Water quality of rivers with and without riparian vegetation in rural Brazil, assessed using abiotic parameters and freshwater invertebrate surveys in 2022

Data were collected from sixteen river sites within and around the Iracambi NGO (non governmental organisation) land in Rosario da Limeira, Minas Gerais, Brazil, during the wet season from September 28th to December 18th, 2022. The sites included eight rivers in unprotected areas and eight in protected riparian zones. The dataset includes measurements of abiotic parameters: air and water temperature, salinity, flow rate, pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrate, and rainfall. Freshwater invertebrate biodiversity was surveyed using modified kick sampling, and Biotic Index scores were calculated for identified invertebrate groups. Abiotic parameters were measured in-situ using accessible equipment to ensure ease of use by non-scientific staff. Air and water temperature, and salinity were measured using the TDSTestr probe. Conductivity was determined using the Lutron Intelligent Meter, while nitrates were measured with the LaMotte Octa-Slide Code 1100. Dissolved oxygen was assessed using the LabQuest DO2 probe, and pH was measured with the LabQuest pH probe. Flow rate was calculated using a neutrally buoyant cork and a timer. Rainfall was collected using a modified 1 L plastic bottle with the bottleneck removed. Freshwater invertebrate biodiversity was surveyed using a scoop net with a 5 mm aperture mesh, and Biotic Index scores were calculated for identified groups based on their pollution tolerance. The data were mapped using ArcGIS and analysed statistically using available packages in RStudio.