The application of a Biopollution Index in German Baltic estuarine and lagoon waters
In: Management of Biological Invasions. Regional Euro-Asian Biological Invasions Centre (REABIC): Helsinki. e-ISSN 1989-8649, more
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| Keywords |
Marine/Coastal; Brackish water; Fresh water |
| Authors | | Top |
- Wittfoth, A.K.J.
- Zettler, M.L., more
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| Abstract |
This paper assesses the status of three German Baltic estuarine and lagoon waters with respect to invasive species (macrozoobenthos) and their impact. A Biological Pollution Index was applied and evaluated. Overall 130 macrozoobenthic species were identified, 17 of which were aquatic alien species. The Szczecin Lagoon had the highest number of invasive species (13). Most species were of Pontocaspian origin; inland waterways are likely to play a significant role in their migration. According to the Biological Pollution Index Level (BPL) this lagoon was ‘moderately influenced’ by invasive species. Warnow Estuary had 11 invasive species; their origin noted generally from North-America, suggesting shipping traffic as the major distribution vector; invasive species had the same BPL as in the Szczecin Lagoon. In the Darß Zingst Bodden Chain only 6 invasive species were observed, having the highest relative abundance (9-71%). Furthermore, this area had the highest BPL of all three areas, i.e. a strong negative impact. The BPL required a lot of data (including historical) and some ratings were subjective and comparisons with other areas assessed were difficult and often impossible. Due to these limitations, it is suggested that the BPL should only be used with restrictions as a universal assessment tool for invasive species in the estuarine and lagoon waters of the Baltic Sea. |
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