Increased water chemical contamination
Related links:
Increased water nutrient concentrations
Increased water faecal contamination
Impact
Here chemical contamination refers to the presence of harmful toxicants, substances that could cause adverse effects in a living organism above certain concentrations in the environment. Potential toxicants include many metals and metalloids, such as: organic sulphur compounds, industrial chemicals, organochloride pesticides (e.g. DDT), organophosphorous pesticides, pyrethroids, herbicides and fungicides (OzEstuaries, 2005). Chemical contamination can result from poorly timed or over application of chemicals, poor chemical storage, water run-off carrying contaminants into waterways and many other causes. Chemical contamination is an important determinant of water quality for human uses.
Suggested indicators: Nitrates in water*, Phosphates in water*, Farm chemicals in water*
Increased water chemical contamination may be associated with:
| Potential associated impacts | Suggested indicators |
| Changed vegetation (aquatic and terrestrial) composition and condition |
|
|
Altered viability, growth, reproductive success, competitive abilities and deformities in fauna species (aquatic and terrestrial) |
|
| Chemical accumulation in sediments | |
|
Chemical accumulation in biological tissues causing health risks to consumers (including humans) of aquatic organisms, e.g. fish |
* Yet to be developed
| Copyright | Disclaimer | Privacy | Last updated 27 August 2008.
© The State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Water) 2008.
Other languages