Macroinvertebrates and diatoms as indicators of acidification in forest spring brooks in a region of eastern Germany (Leipzig-Halle-Bitterfeld) highly impacted by industrial activities
1998; International Association of Theoretical and Applied Limnology; Volume: 143; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1127/archiv-hydrobiol/143/1998/435
ISSN2363-7110
Autores Tópico(s)Marine Biology and Ecology Research
ResumoBenthic macroinvertebrates and epilithic diatoms were surveyed in six forest spring brooks of Saxonia-Anhalt and Saxonia (eastern Germany). The aquatic communities changed from acid-sensitive to acid-tolerant along a gradient of acidity within the sampling area. The acidity states of the brooks were assessed by indicator species and pH values measured weekly. Waters close to industrial emitters showed lower acidity states than those farther from them. The different assessment methods used tended to yield corresponding results. In some cases, however, the results were not congruent, particularly when macroinvertebrates were used. Possible modifications of acidity-indication evaluation systems are discussed which may lead to improved assessments.
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