Collected Surface Water Research Articles

Effects of Organic Pollutants on the Bacterioplankton Community in Hangzhou Bay

Hangzhou Bay suffers from intensive anthropogenic disturbances and a huge amount of terrestrial inputs, and thus has become one of the most seriously contaminated coastal zones in China. There is evidence that microbes play a dominant role in pollutant biodegradation and serve as biomarkers for pollution levels. However, it remains unclear how the bacterioplankton communities respond to organic contaminants. To fill this knowledge gap, we collected surface water samples (0.5 m below the surface layer) from 13 sites across Hangzhou Bay and 8 control sites across its adjacent offshore areas. Using Illumina sequencing based on analysis of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene, we explored the effects of increasing organic pollution levels on the bacterioplankton community compositions (BCCs). The results revealed that the organic pollution level (A) in Hangzhou Bay (13.2±1.6) was significantly (P<0.001) higher than in the control zone (5.4±3.0). The distribution and diversity of bacterioplankton communities were significantly distinct between the two zones. The dominant bacterioplankton lineages in Hangzhou Bay were γ-Proteobacteria (24.4%±5.5%), α-Proteobacteria (16.5%±7.7%), and Planctomycetes (13.9%±8.6%), whereas those in the adjacent zones were Cyanobacteria (20.1%±7.5%), Bacteroidetes (18.4%±1.5%), Actinobacteria (17.5%±4.2%), γ-Proteobacteria (16.6%±1.2%), and α-Proteobacteria (14.3%±1.7%). Multivariate regression tree (MRT) analysis showed that the bacterioplankton community diversity was primarily affected by suspended particulates (SP), nitrite, oil, and organic pollutants, which respectively explained 22.0%, 6.5%, 6.0%, and 5.5% of the variance in diversity. Redundancy analysis (RDA) illustrated that the bacterioplankton community distribution was controlled by organic pollutants, COD, Chla, TN, nitrate, and salinity, which cumulatively governed 71.0% of the variation in BCCs. Organic pollutants alone controlled 6.5% variance, which was higher than any other single factor. Additionally, 35 sensitive species were identified via the indicator value method and their relative abundances were significantly associated (P<0.05 in each case) with the organic pollution level, thereby indicating their potential for evaluating coastal pollution. Collectively, our work demonstrates that BCCs are sensitive to coastal pollution and provides biomarkers for elevated pollution levels.

A qualitative study of community perception and acceptance of biological larviciding for malaria mosquito control in rural Burkina Faso

BackgroundVector and malaria parasite’s rising resistance against pyrethroid-impregnated bed nets and antimalarial drugs highlight the need for additional control measures. Larviciding against malaria vectors is experiencing a renaissance with the availability of environmentally friendly and target species-specific larvicides. In this study, we analyse the perception and acceptability of spraying surface water collections with the biological larvicide Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis in a single health district in Burkina Faso.MethodsA total of 12 focus group discussions and 12 key informant interviews were performed in 10 rural villages provided with coverage of various larvicide treatments (all breeding sites treated, the most productive breeding sites treated, and untreated control).ResultsRespondents’ knowledge about the major risk factors for malaria transmission was generally good. Most interviewees stated they performed personal protective measures against vector mosquitoes including the use of bed nets and sometimes mosquito coils and traditional repellents. The acceptance of larviciding in and around the villages was high and the majority of respondents reported a relief in mosquito nuisance and malarial episodes. There was high interest in the project and demand for future continuation.ConclusionThis study showed that larviciding interventions received positive resonance from the population. People showed a willingness to be involved and financially support the program. The positive environment with high acceptance for larviciding programs would facilitate routine implementation. An essential factor for the future success of such programs would be inclusion in regional or national malaria control guidelines.

INTEGRATED EVALUATION MODEL FOR SURFACE WATER QUALITY A CASE STUDY IN HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM

The quality of water is a measure of a number of characteristics that impact on its condition. Parameters affecting the water quality are classified as having chemical, physical, biological and radiation characteristics. However there is uncertainty as to whether or not a water sample meets set standards in quality if two or more parameters need to be considered. Therefore, this study is to develop an effective evaluation model, adopting fuzzy logic, to assess the quality of water. Using a case study in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, a model has been developed and applied the collected surface water monitoring data in 2015. The results obtained from this model are then compared to the results gained from Vietnam national water quality index established in 2011.

