Assessment of surface and groundwater quality in the Ctalamochita River basin, Argentina: hydrogeochemical characteristics and exploratory data analysis

Abstract

Freshwater and groundwater are important resources for the drinking water supporting agricultural and livestock activities in the Córdoba province, Argentina. The aim of this study was to assess the physicochemical and microbiological quality of surface water (n = 14) and groundwater (n = 17) sites in the middle-lower basin of the Ctalamochita River (Córdoba, Argentina) for human and animal consumption. A total of 18 physicochemical and five microbiological parameters were evaluated to determine the hydrogeological characteristics of both water resources and their suitability for human and animal consumption using the Water Quality Index (WQI). The results indicated that Na+ and HCO3− were the dominant cation and anion, respectively, in both water resources. Physicochemical and microbiological parameters values were compared with national and international guidelines. The WQI showed that groundwater samples exhibited poorer quality when compared to surface waters for human consumption, primarily due to elevated concentrations of major ions and the presence of total coliforms and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Meanwhile, the WQI for animal consumption indicated that both surface and groundwater samples were suitable for this purpose. The Piper diagram showed that most of the surface water samples were classified as Na+–Cl−–HCO3−, while groundwater samples were classified as Na+–HCO3−. This classification highlights the hydrogeochemical differences between the two water resources. The Gibbs diagram indicates that the chemical composition of both surface and groundwater sources is primarily controlled by processes of rock-water interaction and evaporation. The findings of this study will facilitate the development of a proactive plan to safeguard and sustain water resources in the middle-lower basin of the Ctalamochita River. This can be achieved through the implementation of preventive strategies and the introduction of innovative policies.