Static Coal Storage - Biological Effects on the Aquatic Environment

Abstract

Benthic samples taken from four regions of the ORBA Coal dock facility indicated that the aquatic environment was moderately polluted as indicated by the kinds of benthic species present and by the diversity index value. An efficient rearing technique for benthic organisms results in low mortality. The life cycle from hatching to pupal formation in the Chironomus sp. Takes 21.9 days at 20.5°C. Stress factors and swimming behavior are also discussed. Heavy metal concentrations in Helobdella stagnalis were found at all sites during the collecting period. An inventory of benthic organisms pre­ sent in six regions of the St. Louis River during the spring, summer and fall of 1975 is included.