ABSTRACT Historically, the reduction in water quality has been associated with changes in land use, especially changes in urbanization and expansion of agricultural frontiers. The objective of this study was to understand the characteristics of the diatomological community and the use and occupation of the soil around three reservoirs (Arara, Rio do Canto and Araçagi) and natural lagoon (Lagoa do Paó) (Northeast Brazil). Land use was determined using high spatial resolution satellite images. Abiotic variables of water and total phosphorus, organic matter and diatoms in surface sediments were analyzed. Abiotic variables and assemblages of diatoms were analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Four types of land use have been identified, associated... |