The processes that promote changes in limnological variables are large and require studies that consider the peculiarities of the basins of contribution, as well as the use and coverage of their areas. This article aimed to compare the dynamics of limnological parameters of Dr. Joao Penido reservoir in Juiz de Fora - State of Minas Gerais in different rainfall regimes, as well as understanding the active mechanisms in the variation of the same ones. Student's t-test has revealed the occurrence of significant seasonal variation for the parameters: color, turbidity, iron, electrical conductivity and biochemical oxygen demand. Through factor analysis/principal components analysis variable pH was excluded for not contributing to the variance of all data, highlighting among the studied variables, which contributed more to influence water quality. The first four components were used which explained 71% of the total variance of the data, indicating the runoff as a determinant of the variables of the first and second components; the organic contribution, not associated with the precipitation, as suggestive of the variables of the third component; and intrinsic functional dynamics of the aquatic environment as indicative of the fourth component.
water resources; hydrographic basin; seasonality; principal component analysis