Spatial and temporal dynamics of pathogenic Leptospira in surface waters from the urban slum environment

Leptospirosis has emerged as an important urban health problem as slum settlements have expanded worldwide. Yet the dynamics of the environmentally transmitted Leptospira pathogen has not been well characterized in these settings. We used a stratified dense sampling scheme to study the dynamics of Leptospira abundance in surface waters from a Brazilian urban slum community. We collected surface water samples during the dry, intermediate and rainy seasons within a seven-month period and quantified pathogenic Leptospira by quantitative PCR (qPCR). We used logistic and linear mixed models to identify factors that explained variation for the presence and concentration of Leptospira DNA. Among 335 sewage and 250 standing water samples, Leptospira DNA were detected in 36% and 34%, respectively. Among the 236 samples with positive results geometric mean Leptospira concentrations were 152 GEq/mL. The probability of finding Leptospira DNA was higher in sewage samples collected during the rainy season when increased leptospirosis incidence occurred, than during the dry season (47.2% vs 12.5%, respectively, p = 0.0002). There was a marked spatial and temporal heterogeneity in Leptospira DNA distribution, for which type of water, elevation, and time of day that samples were collected, in addition to season, were significant predictors. Together, these findings indicate that Leptospira are ubiquitous in the slum environment and that the water-related risk to which inhabitants are exposed is low. Seasonal increases in Leptospira presence may explain the timing of leptospirosis outbreaks. Effective prevention will need to consider the spatial and temporal dynamics of pathogenic Leptospira in surface waters to reduce the burden of the disease.

EVALUASI PENERAPAN AKUNTANSI PAJAK AIR PERMUKAAN PADA PERUSAHAAN DAERAH AIR MINUM KABUPATEN MINAHASA UTARA

Surface water tax is one of the local taxes levied by the provincial government as one of the sources of local revenue. Surface water taxes are a tax on the collection and/or utilization of surface water. The objective of this research is to know the use of surface water tax accounting whether the use of surface water tax has been in accordance with applicable laws, tax laws and local regulations. The research was conducted at the Regional Water Supply Company (PDAM) of North Minahasa Regency which is located at Worang By Pass Street Number 1, District Airmadidi. The method used in this research is comparative descriptive method. The results show that the PDAM of North Minahasa Regency calculated and paid a relatively small surface water tax for 2014, 2015 and 2016.Keywords : tax, surface water, evaluation

Lykilþættir í innleiðingu blágrænna ofanvatnslausna á Íslandi

Existing urban drainage structures that collect stormwater in underground piping networks face increased pressure with urban densification and increased rainfall intensity with global warming. Urban flooding may become more frequent in the future posing economic, environmental and health risks. Sustainable Drainage Solutions (SuDS) are increasingly being considered as a natural and economical approach to surface water management. Ponds, vegetated swales, rain gardens and green roofs slow down the surface water flow and break down pollutants stemming from traffic, asphalt wear and roof materials. SuDS has been designed for one neighbourhood in Iceland, Urriðaholt. The Icelandic Planning Act and National Planning Strategy have set the base for the implementation of SuDS. Iceland, however, lacks a comprehensive strategy to obtain the benefits of SuDS. This article presents the key success factors for implementing SuDS in Iceland, based on a review of Sweden's and England ́s decadal experience, and current legal, planning, knowledge and data environment in Iceland. Firstly, it is important to clarify the strategic goals of urban runoff management in governmental policy documents. Secondly, the implementation of SuDS needs to be intertwined with the planning process both in municipal and detailed planning phases. A collaborative effort must be undertaken between sewer specialists, planners and other professionals to develop novel surface water collection approaches with respect to local conditions. Collaboration, roles and responsibilities must be clear and identified throughout the SuDS life cycle, from strategy, planning and design, to construction, operation and maintenance. More interdisciplinary research needs to be conducted with regards to SuDS, and communicated to local stakeholders to improve their general knowledge on SuDS.

