SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1973
STP34728S

Use of Artificial Substrate Samplers to Assess Water Pollution

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The benthic macro-invertebrate fauna and the benthic microand macrophytic flora are important parts of the aquatic ecosystem for measurement of the impact of pollution. Artificial substrate samplers provide a means of sampling in many locations where other samplers are not effective. The historical development and use of artificial substrate samplers is discussed, including the major types of apparatus developed. Three main macroinvertebrate samplers, the rock-filled basket, the multi-plate sampler, and the steel tray (Beak) type, are discussed and evaluated critically in light of practical and theoretical considerations. The results obtained with these samplers are compared to the results obtained by other methods, including Surber sampler, dip net, and Petersen grab. Artificial substrate samplers have proven that they obtain an equally diverse fauna with less variability between samples. Periphyton samplers usually consist of glass or plastic plates, with differing methods of suspension. Marine intertidal and subtidal communities may be sampled by fiberglass plates bolted to rocks or building blocks. It is concluded that artificial substrate samplers are an effective method of biological monitoring and evaluation of water pollution.

Author Information

Beak, TW
T. W. Beak Consultants Limited, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada
Griffing, TC
T. W. Beak Consultants Limited, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada
Appleby, AG
T. W. Beak Consultants Limited, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada
Price: $25.00
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Details
Developed by Committee: D19
Pages: 227–241
DOI: 10.1520/STP34728S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4626-6
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0114-2