BIOLOGICAL
How we determine the biodiversity and risk to living organisms in our water
Water bodies are not just fluid landscapes; they are teeming with life, both visible and hidden. At WaterVue, our commitment to water quality extends to understanding the intricate web of biological parameters that inhabit aquatic ecosystems.
In our BIOLOGICAL data layer we gather vital biological parameters we measure, including Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB), Waterborne Pathogens, Aquatic Plants, Microbial Communities (bacteria, viruses), and Bioindicators (macroinvertebrates, algae). We also monitor fish integrity including at risk species and invasive species.
What is living in our water?
Our quest to protect water quality encompasses a range of biological parameters.
Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB) can devastate aquatic ecosystems and pose risks to human and animal health.
Waterborne Pathogens are potential sources of waterborne diseases, necessitating their vigilant monitoring.
Aquatic plants play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and oxygen production.
Microbial Communities, including bacteria and viruses, can indicate the health of water bodies and the potential presence of contaminants.
Fish integrity, including measuring economic value and understanding at risk species and invasive species.
Bioindicators, such as macroinvertebrates and algae, provide valuable insights into overall ecosystem health.
Measuring these biological parameters is paramount for several reasons.
- Harmful Algal Blooms can release toxins harmful to aquatic life and human health, making early detection crucial.
- Monitoring Waterborne Pathogens helps prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
- Aquatic plants influence oxygen levels and provide habitats for aquatic organisms.
- Microbial Communities serve as indicators of water quality and potential contamination.
- Fish integrity can determine at risk or growing resources by measuring biodiversity in our water
- Bioindicators, in particular, offer a holistic view of ecosystem health, allowing us to assess the overall well-being of water bodies.
How we measure
At WaterVue, we employ a multidisciplinary approach to measure biological parameters, combining traditional methodologies with cutting-edge technology.
Our use of eDNA (environmental DNA) technology allows us to detect the presence of specific organisms with high precision and sensitivity.
We complement this with traditional techniques such as water sampling and microscopy to assess microbial communities and bioindicators.
This comprehensive approach ensures that we capture a holistic view of biological parameters in water.
