ISSN:
1573-2932
Keywords:
macroinvertebrates
;
critical loads
;
acid exceedence
;
acidification index
;
ordination
;
Scotland
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
Notes:
Abstract The Critical Load concept provides a method for the assessment of an ecosystem's sensitivity to acidification. This paper examines how variations in critical loads for freshwaters are reflected by the diversity and abundance of macroinvertebrates. The results indicate that acidified sites, those with the lowest critical loads, have significantly fewer species than less sensitive sites. The data are discussed in terms of ordination analysis relating catchment attributes to critical loads and macroinvertebrate status. It is concluded that although critical loads provides a good predictor for biotic status it is not as sensitive as parameters such as pH or alkalinity.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01186203
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