Limnological Properties of Euphrates River in AL-Anbar Province, Iraq

Aims: The physical and chemical properties of water are important in determining the suitability of water for various uses on the one hand and knowing the level of environmental pollution of this water on the other hand, as these variables significantly impact the biodiversity in that water body. This study aimed to reveal the level of pollution occurring in the waters of the Euphrates River through these characteristics and to identify the sources of this pollution. Instrument Methods: From April 2022 to March 2023, the water quality of the Euphrates River was examined between Ramadi and Al-Qaim cities. The temperature, total suspended solids, electrical conductivity, pH, total dissolved salts, salinity, calcium, sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, and sulfate levels were measured through specialized devices or through mathematical equations approved in the concerned scientific references. The correlation coefficient between the involved parameters was examined regarding location and time. Findings: Most of the measurements were within the allowable range, but some values exceeded the limits of WHO regulations, such as electrical conductivity and total dissolved salts values in Ramadi city which reached 1245.53±117.47µS/cm and 793.17±46.41mg/l, respectively. Conclusion: River pollution levels varied from one region to another within the study area, as river water is generally suitable for irrigation but not drinking without pretreatment processes.