Phosphates Phosphorous in the water primarily comes from human and animal faeces runoff from rural and urban areas. This parameter indicates the nutrient status and consequent health of the waterbody. High levels may stimulate algal blooms, large swings in DO and imbalances in aquatic communities. Temperature Indicates the approximate temperature of the water which varies with depth season and time of day. Many of the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of a stream are directly affected by this parameter.
Temperature is measured with a probe or thermometer.
Biological Survey Abundance and diversity of aquatic macroinvertebrate communities serves as a reliable indicator of stream health. Nets or artificial substrates are used to collect aquatic macroinvertebrates, which are identified and compared with records from other sites. Measurements of these indicators can be used to determine, and monitor changes in, water quality, and determine whether the quality of the water is suitable for the health of the natural environment and the uses for which the water is required. The design of water quality monitoring programs is a complex and specialised field. The range of indicators that can be measured is wide and other indicators may be adopted in the future.