what indicators can be used to measure water quality

Water is a fundamental requirement for all living organisms on Earth, including humans. It is essential to maintain its quality for both human and environmental health. Water sources are becoming more precarious in terms of access and quality, making it even more important to assess water quality regularly. But, what indicators can be used to measure water quality? In this article, we will explore five indicators used to measure water quality, and how they can impact human health and the environment.

- Physical Indicators of Water Quality

Physical indicators are used to assess the characteristics of water that can be observed, such as temperature, clarity, and colour. Physical indicators are indications of environmental water quality, and changes can cause substantial impacts on the aquatic ecosystem. An increase in water temperature can lead to a decrease in dissolved oxygen, while turbidity or cloudiness, caused by sediments, can block light that aquatic plants need for photosynthesis.

- Chemical Indicators of Water Quality

Chemical indicators are helpful in assessing the presence and amount of various substances like nutrients, oxygen, and pH levels, and can be detectable through lab tests. Chemically, the most critical aspect of water quality is the concentration of various substances, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, that support the growth of algae and phytoplankton, which can lead to harmful algal blooms or even eutrophication (a condition in which a water body becomes overgrown with algae or plants that rob oxygen, suffocating other aquatic life).

- Biological Indicators of Water Quality

Biological indicators of water quality are organisms that live in water and can be used to assess water quality. These organisms, such as fish, insects, and plankton, are sensitive to the various changes in water chemistry and most susceptible to damage from pollution. Biological indicators provide a more accurate measure of water quality over time, and variations in the composition can reveal changes in water quality trends.

- Human Health in Water Quality Indicators

In some cases, water quality can pose a significant risk to human health, particularly if water is contaminated. For example, waterborne diseases that are caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites like cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis, can all be caused due to poor water quality. In addition, the presence of harmful chemicals or radiation can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, lung problems, skin irritation and even stomach cramps.

- Environmental Health in Water Quality Indicators

Environmental health can have adverse effects on the ecology of a water body. Toxic substances, such as pesticides and heavy metals, can contaminate surface water and ground water, threatening not only the organisms but wildlife that rely on aquatic ecosystems. Increased temperature can also be problematic for cold water fish species like trout, which thrive in colder waters. However, warmer water temperatures can accommodate warmer water species and lead to the prevalence of invasive species.

In conclusion, water quality is vital for human health and the environment, and monitoring it is vital for ensuring its sustainability. The indicators that can be used to measure water quality range from physical properties in the visible domain to biological measures that are risk-based. It is essential that we pay attention to our water resources by monitoring and assessing its quality and taking necessary steps to prevent further contamination or degradation of our environment.