The Phytoplankton Biota Variation on the TimiȘ River According to the Chemistry And Hydrology of the Water Course

The Timiș River is the biggest tributary of the Banat catchment area. It springs at an elevation of 1145 m, under Piatra Goznei peak. Due to the fact that it crosses several relief forms, its hydrology, chemistry and biological characteristics are modified in consequence.

The chemical and biological analysis of the water course and their correlation with hydrological data displayed evidence of the interdependence of these factors. The phytoplankton composition and richness are directly influenced by river’s chemistry and hydrology. In the mountain area, the flow and the speed of the watercourse are inducing a specific flora and fauna for the area. In the lower areas, the river hydrology triggers a change in the biological characteristics as the water chemistry changes. The mountain species are adapted to rocky substrata in order to resist high water velocity and pressure. In the lower areas they are replaced by lowland species adapted to larger yet slower flows.

The Timiș River is a watercourse that did not undergo major qualitative changes in terms of water quality.