Pollution impact on freshwater communities in the border region between Russia and Norway. Baseline study 1990-1992

摘要

The aim of this baseline study carried out between 1990 and 1992, was to assess the ecological state of freshwater communities in Russian and Norwegian territories. Water chemistry, phytoplankton, aquatic mosses, zoo plankton, zoo benthos and fish were sampled in different lakes and streams in border areas. Severe pollution impacts upon freshwater communities has been recorded near factories in Nikel and Zapolyarny. Moderate adverse impact on the Norwegian side, and one areas at longer distances from the factories on the Russian side, are related to these pollution sources. Heavy metal accumulation, pathological anomalies in fish and a low diversity of invertebrates were observed. Indications of acidification impact were only recorded within restricted areas at highest altitudes in the Jarfjord region. This study provides a satisfactory background for further evaluation of ecological changes following the planned reconstruction of air purification systems at the factories. A monitoring program restricted to annual investigations in six localities in the border areas is recommended. 76 refs., 15 figs., 5 tabs. (ERA citation 19:026033)