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An online real‐time biomonitor for contaminant surveillance in water supplies
Author(s) -
Mikol Yves B.,
Richardson William R.,
Van Der Schalie William H.,
Shedd Tommy R.,
Widder Mark W.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
journal ‐ american water works association
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.466
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1551-8833
pISSN - 0003-150X
DOI - 10.1002/j.1551-8833.2007.tb07873.x
Subject(s) - biomonitoring , environmental science , context (archaeology) , water quality , warning system , contamination , environmental monitoring , early warning system , risk analysis (engineering) , environmental engineering , environmental chemistry , business , computer science , ecology , geography , telecommunications , chemistry , archaeology , biology
Automated biomonitoring systems provide continuous, real‐time monitoring of changes in water quality and can rapidly identify toxicity associated with a wide range of chemical contaminants and increase public confidence in drinking water quality. Although widespread in Europe, biomonitor use is rare in the United States. Using case studies of a biomonitor that continuously monitors fish ventilatory patterns, this article illustrates how biomonitors can contribute to an early warning monitoring system for source and finished water protection. The case studies provide a context for a discussion of considerations important for biomonitor implementation, including toxicant responsiveness, event confirmation, implementation of biomonitors in a decision‐making process, and cost. Recommendations are also provided for biomonitor use at raw water intake and distribution systems.