Linking biological and physicochemical water quality

Bernatowicz, W; Weiss, A; Matschullat, J

HERO ID

857300

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2009

Language

English

PMID

19067209

HERO ID 857300
In Press No
Year 2009
Title Linking biological and physicochemical water quality
Authors Bernatowicz, W; Weiss, A; Matschullat, J
Journal Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
Volume 159
Issue 1-4
Page Numbers 311-330
Abstract To define water quality, the European Water Framework Directive (WFD) demands complex assessments through physicochemical, biological, and hydromorphological controls of water bodies. Since the biological assessment became the central focus with hydrochemistry playing a supporting role, an evaluation of the interrelationships within this approach deems necessary. This work identified and tested these relationships to help improve the quality and efficiency of related efforts. Data from the 384 km(2) Weisseritz catchment (eastern Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany and northern Bohemia, Czech Republic) were used as a representative example for central European streams in mountainous areas. The data cover the time frame 1992 to 2003. To implement WFD demands, the analysis was based on accepted German methods and classifications, WFD quality standards, and novel German methods for the biological status assessment. Selected chemical parameters were compared with different versions of the German Saprobic Index, based on macroinvertebrate indicator taxa. Relevant dependencies applicable for integrated stream assessment were statistically tested. Correlation analysis showed significant relationships. The highest scores were found for nutrients (NO(2)(-), N(inorg), and total N), salinity (Cl(-), SO(4)(2-), conductivity), and microelements (K(+), Na(+), Ca(2+), Mg(2+)). The Saprobic Index used in the Integrated Assessment System for the Ecological Quality of Streams and Rivers throughout Europe using Benthic Macro-invertebrates program seems to be the most sensitive indicator to correlate with chemical parameters.
Doi 10.1007/s10661-008-0631-9
Pmid 19067209
Wosid WOS:000271530400024
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Comments Source: Web of Science WOS:000271530400024Scopus URL: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-70450277570&doi=10.1007%2fs10661-008-0631-9&partnerID=40&md5=bc23595db53da99a54cc170170125e73
Is Public Yes
Language Text English
Keyword Lotic waters; Chemical and ecological status; Benthic macroinvertebrates; Weisseritz river basin; WFD; Rivers
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