton taxa, with Chlorophyceae exhibiting high densities and diversities. RDA revealed that NO3−, NH4+, DO, pH, water flow, and water temperature were the most important environmental factors controlling phytoplankton structure in the Joumine reservoir. The outcomes of this study may provide helpful information to improve the management of the Joumine reservoir.