Environmental Contaminants Research
Inland Aquatic Systems

Pollutants can enter aquatic systems through numerous pathways, including effluent discharge, run-off, and other non-point sources; contaminant spills; and airborne deposition. Contaminants found in inland aquatic systems commonly include a wide range of metallic and organic compounds. Many of these contaminants can accumulate in aquatic sediments. Once bound to the sediment, these pollutants can act as a source of contamination. On-going studies by researchers around the world suggest that contaminated sediments are among the most significant sources of non-point source pollution to inland aquatic systems and pose one of the largest risks to the aquatic environment.

Many contaminants are able to accumulate in the tissues of aquatic organisms. Pollutants are either transferred directly into the circulatory system from the water column to the organisms through the gills or body surfaces in a process called 'bioconcentration', or through food in a process called 'biomagnification'. While the accumulation of significant amounts of contaminants may contribute to chronic effects in the organisms affected, it also has implications for human health as many species that are consumed by humans also live in contaminated areas.

Science Services is currently engaged in the following research related to contaminants in inland aquatic systems.

• Ecological Effects of Riparian Development Along Wisconsin Lakes
• Effects of Contaminant Exposure on Top Predator Populations