An Integrated assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHS) and benthic macroinvertebrates of Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA
Clements WH and Cox ON. 2006. An Integrated assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHS) and benthic macroinvertebrates of Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA. Colorado State University. Fort Collins, Colorado
This research evaluated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHS) from surface sediments and their potential effects on benthic macroinvertebrate communities of Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA. In general, our results from 2003-2004 showed that PAH levels were significantly elevated at all marina sampling locations. However, PAH contamination was generally limited to marina locations and decreased with distance from areas of highest boat activities. The actual PAH concentrations at marina sites were either similar to or slightly less than reported threshold concentrations known to affect benthic communities. Analysis of profile plots for different types of PAHs strongly indicate a pyrogenic source of these materials, indicating they most likely originated from combustion of hydrocarbons. Because PAHs concentrations measured at marina sites were similar to threshold toxicity levels, our surveys of benthic communities showed only moderate effects, and these were generally limited to effects on species known to be sensitive to PAHs (e.g., the amphipod Diporea spp). Similarly, results of our sediment toxicity tests showed little evidence of acute toxicity. We believe that these results demonstrate that PAH contamination at Isle Royale National Park is limited to areas immediately adjacent to marinas. Because the level of contamination at these sites is similar to reported threshold toxicity values, we recommend that NPS adopt a monitoring program of PAHs and benthic communities designed to assess potential long term trends.
- Type
- Unpublished Report
- Authors
- Clements, William; Cox, Oliver
- Date of Issue
- 2006-05-31
- Publisher
- Colorado State University
- Units
- ISRO
- Keywords
- Atmospheric Deposition, Benthic Macroinvertebrates, Carcinogens, Contaminants, Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, Mutagens, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Sampling, Sediments