Usongo A Patience; Ediamam Epalle Guy Marcel; Mboza J. C. Yengeh
Abstract
Water, an ecosystem service of Mount Manengouba is under threat. The study analyzed the spatiotemporal dynamics of water quality and quantity parameters from three streams (Shut, Chambre noir and Poladam) at three points (source, human habitation upstream and human habitation downstream) ...
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Water, an ecosystem service of Mount Manengouba is under threat. The study analyzed the spatiotemporal dynamics of water quality and quantity parameters from three streams (Shut, Chambre noir and Poladam) at three points (source, human habitation upstream and human habitation downstream) during the dry and rainy seasons. Samples collected were analyzed for quality parameters. The water quality index (WQI) was computed from 12 parameters. The ANOVA and Independent Sample Tests were used to investigate if significant variations in water quality and quantity parameters exist. The WHO standard was used to compare quality parameters. Results revealed that, with the exception of HCO32-, Shut stream observed no seasonal variation in water quality parameters. Spatially, variations were statistically significant for pH and K+. Chambre Noir showed a significant seasonal variation for EC, Ca2+, SO42-, HCO32-and Coliform counts. Spatially, coliform count varied significantly. Poladam stream revealed a significant seasonal variability in Ca2+, SO42-, HCO32-, NO3 while spatially pH and K+ showed significant variations. The differences in discharge were not significant within the streams over space and time but for Poladam with a significant seasonal variation in discharge. WQI showed that the water at various sampling points was not suitable for consumption and none were in accordance with the WHO drinking water standard. The study concludes that increasing human activities are a severe threat to water quality and quantity parameters. To ensure sustainable water delivery, water catchment laws should be adopted and enforced towards effective management and control along streams within Nkongsamba.
