Potpeć Reservoir ecosystem health: An analysis based on the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI)

Abstract

Freshwater ecosystems are increasingly subjected to anthropogenic pressures that compromise their ecological integrity, resulting in degraded water quality and altered biological communities. To assess the ecological status of the Potpeć Reservoir, we employed the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI)—a multi-metric tool comprising 12 fish-based metrics—across three sampling campaigns conducted in 2008, 2011, and 2017. The obtained IBI scores were 30, 36, and 32, respectively (maximum possible score: 60). While nine metrics remained stable throughout the study period, interannual variability in three metrics accounted for the observed fluctuations in the overall index values. In particular, changes in total individuals, trophic composition, and the presence of sensitive taxa were the main drivers of index variability. These results highlight the utility of biologically-based assessment frameworks in tracking ecological changes and evaluating the impact of human activities on reservoir ecosystems. The application of such indices provides a scientifically grounded basis for the development of management strategies aimed at preserving or improving the ecological condition of aquatic environments under increasing environmental stress.