Pathology of Rural Guidance Projects on Collection and Disposal of Surface Water

One of the strategies developed in the first decade after the Islamic Revolution of Iran with the aim of achieving development in rural areas, is the rural guidance of surface water plan. The project has faced many challenges in the process of preparation and implementation. One of these challenges, is unfavorable changes in texture due to environmental conditions involved in disposal of surface water and vulnerability of the villages against floods. Disposal of surface water in rural areas is done in order to avoid threat of floods. Unfavorable conditions in rural pathways and excessive land use change, have negative impact on hydrology of rural areas. In addition, considering the fact that population in rural areas is limited, the need to build networks for collecting surface water is overshadowed by the very high per capita cost. Therefore, the right choice regarding guidance of surface water in rural areas is necessary for sustainable development, and also to create infrastructure in rural areas. The purpose of this research, is to evaluate rural water guidance projects in management and disposal of surface water. This research is qualitative and practical in nature. In this regard, in order to provide a clear picture of the shortcomings of the rural guidance plan for the disposal of surface water, basic theory and MAX QDA software are used. Based on the findings, the shortcomings of the rural guidance plan for disposal of surface water can be defined in three aspects of definition (description of services), management and execution. According to the interviews that were conducted, the executive problems are mainly caused by mismanagement, inappropriate approaches (description of services), lack of studies on disposal systems of surface water in rural areas and lack of attention to the facilitation and participation of rural people in the process. Therefore, in order to fix the problems ahead, there must be a reconsideration in management approaches and description of services. Also adoption of participatory management practices is essential in this regard.

Surveys of potato-growing areas and surface water in Lebanon for potato brown and ring rot pathogens.

Field surveys were carried out over three growing seasons (2013–2015), in the main potato growing areas of Lebanon, to assess the occurrence of potato brown rot caused by Ralstonia solanacearum and potato ring rot caused by Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus . A total of 232 potato samples were collected from Bekaa valley and 145 samples from Akkar plain, which are the largest Lebanese areas cropped with potatoes. Composite samples of 200 potato tubers were randomly collected from each field, following procedures laid down in EU legislation. Twelve potato demonstration fields were established in Akkar plain and designed for potato export to European markets: these were also surveyed using the same strategy. Furthermore, a network of 40 sampling sites in Bekaa and 19 sites in Akkar was established to collect surface water. GPS coordinates of potato fields and water sampling sites were recorded to map specific sampling points using Geographic Information System. All samples gave negative results for R. solanacearum and C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus in potatoes and R. solanacearum in water, as indicated using the official EU methods for detection and diagnosis for these pathogens. A monitoring system for R. solanacearum and C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis has been set up in Lebanon. This will increase the phytosanitary quality of potatoes and provide access to broader international markets.

Evaluation of some physicochemical parameters and benthic macroinvertebrates of Ikere Gorge Reservoir in Oyo State, Nigeria

The physico-chemical parameters and benthic macroinvertebrates of Ikere Gorge Reservoir were studied to assess the impact of anthropogenic activities on this man-made lake by collecting surface water and benthic samples. Physico-chemical parameters were within the allowable limits of USEPA for fresh water bodies apart from conductivity (0.055 ± 0.002μS/cm) which was below standard. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in the mean values of DO, BOD, TDS, transparency, nitrate and sulphate between the sampling stations. A total of six genera (Chironomus, Melanoides, Cloeon, Bulinus, Bellamya and Hirudo) of benthic macro-invertebrates belonging to six orders (Diptera, Pelecypoda, Ephemeroptera, Heterobranchia, Caenogastropoa and Hirudinida) were recorded in the reservoir during the study. Pollution tolerant species including Melanoides tuberculata and Chironomus sp. dominated the benthic macroinvertebrates with a total number and percentage abundance of 674(56.88%) and 435(36.71%), respectively. Ikere Gorge Reservoir is relatively under stress due to dominance of indicators of pollution. Keywords : Anthropogenic activities, Bioindicator, Ikere Gorge Reservoir, Melanoides tuberculata, Water quality.

