Analysis of benthic macroinvertebrates, biological water quality and conservation value of a tropical river and UNESCO ‐protected environment

A tropical river within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, demonstrates significant conservation value through its benthic macroinvertebrate diversity and naturalness. The study, conducted from June 2015 to March 2016, identified 27 macroinvertebrate taxa, dominated by the Ephemeroptera, Odonata, and Trichoptera (EOT) group, with notable presence of the flagship species Margaritifera margaritifera. Taxa richness and abundance inversely correlated with vegetation removal, farming activities, total suspended solids, flow velocity, nitrate, and phosphate levels. The river's naturalness was assessed based on habitat alteration, land use, and hydrological modifications, revealing its ecological integrity alongside cultural significance. These findings suggest the site may be re-considered for UNESCO World Heritage status based on mixed properties.

Akindele, E. O., Adeniyi, A. V., Oyeku, O. G., & Adu, B. W. (2017). Analysis of benthic macroinvertebrates, biological water quality and conservation value of a tropical river and UNESCO‐protected environment. African Journal of Ecology, 56(3), 488–498. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12482