Variation in macroinvertebrate biotic index, phosphate, and habitat quality across streams in the Red Cedar River watershed

Abstract

Stream macroinvertebrate species have varying levels of tolerance forpoor water quality and habitat conditions (Hilsenhoff 1977). Macroinvertebrate community data can be used to calculate a biotic indexthat serves as a proxy measure for stream health. Healthier streams tendto have a greater array of macroinvertebrate species representing a rangeof tolerance to pollution (University of Wisconsin 2015). Trout stream restoration aims to rebuild and enhance the habitat of troutpopulations, create better conditions for fishing, make streams more floodresistance, improve water quality, and enhance climate resilience(Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources 2019). Stream restorations need to be assessed for long-term success todetermine if the restoration achieved its goals or more restoration effortsare needed.