Water quality effects on dragonfly and damselfly nymph communities: A comparison of urban and natural ponds

Abstract

Cities are increasingly using constructed ponds to mitigate flooding and downstream water pollution from urban runoff. As a result, these stormwater ponds can have poor water quality, yet they can also attract wildlife. In this study, the effects of water quality on dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata) were determined in stormwater ponds (n = 41) and natural reference ponds (n = 10) of similar size across the National Capital Region of Canada. A total of 38 chemical/physical water quality variables along with Odonata nymph abundance and taxonomic composition were sampled at each pond. Chloride concentrations exceeded the guideline for the protection of aquatic life at over two-thirds of the stormwater ponds. Among all the metals tested, only Cu exceeded guidelines at many stormwater ponds. Both dragonfly and damselfly nymphs were on average less abundant in the stormwater ponds in comparison to the natural ponds. Ponds with high concentrations of chloride and metals typically had lower dragonfly abundance. Dragonfly community structure was significantly influenced by high chloride (or conductivity), which likely originates from winter road salting. In contrast, damselfly community structure in the stormwater ponds was similar to that found in natural ponds, with nutrients and metals explaining a small percent of variation in community structure. A water quality index developed to assess habitats for the protection of aquatic life did not significantly explain Odonata abundance or measures of diversity and may not be suitable in assessing pond habitat quality. To improve pond habitats within cities, efforts should be directed at reducing the amount of impervious surface and road salt usage within catchment basins.