Biophysico-Chemical and Socioeconomic Study of Two Major Manila Esteros

Abstract

Two major Manila esteros, the Estero de San Miguel and Estero de Quiapo, were studied to determine their ecological status. Analyses of physicochemical parameters of the esteros – turbidity, temperature, salinity, EC, pH, DO, BOD, COD,TKN, TP, chl-a, and oil and grease- showed the estero waters fall under Class D water quality criterion. TKN and TP values indicated hypertrophic conditions AT all stations. Low chl-a values were indicative of stressful conditions to the primary producers. Mean differences of most of the parameters differed significantly between stations and season. Four fish, Rasbora maculata (Kataba), Gambusia affinis (Mosquito Fish), Anabas testudineus (Climbing perch) and Hypostomus plecostomus (Janitor fish), with Rasbora and Gambusia inhabit the esteros. Fish communities exhibited high evenness but low in dominance and diversity. 19 phytoplankton genera - Cyanophyta (3 spp), Chlorophyta (9 spp) and Bacillariophyta (7 spp) thrived in the esteros. A socioeconomic study revealed that attitudes and actions of stakeholders to their esteros were influenced primarily by economic status, and educational and cultural background. Survey also showed the awareness of the communities on the problems of esteros and their willingness to cooperate to rehabilitate their polluted river system. Institutional initiatives such as environmental education and community-based programs were examined as possible approaches towards effective rehabilitation and attainment of sustainability of Manila esteros