Benthic macroinvertebrates and sediment characteristics of Hamilton Harbour in 1984, and changes between 1964 and 1984 / by Cam Portt ... [et al.]. : Fs97-4/3056E-PDF

A survey of the benthic macroinvertebrates and sediment chemistry in Hamilton Harbour was conducted in 1984. Results were compared to a 1964 survey done at the same sites, prior to extensive efforts to reduce the nutrient and contaminant loadings to the harbour. A large toxic zone, devoid of all macroinvertebrates, in 1964 had shrunk to one site in 1984. Concentrations of metals especially Fe and Zn, and PAH levels remained high in the sediments. Invertebrate density had increased throughout the harbour between 1964 and 1984. Average oligochaete density increased by an order of magnitude from 5000 m-2 in 1964 to over 45,600 in 1984. The proportion of pollution tolerant worm species decreased. Although Sphaeriidae clams and several chironomid genera had appeared in the harbour by 1984, few other benthic taxa were present. Low oxygen levels in the deepest areas and the elevated sediment contaminants continued to restrict the composition of the benthic fauna.

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