While listed as a threatened species in Texas, the blue sucker is common in certain parts of the Colorado River below Austin. It can grow to a length of about 3 feet and feeds on insects inhabiting the river bottom. The alluvium holds water, making it an aquifer. When the river is high, it contributes to the aquifer. When the river is down, it gets water from the aquifer.
Sulfates come from natural salt deposits with various minerals.
Chlorides can come from natural sources, but are also an indicator of brine water contamination from leaking and abandoned oil wells and disposal pits. When chlorides combine with sodium, it forms an alkali that can kill crops. Last updated June 21, 2000.