The researchers studied the benthic macroinvertebrate fauna and water quality of Balaban Lake in Izmir. They found 25 different species, including worms, snails, crustaceans, and insects. The lake's sampling stations were grouped based on the types of creatures found there. Certain species were linked to specific water quality factors like turbidity, electrical conductivity, and nutrient levels. This study is the first to document the benthic fauna of Balaban Lake.