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Linking Stream Sediment Deposition and Aquatic Habitat Quality in Pearl Mussel Streams: Implications for Conservation
Author(s) -
Denic M.,
Geist J.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
river research and applications
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.679
H-Index - 94
eISSN - 1535-1467
pISSN - 1535-1459
DOI - 10.1002/rra.2794
Subject(s) - streams , habitat , sediment , deposition (geology) , environmental science , hydrology (agriculture) , fluvial , salmo , drainage basin , ecology , geology , fishery , structural basin , geography , biology , geomorphology , computer network , geotechnical engineering , cartography , computer science , fish <actinopterygii>
The introduction of fine sediments into streams is considered to have a major effect on habitat quality affecting the reproduction of sensitive species such as unionid mussels and salmonid fishes. To date, there is a lack of information on the magnitude and spatio‐temporal resolution of sediment introduction. This study aimed to quantify the spatio‐temporal deposition of fine sediments in headwater streams in relation to the status of Margaritifera margaritifera and Salmo trutta . Fine sediment deposition was linked to physicochemical conditions of the adjacent streambed. The mean observed deposition of fine sediments over the study period was 3.4 kg m −2 month −1 with a high spatio‐temporal variation ranging from <0.01 to 20.3 kg m −2 month −1 . Discharge had the strongest influence on deposition rates. Mean differences in redox potential between free‐flowing water and the interstitial zone were 90 mV. The spatio‐temporal variability of physicochemical parameters increased with degree of degradation. High‐quality reaches had more constant conditions. Our results indicate that monitoring of sediment quality and deposition in streams has to comprise several time points and study reaches, or should at least be conducted during periods with the most adverse habitat conditions, to allow valid assessments of habitat quality. In streams with increased fine sediment deposition, in‐stream restoration measures are insufficient for the enhancement of pearl mussel habitats as a result of rapid clogging of interstitial pores. Only integrative catchment management based on detailed habitat analysis can ensure sufficient habitat quality for species sensitive to siltation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.