An analysis of South Carolina fish kills in relation to human population density and measures of water quality

摘要

This correlational analysis attempts to describe the relationships between fish kill reports, measures of water quality, biological indicators, atmospheric variations, agricultural activities, and human population variables within the state of South Carolina. Generally, agricultural activities are negatively correlated with the frequency of fish kill events. Biochemical oxygen demand, pH, and conductivity are correlated with both the frequency of fish kills and human population variables. Similarly, conductivity, pH, and decreases of dissolved oxygen are correlated with the frequency of fish kills and temperature changes. No correlation is observed between anthropogenic nutrient disruptions and fish kill incidents. However, when nitrogen and phosphorous levels are compared to reference standards, it is evident that the failure to correlate these variables with fish kills is likely related to the wide distribution of eutrophic conditions. Property managers in the area are advised to consult with available resources to mitigate or prevent these conditions.