VCE Biology Unit 1 Major Report

Summary:
In order to determine whether the water quality is acceptable for agricultural, recreational and domestic use, ten local sites were chosen and sampled at fortnightly internals. Macro-invertebrate and algal content, and the amount of vegetation present at each site were assessed. The samples were analysed for conductivity, pH, turbidity, dissolved solids, oxygen, phosphorus nitrogen, and the results entered on the NEXUS statewide database. The results were compared with those from other areas.

It was found that the water quality in the lake was generally acceptable, although some sites showed unacceptably high levels of pollutants at times - these sites need to be monitored. Sites further upstream showed lower levels of pollutants, and there were a correspondingly greater amount and variety of macro-invertebrates. The amount and diversity of vegetation in the surrounding area was also greater, showing that there is a relationship between water quality and types and quantities of organisms present.