Comparative analysis of benthic macroinvertebrate communities in the upper section of Ivin do basin, Gabon

In this study we compared the structure and diversity of benthic macroinvertebrate communities, as well as the physicochemical conditions, in two sub-basins of the upper Ivin do basin that are subject to contrasting gold mining processing (artisanal and industrial). The results revealed a significant physicochemical difference (p < 0.05) regarding temperature, dissolved oxygen and pH, while conductivity and turbidity do not appear to be significantly different (p > 0.05). The sampling campaign identified 2,436 individuals and 96% of them were Arthropods. The high proportion of EPT taxa (63%) indicates that the site’s ecological integrity is generally well preserved. High diversity indices indicate balanced stands and suggest that mining activities have a limited direct ecological impact in the short term. The differences observed between the two sub-basins appear to be linked to physical changes to the habitat and landscape fragmentation resulting from mining infrastructure.