Indicators of pollution

Monitoring pollution scientists monitor pollution of water, air and land. Some are researchers at universities International organisations Governments Local authorities Power companies

Ways to monitor pollution Data recorders:- measure changes in concentrations of particular chemicals. Plants and animals (indicator organisms):- scientists look for longer-term effects of pollution.

Animals as pollution indicators Invertebrate animals are good indicators of water pollution. Some can live onve in very polluted water others can only live in clean water

Clean water Stone fly nymph Mayfly nymph Freshwater shrimp Pond skater Rat-tailed maggot Sludge worm Very polluted water

lichens Lichens are sensitive to the amount of sulphur dioxide, some species more than others. The species present and number of different species give clues about air pollution. Lichens grow slowly, they indicate long-term purity of the air. Air pollution is also monitored daily with chemical tests

high low Crusty lichen Shrubby lichen Leafy lichen

questions Give 3 reasons why we monitor pollution Why do power companies employ scientists to check air pollution. Which type of lichen would you expect to find in a city centre? Explain your answer What types of lichen would you expect to find in the country side? explain your answer

What you need to remember!! Indicators of pollution We can use_________ organisms to show how much pollution there is, including_________ as indicators of air pollution. Invertebrate animals as indicators of___________ ___________ lichens Water pollution indicator