| Autor: |
Bielmyer-Fraser GK; Jacksonville University, 2800 University Blvd N., Jacksonville, FL, 32211, USA. gbielmy@ju.edu., Waters MN; Auburn University, 201 Funchess Hall, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA., Duckworth CG; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Patel PP; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Webster BC; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Blocker A; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Crummey CH; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Duncan AN; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Nwokike SN; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Picariello CR; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Ragan JT; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Schumacher EL; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Tucker RL; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Tuttle EA; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA., Wiggins CR; Valdosta State University, 1500 N Patterson St., Valdosta, GA, 31698, USA. |
| Abstrakt: |
Urbanization, agriculture, and other land transformations can affect water quality, decrease species biodiversity, and increase metal and nutrient concentrations in aquatic systems. Metal pollution, in particular, is a reported consequence of elevated anthropogenic inputs, especially from urbanized areas. The objectives of this study were to quantify metal (Cu, Al, Cd, Ni, and Pb) concentrations in the waters and biota of four streams in South Georgia, USA, and relate metal concentrations to land use and abiotic and biotic stream processes. Additionally, macrophytes, invertebrates, and fish were identified to assess biodiversity at each site. Metal concentrations in the three trophic levels differed among sites and species, correlating to differences in land use surrounding the rivers. The highest metal concentrations (except Al) were found in the streams most impacted by urbanization and development. Al concentrations were highest in streams surrounded by land dominated by forested areas. Metal content in macrophytes reflected metal concentrations in the water and was at least three orders of magnitude higher than any other trophic level. Despite metal concentration differences, all four streams contained similar water quality and were healthy based on macroinvertebrate community structure. This study provides insight into the impact of urbanization and the fate and effects of metals in river ecosystems with varying degrees of anthropogenic impact. |
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