Análisis de la influencia de heliconia stricta en la eliminación de materia orgánica y nitrógeno de aguas residuales domésticas utilizando humedales construidos

Abstract

Constructed wetlands allow the treatment of domestic wastewater (DWW) using ornamental plant species. The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of Heliconia stricta in the treatment of DWW in constructed wetlands. The methodology was based on an experimental model consisting of two wetlands constructed of vertical and horizontal subsurface flow (VSSF – HSSF, respectively) in series, fed with synthetic DWW and planted with individuals of the species Heliconia stricta. The system was monitored for 49 days by parameters such as: Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), ammonium (NH4)+, nitrate (NO3)- nitrite (NO2)- and total phosphorus (PT). In parallel, the growth of Heliconia stricta was evaluated weekly using allometric measurements. The results showed that the elimination of organic matter and nutrients was higher in the VSSF than in the HFSSH. The vegetative analysis in the wetlands showed greater development of the individuals in the HSSF with average values of 50 individuals / m2 (relative abundance), 0,40 mm (apical growth) and 0,25 mm (basal growth). Finally, the correlation analysis between the elimination of pollutants and the growth of Heliconia stricta in HFSSH determined that its growth was significantly affected by the COD; whereas, in the HFSSV no significant relationship was found.