Characteristics of Aquatic Insects as Bioindicators of Water Pollution in the Kokoq Babak River, Kebon Kongok Landfill

Abstract

Water pollution is a critical environmental concern, especially near landfills. Landfill waste management generates leachate containing hazardous substances that can degrade water quality and alter aquatic habitat structure. This study assesses the condition of the Kokoq Babak River, impacted by the Kebon Kongok landfill, by using water striders (Gerridae) as bioindicators of environmental quality. The research employs a descriptive quantitative method with a correlational approach to explore the relationship between the Diversity Index (H') and Family Biotic Index (FBI) of Gerridae species and the water’s physicochemical parameters. Analytical results demonstrate that the physicochemical parameters of the Kokoq Babak River generally comply with the quality standards stipulated in the Government Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia No. 22 of 2021, including temperature (28.6–28.9°C), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) (141–250 ppm), Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (12.9–13.7 mg/l), and pH (7–8). Species distribution identification revealed three primary species: Aquarius najas, Gerris lacustris, and Aquarius paludum. The average diversity index (H') across the three observation points was 0.78, placing it in the "Low" diversity category. Conversely, the FBI value of 5 indicates that the water quality remains in the "Good" category, with pollution levels within tolerable limits.