<![CDATA[This study aimed to analyze the structure of macrozoobenthos communities as bioindicators of water quality and to assess the ecological condition of the Meninting River through an ethnoecological approach involving local communities in West Lombok. The study was conducted from January to February 2026 using descriptive quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data analysis included the Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H’), Simpson dominance index (C), EPT richness, and the ratio of sensitive to tolerant organisms, while ethnoecological data were obtained through semi-structured interviews. The results showed that 10 macrozoobenthos species were identified with a total of 164 individuals. Chironomus sp. and Melanoides tuberculata had the highest abundance, each with 24 individuals, indicating the presence of organisms tolerant to habitat changes. The diversity index (H’) value of 2.25 indicated a moderate diversity level, while the Simpson dominance index (C) value of 0.11 indicated no dominant species within the community. The EPT groups identified consisted of Baetis sp., Perla sp., and Hydropsyche sp., with an EPT richness value of 3 taxa and a sensitive-to-tolerant organism ratio of 1.82 indicates that the waters have moderate quality (light pollution). Ethnoecological findings revealed that local communities utilized the river for domestic needs and irrigation and possessed local knowledge regarding changes in river conditions and conservation practices. Overall, the Meninting River has experienced anthropogenic pressure but still supports the presence of sensitive organisms. The integration of macrozoobenthos bioindicators and ethnoecological approaches provides a comprehensive perspective for sustainable river ecosystem management.]]>
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