An alternative biological water quality index

Journal article

Dussart, G., Mycock, E. R. and Scott, D., 1980. An alternative biological water quality index. Speculations In Science and Technology. 3 (2), pp. 157-165.
AuthorsDussart, G., Mycock, E. R. and Scott, D.,
Abstract

A biological water quality index based on the wholly subjective assessment of stream biota is proposed. Biological sample data from a wide variety of sites in the North West of England were assessed for productivity (Np), diversity (ND) and quality (NQ). Performance of these indices was examined. ND was well correlated with objective indices in routine use and showed similar percentage errors. There were good correlations between operator and similarities in both mean levels and ranges between operators. It is proposed that this approach is worthy of consideration as a preliminary means of assessing and reporting quality for whatever purpose as defined by the user. It could serve as an adjunct to more objective methods, but would not replace them.

KeywordsWater quality; Water quality index; Subjectivity; Validation
Year1980
JournalSpeculations In Science and Technology
Journal citation3 (2), pp. 157-165
PublisherSpringer
ISSN1573-9309
Related URLhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/336720870_An_alternative_water_quality_index
Publication dates
Print02 Jan 1980
Publication process dates
Deposited28 Jul 2025
Accepted author manuscript
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Restricted
Output statusPublished
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