Using historical data, expert judgement and multivariate analysis in assessing reference conditions and benthic ecological status, according to the European Water Framework Directive.

摘要: The European Water Framework Directive (WFD) establishes a framework for the protection and improvement of estuarine coastal waters, trying to achieve 'good surface water status at latest 15 years after date entry into force this Directive'. One biological elements that should be analysed is benthos and, as such, WFD normative definitions describe aspects benthic communities must included in ecological assessment body. Therefore, it essential include, assessment, different metrics address those parameters identified each classes. In contribution use AMBI, richness diversity, combined with use, further development, factor analysis together discriminant analysis, presented an objective tool (named here M-AMBI) assessing quality status. This requires previous classification bodies typologies, definition reference conditions; undertaken using historical data, expert judgement multivariate analysis. study has been by examining changes Basque Country, over last decade, case-study, demonstrate accuracy potential these methodologies.