On the initiative of the Institute of Natural Sciences and the Department of Biology, Professor Erdogan Cicek, a specialist in biological sciences from Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University, held a scientific seminar titled “Biotic Integrity Index and a Sample: Eurasian Fish Index.”
The purpose of the event was to explain the scientific principles of the Biotic Integrity Index (BII), which is used to assess the condition of aquatic ecosystems, and to analyze its application using the Eurasian Fish Index (EFI) as an example.
During the seminar, Professor Cicek provided a detailed explanation of the Eurasian Fish Index, developed specifically for Eurasian conditions. This index evaluates the quality of water bodies based on analyses of fish communities, including species diversity, migratory capabilities, ecological requirements, and sensitivity to pollution. It was emphasized that the EFI not only allows for an objective assessment of the state of natural water resources but also serves as a scientific tool for decision-making in their conservation and restoration.
The seminar was attended by faculty members of the Institute of Natural Sciences and students of the Department of Biology, who actively asked questions and discussed the practical significance of using biotic indices in ecological research.
Overall, the Biotic Integrity Index and its Eurasian version, the Eurasian Fish Index, are recognized as reliable and scientifically sound methods for assessing the ecological sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. They hold significant practical value for monitoring water quality and planning conservation measures.
During the seminar, participants were introduced to modern analytical methods, gained access to new research data, and learned from international scientific experience. The relevance of the topic generated considerable interest among future biologists, motivating them to pursue further research in the evaluation and conservation of aquatic ecosystems.
