The rivers of North East Scotland: physicochemical characteristics

摘要: Multivariate analysis of spatial variation in 15 physicochemical characteristics grouped the seven major north-east rivers into two sets — highland and lowland rivers. The formed a continuum that could be further divided with low concentrations dissolved materials including Spey Dee (full rivers), more variable group higher Don, Deveron Lossie (intermediate rivers) emphasising diversity river types classically described as highland. was differentiated from other intermediate by lower oxygen concentration pH. differences physicochemistry between were consistent catchment geology, soil type, climate, land use. large amounts material high nutrient status Ythan Ugie reflected proportion their catchments under agriculture, acidity its forest. small attributable to slow weathering acidic rocks acid soils catchments, volume flows these relative others. greater summer during base accomparied an increase phosphate Oxygen saturation increased presumably result photosynthetic activity. Marked declines silica thought significant diatom growth rivers, particularly summer.