Salting the Earth: The Environmental Impact of Oil and Gas Wastewater Spills.

Salting the Earth: The Environmental Impact of Oil and Gas Wastewater Spills.

Reprint of Ecological health status of the Lagos wetland ecosystems: Implications for coastal risk reduction

Lagos, a major urban agglomeration in the world is characterized by wetlands and basin for upstream rivers such as Ogun, Oshun and Yewa Rivers. Ongoing environmental pressures exerted by large-scale land reclamation for residential quarters, refuse and sewage dumping, and other uses, however, are suspected to have had a substantial impact on ecological health of the Lagos wetland ecosystems over the last few decades. To determine the impact of these pressures, we examined spatial changes in three wetlands areas- Badore/Langbasa (BL), Festac/Iba/Ijegun (FI) and Ologe/Otto-Awori (OO) through field sample collection and analyses of surface water, sediments, air-water interface gas fluxes and vegetations. Surface water conductivity, total suspended solids (TSS), alkalinity, chloride, biological oxygen demand (BOD), nitrate, phosphate and heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Fe, Na, Mn, Pb, Cd, K and Ni) exhibited relative spatial stability while other water quality parameters varied significantly (P < 0.05) across the wetland areas. Also, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) contributed to most of the total dissolved solids (TDS) since only DIC correlated significantly with TDS (r = 0.889; P = 0.05, n = 12) and TS (r = 0.891; P = 0.05, n = 12), suggesting a strong capacity for carbon sequestration and carbon sink across the wetland areas. None of the encountered vegetation species are in the vulnerable category of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). There are indications of steady rise in greenhouse gas levels in Lagos since air CO2 value at BL have reached global threshold of 400 ppm with OO and FI closely approaching. We conclude that the Lagos wetland ecosystems, especially OO and FI still have some semblance of natural habitat. However, further destruction and unwise use of the resources could cause damage to physical, chemical, geological and biological processes in nature, which could result to grave socio-economic and cultural consequences to the local communities whose livelihood and lifestyle depend on these valued wetlands.

Ecological health status of the Lagos wetland ecosystems: Implications for coastal risk reduction

Lagos, a major urban agglomeration in the world is characterized by wetlands and basin for upstream rivers such as Ogun, Oshun and Yewa Rivers. Ongoing environmental pressures exerted by large-scale land reclamation for residential quarters, refuse and sewage dumping, and other uses, however, are suspected to have had a substantial impact on ecological health of the Lagos wetland ecosystems over the last few decades. To determine the impact of these pressures, we examined spatial changes in three wetlands areas- Badore/Langbasa (BL), Festac/Iba/Ijegun (FI) and Ologe/Otto-Awori (OO) through field sample collection and analyses of surface water, sediments, air-water interface gas fluxes and vegetations. Surface water conductivity, total suspended solids (TSS), alkalinity, chloride, biological oxygen demand (BOD), nitrate, phosphate and heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Fe, Na, Mn, Pb, Cd, K and Ni) exhibited relative spatial stability while other water quality parameters varied significantly (P < 0.05) across the wetland areas. Also, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) contributed to most of the total dissolved solids (TDS) since only DIC correlated significantly with TDS (r = 0.889; P = 0.05, n = 12) and TS (r = 0.891; P = 0.05, n = 12), suggesting a strong capacity for carbon sequestration and carbon sink across the wetland areas. None of the encountered vegetation species are in the vulnerable category of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). There are indications of steady rise in greenhouse gas levels in Lagos since air CO2 value at BL have reached global threshold of 400 ppm with OO and FI closely approaching. We conclude that the Lagos wetland ecosystems, especially OO and FI still have some semblance of natural habitat. However, further destruction and unwise use of the resources could cause damage to physical, chemical, geological and biological processes in nature, which could result to grave socio-economic and cultural consequences to the local communities whose livelihood and lifestyle depend on these valued wetlands.

