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Aquatic Ecosystem Characterizations by Biotic Indices
Author(s) -
Guhl Walter
Publication year - 1987
Publication title -
internationale revue der gesamten hydrobiologie und hydrographie
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.524
H-Index - 52
eISSN - 1522-2632
pISSN - 0020-9309
DOI - 10.1002/iroh.19870720404
Subject(s) - biotic index , index (typography) , diversity index , ecosystem , ecology , biotic component , environmental science , water quality , computer science , biology , abiotic component , species richness , world wide web
The suitability of various biotic parameters for the quality characterization of bodies of water was assessed with the aid of three real world examples which were furthermore characterized physically and chemically. A number of biotic indices such as the Wright and Tidd index and the Chandler biotic score proved unsuitable since they take only parts of the biocenoses into account. All diversity indices, e.g., the Simpson and the Shannon index, proved inadequate as well since elements essential for the description of a biocenosis are lacking. The saprobity index proved fully useful and correct for the biological characterization of bodies of water. Similarity indices such as the Sørenson index may furnish valuable additional information.