Habitat as a tool for identifying the causes of mass fish deaths

The results of a hydrochemical analysis conducted to determine the causes of mass death of fish are presented. The key indicators of water quality, including concentrations of dissolved oxygen, ammonium nitrogen, nitrates, phosphates, as well as pH and temperature levels, are considered. These parameters were chosen as the indicators most sensitive to changes in the aquatic environment and able to reflect the overall state of the ecosystem. Special attention is paid to the seasonal dynamics of changes in hydrochemical parameters. The analysis revealed a deviation of a number of parameters from the maximum permissible norms, which indicates possible anthropogenic pollution of water bodies. The data obtained make it possible to establish a link between changes in the hydrochemical composition of water and observed fish deaths, which can serve as a basis for developing measures to prevent similar environmental incidents in the future. Such measures may include increased control over discharge sources, the introduction of wastewater treatment programs, and regular monitoring of the condition of reservoirs.