MPI - Metal Pollution Index is being proposed with an aim improving the freshwater pollution control, monitoring and classification based on fish metal body burden. This is a simple mathematical model which enables presentation of Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn and Al fish liver concentration as a single value. After thorough studies of bioaccumulation, biomagnification and tissue distribution patterns, liver of Carassius auratus gibelio has been chosen as sentinel organ. Normal distribution and biological variation assessment is being achieved by using normalizers - reference values (liver concentrations of selected elements in fish from reference sites Vruje and Moharac micro water reservoirs, Serbia (Yugoslavia)). Selected representative sites have been evaluated according to new classification of freshwater ecosystem based on MPI values.

The paper presents results of the hydroecological investigations of the Vlasina river basin, Serbia (Yugoslavia). The researches were performed in May and September 1996, as a part an annual investigation cycle. Samples were collected from five localities on the Vlasina river, and on two spots on its main tributaries - the Gradska river and Luznica, just before entering into the Vlasina. Qualitative and quantitative data on composition of phyto- and zooplankton, periphytic and benthic communities together with data obtained from physico-chemical water examinations were analysed to assess water quality of examined water courses. The results of performed monitoring were compared with informations on the sources of pollution, as well as with the data on hydrology, geomorphology, demographic variations, and recent development of tourism and industry in the Region in order to assess environmental quality of aquatic ecosystem and to suggest the conservation strategy.