The use of epilithic and epiphytic diatoms as indicators of organic pollution in the Cheboygan River, Cheboygan County, Michigan.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential use of diatoms as biological monitors of environmental quality in aquatic systems. Epilithic and epiphytic diatoms were sampled at 14 sites within the Cheboygan River catchment area. These samples were cleaned using standard techniques and mounted on slides, and 300 diatoms were identified to species and counted for each slide. We found that monitoring diatom assemblages provided a more sensitive assessment of environmental quality than traditional water chemistry measurements. We also found more diverse diatom assemblages in wetland areas and locations with more well-lighted surface area.