Illicit drugs and their metabolites in 36 rivers that drain into the Bohai Sea and north Yellow Sea, north China.

Illicit drugs and their metabolites have recently been recognized as an emerging group of contaminants due to their potential ecotoxicological impact in aquatic ecosystems. To date, information on the occurrence of these compounds in the aquatic environment of China remains limited. In this study, we collected surface water samples from 36 rivers in north China that discharge into the Bohai Sea and north Yellow Sea and measured the concentrations of amphetamine-like compounds, ketamines, cocainics, and opioids. The occurrence and spatial patterns of these substances show significant differences between the rivers and regions. Two designer drugs, methamphetamine (METH) and ketamine (KET), were the most abundant compounds detected in the entire set of samples (detection frequency of 92 and 69%). The concentrations of METH and KET ranged from <0.1 to 42.0ngL(-1) (mean = 4.53ngL(-1)) and <0.05 to 4.50ngL(-1) (mean = 0.49ngL(-1)), respectively. The high detection frequencies of METH and KET are consistent with the fact that they are the main illicit drugs consumed in China. The high concentrations of these illicit drugs and their metabolites were found in areas that have a high population density. The riverine input of total illicit drugs into the Bohai Sea and north Yellow Sea was estimated to be in the range of 684 to 1160kg per year.

18S rDNA dataset profiling microeukaryotic populations within Chicago area nearshore waters.

Despite their critical role in the aquatic food web and nutrient cycling, microeukaryotes within freshwater environments are under-studied. Herein we present the first high-throughput molecular survey of microeukaryotes within Lake Michigan. Every two weeks from May 13 to August 5, 2014, we collected surface water samples from the nearshore waters of four Chicago area beaches: Gillson Park, Montrose Beach, 57th Street Beach, and Calumet Beach. Four biological replicates were collected for each sampling date and location, resulting in 112 samples. Eighty-nine of these samples were surveyed through targeted sequencing of the V7 and V8 regions of the 18S rDNA gene. Both technical and biological replicates were sequenced and are included in this dataset. Raw sequence data is available via NCBI’s SRA database (BioProject PRJNA294919).

Nitrate contamination of riverbank filtrate at Srinagar, Uttarakhand, India: A case of geogenic mineralization

Summary In place of direct pumping, river bank filtration (RBF) is increasingly being used for collecting surface water for municipal supplies. However, as each site is different, every such scheme needs evaluation and adds to our knowledge about RBF. This work aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a well commissioned in May 2010 on the bank of River Alaknanda in Srinagar (Uttarakhand), India. The well water was monitored for coliform removal and mineral content with reference to the river and surrounding groundwater since the construction of the well. Study showed that the well water is much better in terms of bacteriological quality and turbidity, but is highly mineralized with respect to the river water. The ionic concentrations in the well water were comparable to the groundwater in the region. Stable isotope δ 2 H and δ 18 O values, however, showed that the well water is predominantly river bank filtrate. In addition, the water from the well has been containing unusually high concentrations of nitrate (53–138 mg/L)—much higher than permissible limit for drinking water supply while the river water had much lower concentrations (0.3–4.2 mg/L). Investigations were conducted on groundwater, wastewaters, soils, and rocks in the area to identify the source of excess nitrate. The results suggest the occurrence of phyllite and quartzite bedrocks as the origin of nitrate. These findings underline the need for extensive hydrogeochemical studies before designing a RBF scheme.

Survey of microbial populations within Lake Michigan nearshore waters at two Chicago public beaches.

Lake Michigan is a critical resource for the residents of Chicago, providing drinking water to its 9+ million area residents. Along Chicago׳s 26 miles of public beaches the populous urban environment and this freshwater environment meet. While city-led monitoring initiatives investigate pathogenic bacteria in these nearshore waters, very little is known about other microbial species present. We collected surface water samples from two Chicago public beaches – Montrose Beach and 57th Street Beach – every ten days from June 5 through August 4, 2013 as well as once in early Fall (October 4, 2013). Sixteen bacterial communities in total were surveyed through targeted sequencing of the V4 16S rRNA gene. Taxa were identified using Mothur. Raw sequence data is available via NCBI׳s SRA database (part of BioProject PRJNA245802). OTU calls for each read are also available at our online repository: www.lakemichiganmicrobes.com/bacteria/.

