MPhil-thesis-2002-Shaw.pdf (6.82 MB)
The influence of hydraulics on benthic macroinvertebrates in the confluence of Wood Brook and Burleigh Brook, Loughborough, UK.
thesis
posted on 2012-12-05, 12:49 authored by Catherine A. ShawSeveral near-bed hydraulic variables were monitored to assess the spatial and
temporal variability of near-bed hydraulic habitat conditions in the confluence of
Wood Brook and Burleigh Brook, Loughborough, UK. Surber samples were
collected to assess the spatial and temporal responses of benthic macroinvertebrate
communities inhabiting the confluence to hydraulic habitat variability.
It was determined that near-bed downstream velocity and near-bed vertical velocity
were the most important factors controlling spatial differences in benthic habitat
conditions in the confluence. The recovery zone downstream of the confluence was
found to be the most hydraulically distinct habitat. Temporally, the hydraulic
conditions in the confluence remained relatively stable over the range of stages
monitored.
The recovery zone exhibited the most diverse benthic macroinvertebrate community
in the confluence. Abundances of Gammarus pulex, Erpobdella octoculata and
Ceratopogonidae were significantly higher in the recovery zone than in any other
hydraulic zone of the confluence. Few significant temporal variations in benthic
macroinvertebrate community structures were observed. Therefore, there is some
evidence to suggest that hydraulic habitat conditions influence the community
structure and distribution of macroinvertebrates in the confluence of Wood Brook and
Burleigh Brook.
History
School
- Social Sciences
Department
- Geography and Environment
Publisher
© Catherine ShawPublication date
2002Notes
A Master's Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Master of Philosophy of Loughborough University.Language
- en