Are diatom-based biotic indices developed in eutrophic, organically enriched waters reliable monitoring metrics in clean waters?

摘要

The application of diatom indices developed for organically enriched and eutrophic waters in oligotrophic and relatively pristine streams in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe was investigated based on data collected in May-August 2007. Better suitability of diatom indices in investigating the quality of eutrophic, organically enriched waters compared to oligotrophic waters is demonstrated. More robust data sets on taxonomy and autecology of a great number of diatom species are required to make the indices more powerful tools in monitoring water quality and ecological integrity of streams in the region. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.