Qualitative and Quantitative Data on Macrobenthic Fauna of the Romanian Sector of the Danube River: 2023 Sampling Campaign (May – April, 2023) – PN 23 30 03 03, National Project

This study provides both qualitative and quantitative analyses of macrobenthic fauna, aiming to establish an annual monitoring network and evaluate the conservation status of selected sites. The research was conducted within the framework of the national project “Optimizing the sustainable management of natural resources, enhancing water security, and increasing the resilience of ecosystems in the Lower Danube Basin, impacted by climate change and anthropogenic interventions” (PN 23 30 03 03). Between March 20 to April 10, 2023 eleven macrozoobenthos samples were gathered from the following sectors: Isaccea (Mile 54-58), Giurgiulești (Mile 72-76.5), Seimeni (km 287-294), Downstream Oltenița (km 400-407), and Upstream Oltenița (km 420-429). Additional sampling occurred from September 19 to October 7, 2023, resulting in the collection of 14 macrobenthic fauna samples from sectors including Ceatal Izmail (Km 114.5-111.5 Chilia Branch, M41-44 Tulcea Branch, M 45.5–52.5 Danube), Reni (M63-67), Gropeni (Km 186–196.5), Fermecatu (Km 317–325), and Turcescu (Km 338.5–347), supporting ongoing monitoring and conservation evaluations.