Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module students should:
- have acquired knowledge of basic concepts in freshwater ecology,
- be able to confidently design or review a monitoring programme to detect potential impacts of land-use activities on water quality,
- have basic knowledge of methodologies for collection and processing of water and biological samples,
- have ability to interpret biological and chemical water-quality data,
- have sufficient knowledge to read and communicate water quality information in reports,
- appreciate the requirement of the Water Framework Directive (WFD),
- recognise the ecological basis of the WFD requirements,
- be able to source and review freshwater research literature and
- work as a team to compile reports.
Indicative Module Content:
Overview of water resources in Ireland and water quality challenges
Freshwater habitats – physical and biological components
The Water Framework Directive (WFD)
WFD cont. typological classification & reference conditions
WFD cont. monitoring and programme of measures
WFD Metrics & Risk Assessment
Hydrochemical characteristics – an introduction
Environmental Pollutants: Phosphorus
Environmental Pollutants: Nitrogen
Environmental Pollutants: Sediment
Forest-mediated acidification
Environmental Pollutants: Heavy metals
Environmental Pollutants: Contaminants from highway drainage
Bioassessment to detect environmental pollutants and evaluate water quality
Introduction to biological indicators
Key concepts
Range of biological indicators in use
Sampling methods
Approaches to analyses of biological data (unimetric, multimetric & multivariate)
Calculation of water quality metrics including biotic indices
Application of species traits to determine water quality
Other analyses (e.g. use of stable isotopes)
Designing monitoring programmes