ABSTRACT
The Bustillos Lagoon is a very important water body for the Chihuahua, Mexico, but water pollution by different sources have been previously reported in this area. The aim of this study was to determine the main physicochemical parameters and the occurrence of As in the water of the Bustillos Lagoon. Randomly, 22 points were selected by GIS, and samples were collected in the area to evaluate water quality, which is used for crops irrigation. The spatial distribution was performed by was Co-Kriging available in ArcMap© 10.4 software, he physicochemical parameters were quantifying in situ and the arsenic (As) analysis was performed by ICP-MS. In general, the physiochemical parameters value were within acceptable levels according the Mexican Regulations for aquatic life. The concentrations of As found in the study area exceed the national and international values established by drinking water consumption regulations in the 22 points of Lagoon WHO (0.010 mg/L and Mexican Regulations; 0.025 mg/L and freshwater range; 0.15–0.45 μg/L). It is concluded that water of the Bustillos ecosystem represent a hazard for aquatic life and a possible risk exposure if the water is used for crops irrigation and any domestic uses.
