Application of the benthic index of biotic integrity to environmental monitoring in Chesapeake Bay

摘要: The Chesapeake Bay benthic index of biotic integrity (B-IBI) was developed to assess community health and environmental quality in Bay. B-IBI provides monitoring programs with a uniform tool which characterize bay-wide condition the A probability-based design permits unbiased annual estimates areal degradation within its tributaries quantifiable precision. However, greatest interest managers is identification problem areas most need restoration. Here we apply data collected since 1994 by Program segment water depth. We used new classification system that improves reliability degradation. Estimates were produced for 67 segments. Greatest found are known experience hypoxia or show toxic contamination, such as mesohaline portion Potomac River, Patapsco Maryland mainstem. Logistic regression models revealed increased probability degraded benthos depth lower Nanticoke York Our assessment provided greater resolution relative than previously available, helped define extent