Analysis of the Environmental Challenges of Rural Areas in Guilan Province with Emphasis on Solid Waste (Case Study: Bandar Anzali, Rasht and Roudbar)

Analysis of the Environmental Challenges of Rural Areas in Guilan Province with Emphasis on Solid Waste (Case Study: Bandar Anzali, Rasht and Roudbar)

Assessment of microbial populations within Chicago area nearshore waters and interfaces with river systems.

The Chicago area locks separate and control water flow between the freshwaters of Lake Michigan and the network of Illinois waterways. Under extreme storm conditions, however, the locks are opened and storm waters, untreated waste, and runoff are released directly into the lake. These combined sewer overflow (CSO) events introduce microbes, viruses, and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous into nearshore waters which likely affect the native species. We collected surface water samples from four Chicago area beaches – Gillson Park, Montrose Beach, 57th Street Beach, and Calumet Beach – every two weeks from May 13 through August 5, 2014. Sampling was conducted with four biological replicates for each sampling date and location, resulting in 112 samples. Each community was surveyed through targeted sequencing of the V4 16S rRNA gene. Technical replicates were also sequenced and are included in this dataset. Taxa were identified using Mothur. Raw sequence data is available via NCBI׳s SRA database (part of BioProject PRJNA245802).

Survey of viral populations within Lake Michigan nearshore waters at four Chicago area beaches.

In comparison to the oceans, freshwater environments represent a more diverse community of microorganisms, exhibiting comparatively high levels of variability both temporally and spatially Maranger and Bird, Microb. Ecol. 31 (1996) 141–151. This level of variability is likely to extend to the world of viruses as well, in particular bacteria-infecting viruses (bacteriophages). Phages are known to influence bacterial diversity, and therefore key processes, in environmental niches across the globe Clokie et al., Bacteriophage 1 (2011) 31–45; Jacquet et al., Adv. Ocean Limn. 1 (2010) 97–141; Wilhelm and Suttle, Bioscience 49 (1999) 781–788; Bratback et al., Microb. Ecol. 28 (1994) 209–221. Despite their prevalence and likely critical role in freshwater environments, very few viral species have been characterized. Metagenomic approaches, however, have allowed for a glimpse into phage diversity. We collected surface water samples from four Chicago area beaches – Gillson Park, Montrose Beach, 57th Street Beach, and Calumet Beach – every two weeks from May 13 through August 5, 2014. Sampling was conducted with four biological replicates for each sampling date and location, resulting in 112 samples. DNA isolated from each of the individual samples for a given collection date/location was pooled together, with one exception – Calumet Beach on August 5, 2014 – in which each biological replicate was sequenced individually. Raw sequence data is available via NCBI’s SRA database (part of BioProject PRJNA248239).

Genetic diversity and temporal dynamics of phytoplankton viruses in East Lake, China.

Phytoplankton viruses are important components of aquatic ecosystems. However, their prevalence and genetic diversity in marine and freshwater systems are largely under estimated owing to the immense size of water bodies and limitations in virus discovery techniques. In this study, we conducted a 1-year survey of phytoplankton virus communities by collecting surface water monthly from an inland lake (East Lake) in China between May 2012 and April 2013. We examined four phytoplankton viruses, i.e., myoviruses, podoviruses, siphoviruses, and phycodnaviruses, and seven sets of primers were used to target conserved genes within these four species. In this year-long investigation, a total of 358 different virus-related sequences from four virus families were obtained. All virus families were detected in all months, except for cyanopodoviruses, which were only identified during eight of the 12 months surveyed. Moreover, virus abundance and diversity changed dynamically over time. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the majority of viral sequences from East Lake, China displayed distinct clustering patterns compared with published sequences. These results supported the existence of a highly diverse and unique phytoplankton virus community in East Lake, China.