Comparative Limnology and Biota of Mine Spoils Ponds in Colorado (Journal Version)

摘要

Physico-chemical and biotic parameters were investigated from June 1977 to May 1978 in coal strip-mine ponds in Colorado which differed in age and in the proportion of drainage derived from the mine. There were no discernible effects of mine drainage on temperature, dissolved oxygen, hardness, pH, acidity, alkalinity, calcium, iron, orthophosphate, or the organic content of the substrate. Total dissolved solids, nitrate, and sulfate values were higher in the spoils ponds than in the control pond. Net zooplankton abundance was lowest in the youngest spoils pond, but the standing crop of benthos exhibited a progressive decrease from the youngest spoils pond to the control pond.