This study presents the spatial and temporal variability of water quality parameters in rivers of Macapá and Santana region, State of Amapá, Brazil, especially faecal coliforms (FC), being used as indicators. Laboratory and field experiments were conducted in four estuarine rivers. The experiment included five sampling locations and the research was conducted from September 1999 to September 2002. Samples were collected once a monthly. The results of analysis provided us useful information for sanitary and public health planning. In addiction, a socio-economic study of several critical areas in the watershed was carried out. The results showed high faecal coliform concentrations. The complexity of space-temporal variability of the water quality was affected by various factors, such as climatic conditions, tidal variation and human activities. This information can be used in forecasting environmental and public health risks.
Amazon; stuarine rivers; microbiologic pollution; monitoring; water quality
