Calidad del aire en tres parques recreacionales del Cantón Cuenca, Ecuador mediante el uso de Bioindicadores Liquénicos

Abstract

The study assessed the air quality in three recreational parks in Cuenca, Ecuador, using lichen bioindicators in the La Luz, Tarqui-Guzho, and Ictocruz parks. Primary data regarding the physicochemical air quality were collected on-site from the bioindicators, and secondary data were obtained from the Municipal Mobility Company, EMOV-EP. Ictocruz Park has a more extraordinary species richness than Tarqui-Guzho and La Luz. The atmospheric purity index showed that Ictocruz has better air quality than Tarqui-Guzho and La Luz. Significant differences were found in the Air Quality Index (AQI) by pollutant, with PM2.5 AQI being noteworthy. The study confirmed the reliability of the Atmospheric Purity Index for assessing air quality in urban environments, suggesting the effectiveness of lichens as indicators. These results underscore the importance of using bioindicators to monitor air quality continuously and systematically, along with the need for interdisciplinary strategies for effective environmental management in the city.