USGS WRIR 03–4331
| Protocol Name | Biological Assessment of Streams in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Area, Indiana, 1999–2001 | |
|---|---|---|
| Citation Information | Voelker, D.C., 2003, Biological Assessment of Streams in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Area, Indiana, 1999–2001: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 03-4331, 48 p. | |
| Title | Biological Assessment of Streams in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Area, Indiana, 1999–2001 | |
| Author | Voelker, D.C. | |
| Publication Year | 2003 | |
| Abstract | During 1999–2001, benthic invertebrates and fish were sampled to describe biological communities in the White River and selected tributaries in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Area in Indiana. Twelve sites (six on the White River and six on tributaries) were sampled biannually for benthic invertebrates and annually for fish. The information complements water chemistry data collected by the Indianapolis Department of Public Works in the study area.
This report describes the abundance and diversity of benthic-invertebrate and fish communities from 12 sites in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Area in Indiana, based on data collected during 1999–2001. Six sites were sampled on the White River and an additional six sites were sampled on selected tributaries in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Area. Results of the study provide an assessment of stream health in this urban area. The data complement water-chemistry data collected by DPW in the study area. The methods of study are described and the collected data are presented in tables and graphs to compare changes at and among sites over the 3-year study period. The report evaluates data, using indices to assess the general health of the aquatic environment. Habitat conditions at sample sites are evaluated, using a Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index (QHEI) developed by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA). Benthic-invertebrate communities are assessed with the Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) Index, Hilsenhoff Biotic Index (HBI), and Invertebrate Community Index (ICI). Fish communities are assessed with Indices of Biotic Integrity (IBIs). Biological indices are described, and the results of the analyses are presented. Historical benthic invertebrate data from three USGS studies conducted between 1981 and 1996 are compared with data collected for this study, along with fish data previously collected in the White River Basin. | |
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