A dynamic model using monitoring data and watershed characteristics to project fish tissue mercury concentrations in stream systems

摘要: A complex interplay of factors determines the degree bioaccumulation Hg in fish any particular basin. Although certain watershed characteristics have been associated with higher or lower rates, relationships between these are poorly understood. To add to this understanding, a dynamic model was built examine stream systems. The follows from water column, through microbial conversion and subsequent concentration, food web piscivorous fish. calibrated 7 basins Kentucky further evaluated by comparing output sites in, proximal to, Ohio River Valley, an underrepresented region literature. Water quality basin were inputs into model, tissue concentrations generic trophic level 3, 3.5, 4 output. Regulatory monitoring data used calibrate evaluate model. Mean average prediction error for 26%, whereas mean evaluation 51%. Variability within natural systems can be substantial quantified analysis US Geological Survey National Fish Database. This pointed need more systematic sampling tissue. Analysis indicated that parameters had greatest impact on influenced system at several points. These included forested wetlands coverage nutrient levels. Factors less sensitive modified only 1 point unfiltered total input portion is developed. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 709–722. © 2012 SETAC