The main task of the expedition is to comprehensively assess the state of the ecosystem and fish stocks in order to understand how the aquatic environment feels under the growing stress of the metropolis.
Scientists didn't just record individual indicators — they collected a whole picture of the river's life. During the work, control catches were carried out to assess the species composition and abundance of fish. At the same time, hydrochemical water samples were taken — they will show how clean the river is and whether there are any dangerous impurities in it. Samples of plankton and benthos were also collected.: These tiny organisms are important indicators of the health of the reservoir, because they are the first to react to any changes in the environment. Measurements of water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels have become equally important — these parameters directly affect the survival of fish and other inhabitants of the river.
The collected data will help not only to assess the current state of local species populations, but also to identify possible anthropogenic pressures, such as the effects of runoff, recreational activity, or other impacts.
Based on the results, scientists will prepare scientifically based recommendations for the rational use and conservation of aquatic biological resources in the capital region, so that the Oka River continues to remain alive and rich in fish.
VNIRO Press Service
