Analysis of Eutrophication Levels in the Coastal Waters of Parepare City

Abstract

Marine eutrophication is the increasing concentrations of nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, in marine ecosystems due to anthropogenic activities such as domestic, agricultural, and industrial waste disposal. This nutrient accumulation triggers excessive phytoplankton growth (algal bloom), which can cause the death of marine biota, disrupt the food chain, and decrease fisheries' productivity. This research aimed to analyze the level of eutrophication in the coastal waters of Parepare City. The eutrophication level was examined at four stations using the trophic index (TRIX) to achieve the research objectives. The results showed that some water quality parameters exceeded environmental standards, such as ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite, thus contributing to increased eutrophication. Based on the trophic index calculation, the level of eutrophication at the four stations was categorized in mesotrophic status ranging from 2 ≤ TRIX < 4. Station IV recorded the highest trophic index value of 3.00, which is located around the Cempae Fish Landing Base and Suppa Power Plant, an area with a high intensity of human activities. These waters reflect a moderate level of primary productivity.