Implications on distribution and abundance of benthic macroinvertebrates in the Maple River based on water quality and habitat type.

Abstract

Macroinvertebrate communities are often diverse and variable in richness and abundance depending on water quality in aquatic ecosystems. Measures of water quality (e.g. alkalinity, pH, conductivity, salinity, macronutrient content) and habitat forms can vary in different locations and affect the abundance of macroinvertebrates there. Riffles (flowing water) and pools (standing water) form in streams and provide different habitats for macroinvertebrates. To test the effects water quality and habitat have on macroinvertebrate richness and abundance, three sites along the Maple River in Pellston, MI were sampled. In respect to water quality, we observed large differences between the East and West Branch locations, mainly involving higher levels of nitrate, total nitrogen, and conductivity from the West Branch located downstream from the Pellston Airport and multiple farming areas. Along with testing water quality at each site, macroinvertebrates distribution and diversity was analyzed to show a decrease in diversity among the West Branch as compared to the East Branch. Our findings suggest that pollution from anthropogenic sources impacts water quality of nearby streams and rivers, resulting in the decrease of macroinvertebrate diversity.